Mechanical Design Engineer Lead

The Company

Civmec Defence Industries (CDI) is a wholly owned subsidiary of Civmec Limited, an Australian-owned, integrated, multidisciplinary heavy engineering and construction services provider. CDI is committed to strengthening Australia’s sovereign defence capability through advanced manufacturing, fabrication, and construction services. As the prime contractor delivering the Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) program for the Commonwealth of Australia, CDI plays a pivotal role in supporting national defence infrastructure. Backed by Civmec’s broad expertise across the energy, resources, infrastructure, marine, and defence sectors, CDI offers diverse career opportunities and the chance to contribute to landmark projects within a dynamic and future-focused industry.

Join the Civmec Team

A pivotal technical leadership role, The Lead Mechanical Engineer will shape the direction of mechanical engineering across our naval ship programs, establishing design authority and ensuring the delivery of robust, high‑quality engineering solutions.

The successful candidate will uphold and advance our engineering standards, provide authoritative oversight throughout the full engineering lifecycle, and drive seamless integration between engineering, manufacturing, and external partners. Their leadership will directly influence the successful execution of critical Australian Defence projects.

The Role

• Lead and manage a team of mechanical engineers, designers, and draftspersons.


• Establish and maintain mechanical design authority for naval ship projects.


• Develop, implement, and continuously improve mechanical design standards, guidelines, and processes.


• Provide technical guidance across all phases of the engineering lifecycle from concept through to fabrication, testing, and verification.


• Plan and manage team capability, resourcing, and workload to meet project demands.


• Prepare cost estimates and support project budgeting activities.


• Support recruitment, development, and mentoring of the mechanical design team.


• Ensure effective coordination across engineering disciplines, manufacturing teams, subcontractors, and suppliers.


• Monitor, track, and report on engineering activities and deliverables.

About You

To be successful in the role you will possess the following:

• Degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent qualification.


• 5 years minimum experience in mechanical engineering, ideally within complex or regulated ship building environments.


• 3 years supervisory position.


• Knowledge of classification society rules for mechanical ship systems.


• Demonstrated success leading, coaching and develop engineering teams.


• Strong problem-solving skills with a high level of attention to detail.


• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.


• Ability to manage competing priorities and deliver outcomes in a fast-paced environment.


• Experience in shipbuilding in the defence sector (highly desirable)

Due to the Security Clearance required for this position, applicants must be an Australian Citizen and eligible to obtain and uphold a Baseline Security Clearance through the Australian Department of Defence.

Civmec + You

At Civmec, we offer an inclusive workplace built on family values, with a ‘Never Assume’ culture, sustained by our experienced and supportive management team. We believe our workforce is our greatest asset, and that’s why we provide an environment rich in career development opportunities to upskill and develop professionally. Our generous Reward and Recognition scheme recognises employees that go the extra mile. Our staff benefits scheme gives you access to accident and sickness insurance, and a range of travel, entertainment, vehicle and lifestyle discounts.   

How to Apply

Please click the “apply” link to start your application. We look forward to starting the pathway to your career with Civmec.

Alternatively, please email [email protected] for a confidential chat or call our Recruitment Team on (08) 6595 5888.
Civmec is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders. Defence force experience is desirable, and veterans are encouraged to apply. We respectfully request no agency submissions.
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