Head of Mechanical and Systems Engineering

Do you have a passion for transforming the maritime industry? Do you excel at turning groundbreaking ideas into tangible hardware solutions? My client is looking for an experienced and driven Head of Mechanical and Systems Engineering to lead the development of their revolutionary wind-powered ship class. In this role, you will collaborate with a dynamic team of engineers, naval architects, and researchers to create control systems for a new generation of wind-powered ships.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the development of core mechanical systems, including the kite system and ground station.
• Define system requirements to drive both internal and external product development.
• Mentor and manage a team of mechanical engineers.
• Coordinate with multi-disciplinary project stakeholders, including naval architects, embedded system engineers, and control engineers.
• Supervise the building and installation process, occasionally on-site at the shipyard.
• Make key strategic decisions regarding in-house production or external suppliers.
• Develop detailed work plans, timelines, and budgets for project execution.
• Collaborate closely with the CTO to provide technical updates and address potential challenges.
• Contribute to the design of components and participate in prototyping and testing.
• Conduct engineering calculations, strength analyses, and simulations to optimize designs.
• Assist in preparing technical documentation, including specifications, CAD models, and engineering drawings.

Your Profile:

• Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Naval Architecture, or a related field.
• 7+ years of professional experience, with 3+ years in a shipyard environment.
• Hands-on experience working at sea on merchant vessels, with an understanding of common onboard systems (a plus).
• Experience in design offices for commercial vessels (a plus).
• Exceptional organizational and systems engineering skills.
• Established network and experience with maritime suppliers.
• Expertise in developing, designing, manufacturing, and testing complex products.
• Proficiency in CAD software, particularly SolidWorks (a plus).
• Strong problem-solving abilities with a practical, results-oriented mindset.
• Self-motivated, reliable, and able to work independently.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, startup environment.
• Willingness to travel for hardware testing at various locations.
• Experience in kitesurfing, paragliding, or sailing (with relevant certifications like SBF/SKS) is a plus.
• Proficient German skills are a bonus.
• EU work permit (my client does not provide visa sponsorship for this role).

What My Client Offers:

• Opportunity to join an innovative deep-tech startup from its early stages and contribute to strategic company decisions.
• Outstanding personal development opportunities with significant creative freedom and impact.
• Competitive compensation and equity options.
• A collaborative and inclusive work environment where your contributions are valued.
• Opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the future of the shipping industry.
• Health and wellness benefits, including public transport tickets and fitness programs.
• Flexible working hours with the option for remote work.

If this is something of interest, apply now or please contact me on courtney.cole@darwinrecruitment.com as all CV’s will be reviewed immediately!

Darwin Recruitment is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.

Courtney Cole