Senior Mechanical Engineer
Job Location: Osborne, South Australia
Who we are:
Join BAE Systems and you’ll be part of something bigger. As a valued member of our global colleague network, you’ll bring your unique skills and perspectives to help pioneer progress and protect what matters most. You’ll be trusted to play your part in delivering the advanced, technology-led defence, aerospace and security solutions of tomorrow – shaping a safer future, for all of us.
From the depths of the ocean, to the far reaches of space – there’s no limit to where a career at BAE Systems could take you.
Role Description:
As a Senior Mechanical Engineer within the Manufacturing Engineering team, you will develop installation strategies for key naval platform systems and convert complex design intent into clear, practical instructions for the production workforce.
You will collaborate across the engineering value stream, create installation processes for components of varying complexity, and support equipment from shipyard delivery through installation and commissioning handover. The role provides structured training, broad stakeholder engagement and hands‑on involvement in planning and executing major engineering activities.
Core Duties:
- Work within the Build Strategy Team, within the Manufacturing Engineering team, where you will learn and apply the fundamentals of naval ship construction.
- Lead the development of installation strategies for key Platform Systems.
- Work with a wide range of stakeholders across the engineering value stream to develop artefacts that can ultimately be used by the workers on the production floor.
- Develop process and installation instructions from the simplest to the most complex of items in consultation with various stakeholders. Your role will be to bridge the gap between design engineering and the production workforce to ensure design intent is transformed into functional, practical instructions for the delivery on the production floor.
- See your equipment from delivery into the shipyard through installation onto the ship and supporting all the way through to handover to the commissioning department.
- Receive training, both internal and external, and exposure to different experiences with the objective of developing subject matter expertise in ship’s platform systems.
- Engage with customers and stakeholders for designing, planning and execution of engineering activities and projects.
Essential Skills:
- Possess a diploma or bachelor degree in Mechanical Engineering or other relevant discipline.
- Significant engineering experience, preferably within the defence industry
- Have an interest in Maritime Platform Systems – shipboard mechanical and marine systems.
- Understand the role of mechanical engineering, also known as production engineering, in a shipyard environment.
- Be highly motivated to achieve best results, working as a member of a team, and autonomously when required.
- Possess a naturally analytical, evidence-based approach to problem solving.
- Excellent communication (both written and verbal) and interpersonal skills, with the ability to develop good relationships.
- Previous shipbuilding experience will be highly regarded
Why BAE Systems?
Here you’ll build a career with purpose and limitless possibilities. With lifelong learning and meaningful work – this is a place where you can grow your career with confidence and be empowered to be your best. You’ll be recognised for your contribution and enjoy rewards tailored to what’s most important to you and your family – support for your financial and personal wellbeing, as well as a balanced lifestyle. In an environment embracing sustainable ways of working and with a strong sense of shared purpose, our supportive culture is a place you can feel you belong and proud of the difference you make.
A place where everyone can thrive
We’re committed to building an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and supported. We know that a diversity of backgrounds, perspectives and experiences strengthens our teams and is vital to the work we do.
We support our veteran community through VetNet Australia, along with initiatives such as Reserve Service Leave, a Veteran Mentoring Program, and partner-supported programs.
We welcome applications from all candidates and strongly encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to apply.
We are proud to be recognised as an employer of choice for women by WORK180 and recipients of the Benchmarcx Top Employer for Candidate Experience Excellence 2026. As members of the Circle Back Initiative, we commit to responding to every applicant.
If you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please contact our recruitment team to discuss the support you may need. You can also connect with us via Careers and Employment.
Security statement
Please note, as a defence security clearance is required for this role, applicants must be Australian citizens and either possess or be eligible to obtain and maintain one. Further information regarding security clearances. (Remove for non-ITAR role) International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) are applicable and as such, your nationality may be a factor in determining your suitability for this role. Please visit this webpage for more information
