Shipbuilding & ship machinery Jobs in Uk

Interested Job Profile

Why Work in the Shipbuilding & Ship Machinery in UK

1. Strong Maritime Heritage

The UK has a rich shipbuilding history with world-renowned ports and naval engineering, making it a globally respected center for maritime innovation and tradition.

2. Government Support & Investment

Ongoing investments through government initiatives like the National Shipbuilding Strategy (NSS) promote job growth, modernization, and sustainable practices in shipbuilding.

3. Cutting-Edge Technology

The UK industry incorporates advanced technologies like automation, AI, and green propulsion systems, offering opportunities for skilled workers in high-tech roles.

4. Global Career Opportunities

Working in this sector can open doors to international collaborations, naval contracts, and shipping projects around the world due to the UK's global maritime connections.

5. Job Stability & Career Growth

With demand for naval vessels, ferries, offshore support ships, and eco-friendly vessels rising, the industry provides stable employment and long-term career prospects.

6. Contribution to Green Shipping

The UK is at the forefront of decarbonizing maritime transport, offering roles in R&D, engineering, and retrofitting that contribute to global environmental goals.

Creative Shipbuilding & Ship Machinery in UK for International Candidates

1. Gateway to Maritime Innovation
The UK is a leader in creative and sustainable ship design. International candidates can contribute to cutting-edge projects involving eco-friendly ships, autonomous vessels, and smart ship machinery.

2. Collaboration Across Borders
UK shipyards and engineering firms actively collaborate with international partners. This opens up opportunities for candidates worldwide to work in multidisciplinary teams and share advanced maritime knowledge.

3. Access to World-Class Facilities
International professionals gain exposure to state-of-the-art dry docks, ship repair yards, and testing centers. These facilities offer a hands-on experience in modern shipbuilding processes and machinery systems.

4. Opportunities in Niche Specializations
From advanced propulsion systems to innovative hull design and marine robotics, the UK offers roles in specialized fields, perfect for candidates looking to grow in highly technical areas.

5. Cultural and Professional Exchange
Working in the UK’s shipbuilding sector means engaging with a diverse workforce. It fosters a strong environment for learning, exchange of ideas, and development of global maritime practices.

6. A Launchpad for International Careers
Experience in the UK maritime industry is highly valued around the world. It provides a strong foundation for international candidates to build a global career in shipbuilding and marine engineering.

Types of Shipbuilding & Ship Machinery Jobs in UK

1. Naval Architect

Designs the structure, form, and stability of ships and offshore structures using CAD tools and engineering principles.

2. Marine Engineer

Focuses on propulsion systems, engines, and onboard mechanical systems including pumps, hydraulics, and HVAC.

3. Ship Design Engineer

Works on the detailed design of ship components, often collaborating with naval architects and project teams.

4. Welding and Fabrication Technician

Involved in the assembly of metal ship structures using various welding techniques and tools.

5. Electrical and Electronics Engineer

Installs and maintains shipboard electrical systems including power distribution, navigation, and automation systems.

6. Project Manager – Shipbuilding

Oversees construction timelines, budget, safety, and coordination among engineering, design, and fabrication teams.

7. Quality Assurance Inspector

Ensures that all ship components and systems meet regulatory and safety standards through testing and inspections.

8. Marine Systems Integration Specialist

Integrates machinery and control systems, ensuring they function together seamlessly across the vessel.

9. Supply Chain and Procurement Officer

Manages the acquisition of ship parts, machinery, and materials needed for vessel construction and repair.

10. Ship Repair and Maintenance Engineer

Handles the assessment, repair, and upgrading of ships in dockyards and maintenance facilities.

Average Salary of Top 20 Job Profile of Shipbuilding & Ship Machinery in UK

Job Profile	Average Salary (GBP)	USD (Approx.)	INR (Approx.)
Naval Architect	£48,000	$60,960	₹5,13,600
Marine Engineer	£46,000	$58,420	₹4,92,200
Ship Design Engineer	£45,000	$57,150	₹4,81,500
Welding and Fabrication Technician	£32,000	$40,640	₹3,42,400
Electrical and Electronics Engineer	£43,000	$54,610	₹4,60,100
Project Manager – Shipbuilding	£60,000	$76,200	₹6,42,000
Quality Assurance Inspector	£38,000	$48,260	₹4,06,600
Marine Systems Integration Specialist	£47,000	$59,690	₹5,02,900
Supply Chain and Procurement Officer	£41,000	$52,070	₹4,38,700
Ship Repair and Maintenance Engineer	£42,000	$53,340	₹4,49,400
Structural Engineer – Marine	£44,000	$55,880	₹4,71,200
CAD Technician – Ship Design	£34,000	$43,180	₹3,63,800
Marine Surveyor	£50,000	$63,500	₹5,35,000
R&D Engineer – Marine Technology	£52,000	$66,040	₹5,56,400
Logistics Coordinator – Shipyard	£35,000	$44,450	₹3,74,500
Safety Officer – Shipbuilding	£37,000	$46,990	₹3,95,900
CNC Machinist – Marine Components	£31,000	$39,370	₹3,31,700
Paint and Coatings Specialist	£30,000	$38,100	₹3,21,000
HVAC Specialist – Marine	£40,000	$50,800	₹4,28,000
Apprentice Engineer – Shipyard	£22,000	$27,940	₹2,35,400

Job Eligibility to Work in Shipbuilding & Ship Machinery in UK for International Job Applicants.

Eligibility Criteria	Details
Educational Qualification	Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in relevant fields: Marine Engineering, Naval Architecture, Mechanical/Electrical Engineering, etc.
Professional Certifications	Chartered Engineer (CEng), Incorporated Engineer (IEng), or equivalent (preferred but not always required).
Work Experience	2–5 years minimum for most mid-level roles; graduate/apprentice schemes are available for entry-level positions.
Language Proficiency	Proficiency in English is mandatory; IELTS (score 6.0–7.5) or equivalent may be required for visa or job.
Visa Requirement	Skilled Worker Visa sponsored by a UK employer; job must be on the UK's Shortage Occupation List or meet eligibility criteria.
Job Offer from UK Employer	Must secure a valid job offer from a licensed UK sponsor employer before applying for a visa.
Skills in Demand	CAD design, welding/fabrication, marine systems integration, propulsion systems, quality assurance, project management.
Background Checks	Clean criminal record and possibly a security clearance for defense-related or naval projects.
Medical Fitness	Required for some roles, especially onboard or in physically demanding environments.
Adaptability to Work Environment	Ability to work in shipyards, dockyards, or offshore sites under safety protocols.

General Roles and Responsibilities in Shipbuilding & Ship Machinery Jobs in UK with 20 Job Profiles

Job Profile	General Roles and Responsibilities
1. Naval Architect	Designs hulls and structures of ships; ensures stability, strength, and hydrodynamic efficiency.
2. Marine Engineer	Develops and maintains propulsion systems, engines, and onboard mechanical equipment.
3. Ship Design Engineer	Creates detailed design plans for ship systems using CAD and engineering software.
4. Welding & Fabrication Technician	Welds and assembles ship components following safety and engineering standards.
5. Electrical/Electronics Engineer	Installs and maintains electrical systems like lighting, navigation, and automation onboard.
6. Project Manager – Shipbuilding	Oversees shipbuilding projects, timelines, budgets, and cross-functional coordination.
7. QA/QC Inspector	Conducts inspections, testing, and documentation to ensure regulatory compliance and quality.
8. Marine Systems Integration Engineer	Integrates mechanical, electrical, and control systems for seamless vessel operation.
9. Procurement & Supply Chain Officer	Sources and manages components, materials, and equipment needed for ship construction or repair.
10. Ship Repair & Maintenance Engineer	Performs diagnostics and repair of vessel systems, machinery, and structure during docking.
11. Structural Engineer – Marine	Designs and analyzes ship frames and structures for strength and durability.
12. CAD Technician – Ship Design	Produces technical drawings and 3D models for ship parts and layouts using CAD tools.
13. Marine Surveyor	Inspects vessels for compliance with maritime laws and classification standards.
14. R&D Engineer – Marine Tech	Develops new technologies like green propulsion, automation, and advanced materials.
15. Logistics Coordinator – Shipyard	Manages movement of parts, machinery, and supplies across shipyard sites and warehouses.
16. Safety Officer – Shipbuilding	Implements and enforces health and safety regulations within shipyard or onboard environments.
17. CNC Machinist – Marine Components	Operates computer-controlled machinery to produce precision parts for marine use.
18. Paint & Coating Specialist	Applies protective and anti-corrosive coatings to ships and components, ensuring long-term durability.
19. HVAC Specialist – Marine	Installs and services heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems aboard ships.
20. Apprentice Engineer – Shipyard	Assists senior engineers in practical and theoretical tasks while undergoing formal training.

General Job Eligibility to work in Shipbuilding & Ship Machinery in UK with 20 Job Profiles

Job Profile	Educational Requirement	Experience	Certifications / Skills	Visa Sponsorship Required
1. Naval Architect	BEng/MEng in Naval Architecture or Marine Engineering	2–5 years	CAD tools (AutoCAD, Rhino), IMO regulations	Yes
2. Marine Engineer	BEng in Marine/Mechanical Engineering	2–4 years	Marine systems, SOLAS knowledge	Yes
3. Ship Design Engineer	Degree in Marine or Mechanical Design	1–3 years	2D/3D CAD, structural design	Yes
4. Welding & Fabrication Technician	Diploma or NVQ in Welding/Manufacturing	1–2 years	MIG/TIG welding, safety certifications	Sometimes
5. Electrical/Electronics Engineer	BEng in Electrical/Marine Engineering	2–4 years	PLC, automation systems, IMO compliance	Yes
6. Project Manager – Shipbuilding	Degree + Project Management Certification (e.g. PRINCE2)	5+ years	Leadership, budgeting, naval/marine project exposure	Yes
7. QA/QC Inspector	Diploma/Degree in Quality or Engineering	3–5 years	ISO 9001, NDT testing, inspection protocols	Yes
8. Systems Integration Engineer	BEng in Systems/Electrical/Marine Engineering	3–6 years	Integrated systems, control logic, CAD	Yes
9. Supply Chain Officer	Bachelor’s in Logistics/Supply Chain	2–3 years	Procurement tools (SAP), negotiation skills	Sometimes
10. Ship Repair Engineer	Diploma/Degree in Mechanical/Marine Eng.	2–5 years	Maintenance planning, diagnostics	Yes
11. Structural Engineer – Marine	BEng in Structural/Civil/Naval Engineering	2–4 years	FEA software, steel structures, load analysis	Yes
12. CAD Technician	HND/Degree in Design/Engineering	1–2 years	AutoCAD, SolidWorks, ship schematics	Sometimes
13. Marine Surveyor	Degree + Surveyor Certification (e.g. IIMS, Lloyd's)	3–5 years	Inspection, classification society rules	Yes
14. R&D Engineer – Marine Tech	MSc/PhD in Marine Technology or similar	2–5 years	Innovation, simulation, prototyping, green tech	Yes
15. Logistics Coordinator – Shipyard	Diploma/Bachelor’s in Logistics or Operations	1–3 years	Inventory management, ERP tools	Sometimes
16. Safety Officer – Shipbuilding	NEBOSH Certificate + Eng. Degree/Diploma	2–4 years	Health & safety laws, shipyard risk management	Yes
17. CNC Machinist	Technical qualification in CNC or Manufacturing	1–3 years	CNC operation, blueprint reading	Sometimes
18. Coatings Specialist	Certification in Paint/Coatings (e.g. ICorr)	1–3 years	Application techniques, anti-corrosion systems	Sometimes
19. HVAC Specialist – Marine	Diploma in HVAC/Mechanical Engineering	2–4 years	HVAC systems, marine installation standards	Yes
20. Apprentice Engineer – Shipyard	Enrolled in vocational training or diploma program	Entry-level	Willingness to learn, basic technical skills	Yes (via sponsorship schemes)

Experience Required to work in Shipbuilding & Ship Machinery in UK

Job Profile	Experience Required	Level	Comments
Naval Architect	2–5 years	Mid to Senior Level	Entry roles available for fresh graduates with strong academic background.
Marine Engineer	2–4 years	Mid-Level	Practical experience with propulsion and onboard systems preferred.
Ship Design Engineer	1–3 years	Junior to Mid-Level	CAD design experience highly valued.
Welding & Fabrication Technician	1–2 years	Entry to Mid-Level	Apprenticeship or trade certification often accepted.
Electrical/Electronics Engineer	2–5 years	Mid-Level	Marine or offshore system knowledge preferred.
Project Manager – Shipbuilding	5–10 years	Senior Level	Project delivery experience in marine or shipyard sector required.
QA/QC Inspector	3–5 years	Mid-Level	NDT and ISO standards knowledge needed.
Marine Systems Integration Engineer	3–6 years	Mid to Senior Level	Experience with control systems and integration projects essential.
Procurement & Supply Chain Officer	2–3 years	Junior to Mid-Level	Engineering industry background preferred.
Ship Repair & Maintenance Engineer	2–4 years	Mid-Level	Dry dock or shipyard repair experience preferred.
Structural Engineer – Marine	2–4 years	Mid-Level	Marine/offshore structure experience beneficial.
CAD Technician – Ship Design	1–2 years	Entry to Mid-Level	Proficiency in 2D/3D CAD design software expected.
Marine Surveyor	3–5 years (plus certification)	Mid-Level	Field inspections and classification experience required.
R&D Engineer – Marine Technology	2–5 years (plus postgraduate research)	Mid-Level	Innovation and research experience in marine systems required.
Logistics Coordinator – Shipyard	1–3 years	Entry to Mid-Level	Experience in warehouse or shipyard logistics helpful.
Safety Officer – Shipbuilding	2–4 years	Mid-Level	Safety audits and regulatory compliance experience required.
CNC Machinist – Marine Components	1–3 years	Entry to Mid-Level	CNC equipment operation in shipyard settings preferred.
Paint & Coatings Specialist	1–3 years	Entry to Mid-Level	Surface preparation and coating systems experience needed.
HVAC Specialist – Marine	2–4 years	Mid-Level	Marine HVAC system installation/maintenance experience preferred.
Apprentice Engineer – Shipyard	0–1 year (on-the-job training)	Entry-Level	No formal experience required; training provided.

Top Hiring Companies in UK of International Candidates in Shipbuilding & Ship Machinery

Company Name	Headquarters / Location	Specialization	International Hiring Notes
BAE Systems Maritime	Glasgow, Portsmouth	Naval shipbuilding, defense vessels	Regularly hires international engineers; Tier 2 visa sponsor.
Babcock International Group	Plymouth, Rosyth, Bristol	Naval support, submarine maintenance	Known for hiring skilled foreign workers in engineering roles.
Cammell Laird Shiprepairers	Birkenhead, Merseyside	Ship repairs, refit, commercial shipbuilding	Occasionally hires international staff for specialized skills.
Harland & Wolff	Belfast, Appledore	Shipbuilding, offshore energy, vessel conversions	Open to international talent, especially in technical roles.
Ferguson Marine (Port Glasgow) Ltd	Port Glasgow, Scotland	Commercial shipbuilding, ferries	Supports overseas recruitment for in-demand roles.
Rolls-Royce Marine	Derby, Bristol	Marine propulsion systems, naval systems	Globally hires engineers and R&D staff; visa sponsorship possible.
Thales UK – Maritime Division	Templecombe, Glasgow	Submarine and sonar systems	Recruits international talent in electronics, systems integration.
A&P Group Ltd	Falmouth, Tyne, Tees	Ship repair, conversion, and support	Periodically sponsors skilled workers in engineering roles.
BAE Systems Submarines	Barrow-in-Furness	Nuclear submarines, advanced naval construction	Frequently hires internationally for critical defense programs.
L3Harris Technologies – Marine	Bristol, Portsmouth	Marine automation, control systems	Recruits globally for highly technical marine roles.
James Fisher Marine Services	Barrow, Cumbria, nationwide	Marine engineering, offshore vessel services	Welcomes global candidates for offshore/marine technician roles.
Wärtsilä UK Ltd	Poole, Aberdeen	Marine engines, propulsion, hybrid tech	International company; recruits from abroad for marine expertise.
Kongsberg Maritime UK	Aberdeen, Glasgow	Automation, navigation, remote operations	Global presence; often hires international systems engineers.
MBDA UK	Stevenage, Bolton (naval systems)	Naval weapon systems integration	Hires globally; security clearance may be required.
Atlas Elektronik UK	Dorset	Naval sonar, unmanned maritime systems	Hires engineers from abroad; often linked to MoD contracts.
Marine Engineering Ltd	Southampton	Marine mechanical and ship systems	Smaller firm but hires skilled trades and engineers internationally.
Wight Shipyard Co	Isle of Wight	High-speed ferries and commercial vessels	Open to skilled shipbuilders and welders from overseas.
DP World – Maritime Services	London Gateway, Southampton	Port operations, marine logistics	Hires engineers, technicians, and port systems specialists globally.
BMT Group Ltd	Bath, Southampton, London	Naval architecture, marine consultancy	Welcomes international professionals with naval design experience.
Caterpillar Marine UK	Peterborough	Marine diesel engines and power systems	Global company with visa sponsorship for niche engineering roles.