Deputy Chief Engineer

Deputy Chief Engineer

Location: Dorset Innovation Park, Winfrith Newburgh, Dorchester
Employment Type: Permanent

TKMS ATLAS UK is looking for a Deputy Chief Engineer to join the Submarine Systems Division, supporting the delivery of innovative underwater systems for the Royal Navy and export customers.

Working alongside the Divisional Chief Engineer, Head of Delivery, Head of Business Development and Product Managers, you will be responsible for the application of the Engineering Lifecycle across the division. You will help shape the technical direction of products and systems, ensuring that engineering activities align with the Integrated Business Plan.

Reporting to the Submarine Systems Divisional Chief Engineer, you will act as a System Design Authority and provide technical leadership across the division.

As Deputy Chief Engineer, you will play a key role in shaping engineering solutions, supporting complex programmes and developing the technical capabilities of the Submarine Systems Division.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Chairing technical reviews across projects and activities within the division, acting as an alternative to the Chief Engineer where required.
• Defining and analysing mission, business and operational problems to identify effective engineering solutions.
• Reviewing operational concepts and identifying potential solution options.
• Owning the approach to the design of equipment and systems across the division.
• Reviewing and advising on product system specifications and supporting System Design Authorities with complex customer programmes.
• Supporting Product Managers with opportunity roadmaps and owning the solution and technology roadmap.
• Monitoring market trends and emerging technologies to identify opportunities for product development and innovation.
• Reviewing and approving architectural designs and providing guidance on manufacture-or-buy decisions throughout the product lifecycle.
• Representing TKMS ATLAS UK at relevant exhibitions and conferences to promote the business and stay informed of emerging technologies.

You will also act as a line manager and team leader for System Design Authorities within the division. Staff mentoring, development and resource allocation will be important aspects of the role, ensuring the division has the capability to develop, deliver and support its products.

We are looking for a systems thinker who can understand the broader operational context of customer requirements and user needs, with the ability to apply engineering expertise across complex systems and product life cycles.

You will ideally have:

• Experience across aspects of the engineering lifecycle, including systems design, systems modelling and analysis, requirements management, test and acceptance, production or in-service support.
• A strong systems engineering background, with the ability to define solutions and assess complex technical challenges.
• Experience in one or more relevant technical areas, such as:
  • Sonar or seismic arrays.
  • Sensor data, signal processing, cabling or telemetry.
  • Real-time systems and decision support systems.
  • Towed arrays, cable handling or electric actuation systems.
  • Weapon and countermeasure systems.
  • Acoustic, RF or safety systems.
  • Physical and system modelling and simulation.
  • Industrial automation and control systems.
  • Future submarine design concepts and technologies.
• Experience providing technical leadership and guidance across engineering teams or complex programmes.
• Strong communication skills, with the confidence to engage with internal stakeholders, customers and technical teams.
• A collaborative leadership style, with a commitment to mentoring and developing engineering talent.
• An innovative mindset, with the ability to challenge conventional thinking and drive effective engineering solutions.

With a reputation for providing innovative underwater systems for the Royal Navy (RN) and export customers, TKMS ATLAS UK operates from our Headquarters on the Jurassic Coast in Dorset. Through science, engineering and R&D we convert data into information, knowledge and capabilities that challenge the status quo, and offer winning advantage at the frontline.

Our people are at the heart of our success. An open and stimulating workspace empowers and encourages our people to be creative and act with…