Principal Manufacturing Engineer

About the role

H&B Defence, a joint venture between HII and Babcock, is recruiting a Principal Manufacturing Engineer to strengthen supplier capability, ensure compliance and embed technical excellence across its programs. The role leads supplier audits, conducts supplier assessments and guides corrective actions, and works closely with internal and external customers.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and support onboarding audits, conduct supplier assessments and guide corrective actions to raise manufacturing maturity
• Plan and execute independent assurance activities, keep accurate audit records and contribute to program reviews
• Conduct complex investigations, resolve issues and produce high-quality technical documentation
• Advise customers, contribute to bid artefacts and help shape engineering processes and continuous improvement
• Champion standardised manufacturing and supplier due-diligence practices
• Mentor engineering practitioners, support succession planning and contribute to trade control compliance

Required profile

• Technical or engineering experience in the US Naval Nuclear industry
• Experience in MRO, sustainment operations, infrastructure delivery, safety case definition or environmental management
• Experience with MILSPECs and NAVSEA instructions, especially SUBSAFE or nuclear-classified components
• NQA-1 Lead Auditor qualification, and ASQ or ISO 9001 auditor certification
• Ability to lead supplier audits, corrective action programs and maturity assessments
• Frequent interstate travel and willingness to support overseas engagements

Required skills

• Weld engineering, machining, forging/casting or advanced manufacturing techniques
• Understanding of manufacturing processes, engineering governance and supplier capability development
• Ability to interpret standards, assess risk and apply engineering judgement
• Communication skills to influence stakeholders and build trusted relationships

What we offer

• A structured mentorship program where you can act as Mentor or Mentee
• Access to nuclear expertise across the UK, US and Australia
• Professional learning and development opportunities
• Employee Assistance Program for wellbeing