This organisation exists for one clear purpose: saving lives at sea. Operating 24/7, rescue crews depend on high‑performance lifeboats, vessels, and specialist equipment to respond in some of the most challenging conditions.
We are looking for an Engineer or Senior Engineer to join the team, helping to design, develop, and support cutting‑edge life‑saving craft and systems. You will play a key role in ensuring these assets are safe, reliable, and ready when they're needed most.
Candidates who are not yet at Senior level will be considered at Engineer level, with clear progression opportunities.
The role
You will work across the full lifecycle of vessels and associated systems, from concept and design through to testing, rollout, and in‑service support. This is a varied role combining hands‑on engineering, project delivery, and technical problem solving.
Key activities
- Provide technical support for the design, development, integration, and operation of life‑saving craft and associated equipment
- Support the testing and rollout of new assets, including lifeboats, coastal vessels, and rescue hovercraft
- Carry out engineering design work including CAD modelling (SolidWorks), calculations, drawings, and specifications
- Ensure engineering activities align with established processes, standards, and asset management principles
- Undertake investigations, fault finding, trials, and data analysis across operational sites, boatyards, and supplier locations
- Manage engineering documentation, configuration control, and change processes across the asset lifecycle
- Work within project teams to deliver against time, cost, risk, and performance targets
- Liaise with internal teams, operational staff, suppliers, contractors, and boatyards
- Provide technical support and guidance to operational personnel and volunteers
- Contribute to research, development, and continuous improvement initiatives
- Support engineering governance, including acting as a signatory where appropriate
- Undertake additional technical tasks and projects as required
About you
You are a practical, analytical engineer who enjoys solving problems and working in a collaborative environment. You are comfortable managing changing priorities and engaging with a wide range of stakeholders.
Experience & qualifications
- Experience in a relevant engineering role (marine or similar environment advantageous)
- Background in design, development, or support of technical systems
- Experience working with suppliers, contractors, and project teams
- Marine design experience desirable
- Supervisory or project management experience desirable
- Engineering qualification at Level 6 (or Level 5 with significant experience)
- Working towards Incorporated or Chartered Engineer status
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Proficient in Microsoft Office and CAD (e.g. SolidWorks)
- Good written and spoken English
Location: Poole, Dorset (Hybrid - minimum 3 days on site)
Contract: Permanent, Full Time
Salary:
- Senior Engineer: £42,479 - £49,976
- Engineer: £35,853 - £42,181
Benefits & Working Arrangements:
- Hybrid working (minimum 3 days per week in Poole)
- Flexible working arrangements
- 26 days annual leave plus bank holidays
- Competitive pension scheme
- Life assurance
- Health cash plan
This is not an operational seagoing role; however, it is desirable that you are capable of going afloat in all sea conditions.
Why apply?
This is an opportunity to work on meaningful engineering challenges that have a direct, real‑world impact. You will be involved in the design, integration, and support of critical maritime assets, working on diverse projects in a demanding and rewarding environment. Your work will directly contribute to improving the safety, performance, and reliability of life‑saving vessels.
