Lead Engineer - Builds

As a Lead Engineer - New Builds within the Fleet Investments department, you play a key role in the technical realization of DEME’s new build vessels and asset development projects. You are responsible for coordinating and steering the engineering scope from concept development through to detailed design and construction support, ensuring the technical solution delivered is fully aligned with the initial requirements, meets performance expectations, and is realized within the defined timeline.

Depending on the project size, you either act as the right hand of the Project Manager on large, complex projects, or take full ownership of smaller engineering projects from A to Z.

• Lead and coordinate engineering activities for new build vessels and asset development projects, ensuring technical consistency and quality throughout the project lifecycle.
• Act as the primary counterpart of the Project Manager, translating project requirements into feasible engineering solutions and ensuring delivery in line with scope, timing, and performance expectations.
• Coordinate multidisciplinary engineering activities across domains such as naval architecture, structural engineering, mechanical systems, electrical drives, and control & automation systems.
• Manage and steer both internal stakeholders and external partners (e.g. design offices and suppliers), ensuring alignment and timely delivery of engineering outputs.
• Ensure that the developed design reflects the operational and technical requirements and can be successfully translated into execution during construction.
• Identify technical risks and interface challenges early on, and drive mitigation actions to safeguard project objectives.
• Support the transition from design to construction by actively engaging with shipyards and contractors, providing clarification and ensuring proper understanding of the design intent.
• Take ownership of smaller projects, managing the full engineering scope independently, including planning and coordination of resources.
• Guide and coach a team of engineers (typically 2 to 10), ensuring effective collaboration and high‑quality deliverables.
• Maintain a structured approach to engineering planning and follow‑up, ensuring milestones are met and interfaces between disciplines are properly managed.

• Master’s degree in Engineering (Civil or Industrial Engineer) with a strong interest in multidisciplinary engineering projects.
• Minimum 10 years of relevant experience in complex engineering environments; this role is not suited for entry‑level candidates.
• Broad technical affinity ("polytechnical mindset") and ability to understand, connect, and challenge multiple engineering disciplines.
• Experience in coordinating engineering teams or projects, with a strong focus on integration across technical domains.
• Strong communication skills, comfortable interacting with both technical experts and project stakeholders.
• Capability to lead a small team of engineers and guide external partners towards common objectives.
• Willingness to travel occasionally to shipyards and partners within Europe and internationally to support project execution.
• Combines analytical thinking with a hands‑on approach and a strong sense of ownership.

• Extensive mobility program for a healthy work‑life balance.
• Permanent training track which allows you to develop yourself personally and professionally.
• Stimulatory, innovative workplace with numerous growth opportunities.
• People‑oriented environment with an interactive health program and a focus on employee wellbeing.