Project Engineer, Engineering Design & Technologists

Role Overview

Job Title:

Project Engineer

Location:

South Shields (office-based)

Reports To:

Commercial Manager Security Clearance:
Required (to SC level)

UK Docks is seeking a motivated and organised Project Engineer to support our project department. This role plays a critical part in the planning and delivery of engineering projects for Royal Navy vessels. The Project Engineer will take ownership of the technical aspects of project delivery—working closely with internal departments, OEMs, contractors, and MOD stakeholders to develop, refine, and implement engineering solutions.

The role reports directly to the Commercial Manager as part of the commercial team and is full‑time, based in South Shields, UK. The ideal candidate will have strong project engineering skills, a solid foundation in marine, mechanical or electrical systems and a working knowledge of naval operations and engineering standards.

• Develop, review, refine and prioritise multiple technical scopes of work in collaboration with suppliers, OEMs, and the customer.
• Oversee the engineering implementation of upgrades and modifications onboard vessels.
• Lead technical elements during project planning, ensuring all specifications and deliverables are clear and achievable.
• Provide engineering input and oversight during contractor and OEM activities, both on‑site and remotely.
• Liaise with MOD representatives to ensure technical alignment and compliance with defence standards.
• Deliver projects from initial request through to execution and close out, ensuring all deliverables are met.
• Support the preparation of detailed work packages.
• Monitor progress, resolve technical issues, and ensure adherence to safety and quality requirements.
• Maintain accurate technical documentation and contribute to project reporting.
• Assist in cost and resource estimation, change control, and continuous improvement activities.
• Attend project client meetings as the lead engineer, being supported by the wider UKDocks team.
• Proactively assist the client to eliminate project problems and/or malfunctions to ensure that there are no consequential impacts to the vessel's operational capability or availability.

• HNC/HND or Degree in Mechanical, Marine, or Electrical Engineering (or similar discipline).
• Proven experience in a project engineering role, ideally within defence or marine sectors.
• Strong technical problem‑solving skills with a hands‑on understanding of engineering systems.
• Ability to manage multiple technical work streams and liaise with diverse stakeholders.
• Familiarity with engineering project life cycles, maintenance planning, and OEM coordination.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, SharePoint, Teams).

• Experience supporting Royal Navy, RFA, or MOD‑managed assets.
• Knowledge of Classification Society, Flag State, and defence‑specific regulations.
• Project management training or certifications (e.g. APM, Prince2, or equivalent).

• 23 days leave per year, rising to 25 after 4 years’ service, plus bank holidays.
• Holiday buy/sell scheme.
• Core hours (flexible working).
• Free parking.
• Company‑matched pension scheme.