Principal Structural Engineer

  • BAE Systems
  • Kirkby-in-furness, Cumbria
  • Apr 07, 2026
Full time Engineering

Job Description

Job Title: Principal Structural Engineer

Location: Barrow-in-Furness.

We offer a range of hybrid and flexible working arrangements - please speak to your recruiter about the options for this particular role

Salary: Circa £60,000 depending on experience

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.

Job Description:

As a Principal Structural Engineer, you will be working within a dual function team (design and engineering) of around 14 people at varying levels of seniority. You will support with delivering engineering assessments that support the build process, whilst working closely with design colleagues to develop equipment and provide operational support for the production of safety critical systems. In addition to opportunities for overtime, we also offer local commuting support to assist with day-to-day travel.

Core duties:

  • You will be responsible for the analysis and design of complex steel structures utilising required standards

  • You will utilise your knowledge of specific regulations and requirements beyond that used within BAE Systems including LOLER, codes of compliance, weld specifications, geometric tolerance
  • You will support the manufacturing, assembly, lifting, handling and installation processes of Submarine Structures, Modules and Components
  • You will be providing support with the production technical outputs consistent with contractual requirements to meet target dates and budget demands
  • You will be responsible for approvals, checking analysis and outputs

Essential Skills:

  • You will be required to have gained prior experience of undertaking Structural calculations
  • You will need to have a good understanding of structural mechanics and dynamics principles
  • You will need experience within both the development of structural requirements alongside Validation and Verification evidence
  • You will need to be proficient within the use of Finite Element Analysis Software
  • You will need to be comfortable with presenting technical arguments to a range of stakeholders

The Specialist Structures Department team:

By joining us in the team, you will have the fantastic opportunity to work closely with a wide range of our key internal teams and external stakeholders, whilst delivering assessments that support the overall Submarine build process. As a team, we are responsible for helping to deliver and develop required equipment and provide operational support for safety critical systems. Relocation support packages are available for all roles, subject to eligibility criteria.

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.

Please be aware that many roles at BAE Systems are subject to both security and export control restrictions. These restrictions mean that factors such as your nationality, any nationalities you may have previously held, and your place of birth can restrict the roles you are eligible to perform within the organisation. All applicants must as a minimum achieve Baseline Personnel Security Standard. Many roles also require higher levels of National Security Vetting where applicants must typically have 5 to 10 years of continuous residency in the UK depending on the vetting level required for the role , to allow for meaningful security vetting checks.

Closing Date: 22nd April 2026

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early if we receive sufficient applications for the role . Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.