Principal Design EngineerLocation: Southampton hybrid, 3 days per week on-siteSalary: £70-75K+ (neg) plus excellent benefits package. More may be available for the right candidate.A relocation package and Visa/Sponsorship support is available for this role if required.About the OpportunityOur client is a fast-growing maritime technology business developing wind-assisted propulsion systems that help reduce fuel consumption and emissions across global shipping.They are now looking to appoint a Principal Design Engineer to join their growing engineering team. This is a hands-on role with broad involvement across the design lifecycle, from concept development through to detailed design and production-ready hardware.Working closely with the Head of Engineering, you will take ownership of key subsystems, helping to deliver designs that are robust, manufacturable, compliant, and ready for real-world use. This is an excellent opportunity to join a mission-driven business developing real climate-impact technology in a highly innovative environment and would suit someone genuinely motivated by sustainability and the opportunity to contribute to cleaner shipping.Key RequirementsWe are looking for an experienced Mechanical / Structural / Marine Engineer with strong expertise in marine structural design, analysis, and classification-led approval.You should bring:Degree qualification in Naval, Mechanical, Structural, or Marine EngineeringAround 5-10 years experience designing marine structures approved by classification societiesStrong proficiency in Siemens NX, Autodesk Inventor, or similar 3D CAD tools Strong experience in structural analysis, including FEA and hand calculationsProven experience translating load cases into robust design requirements and validated structures Experience working directly with classification societies and supporting technical approval Experience with DNV, LR, NK or similar bodies Strong understanding of DFMA, structural integrity, and manufacturability Solution-driven approach Comfortable working in a fast-paced, chaotic environment Desirable experience includes:Experience in fatigue, buckling, and large welded structuresExposure to aero-structural systems or other performance-led structural design Experience validating models against real-world dataKnowledge of structural testing, validation, and manufacturing techniquesRole & ResponsibilitiesAs Principal Design Engineer, you will lead the design and structural development of key product subsystems, ensuring they meet performance, compliance, and delivery requirements.Responsibilities will include:Leading the mechanical design of subsystems in line with programme objectives Owning the development of wing geometry, balancing performance, structural integrity, and manufacturabilityDeveloping and managing load cases across classification and real-world operating conditions Translating load cases into clear design requirementsDefining structural design philosophy and ensuring compliance with classification standards Performing and overseeing structural analysis and design verification Developing and improving in-house structural analysis tools and methodsLeading technical engagement with classification societiesActing as the internal authority for stress and fatigue analysisSupporting and reviewing the work of more junior engineers where appropriate Promoting high standards of engineering integrity, safety, and sustainabilityWhy Join?This is a rare opportunity to join a business developing real-world clean technology for the global shipping market.You will benefit from:Working on real climate-impact hardwareHigh levels of ownership within a small engineering team Broad exposure from concept through to productionThe opportunity to grow and progress with the business as the technology scales JBRP1_UKTJ