Hybrid | Greater London/Surrey Area
Are you an expert in marine propulsion systems with deep technical knowledge of Azipod propulsion, thrusters, and underwater mechanical systems? We are recruiting for an experienced Manager, Underwater Systems to join a world-leading cruise operator's marine technology team based in Greater London/Surrey Area.
This is a rare opportunity to take ownership of underwater mechanical systems across a large and modern passenger vessel fleet, leading technical strategy, reliability improvement initiatives, major repair projects, and a team of specialist engineers.
The Opportunity
As the fleet's subject matter expert for underwater mechanical systems, you will provide technical leadership and oversight for podded propulsion, thrusters, fin stabilisers, and related systems. Working closely with shipboard engineering teams, shipyards, OEMs, classification societies, and internal stakeholders, you will ensure safe, reliable, and efficient vessel operations across the fleet.
The role combines hands-on engineering expertise with people leadership, project management, and strategic fleet support.
Key Responsibilities
Technical Leadership
- Act as the fleet-wide technical authority for underwater mechanical systems.
- Provide advanced troubleshooting and technical support to vessel and shore-based teams.
- Monitor propulsion system performance through diagnostics and condition-monitoring tools.
- Lead major repairs, overhauls, maintenance programmes, and dry dock activities.
- Manage obsolescence projects and complex technical initiatives.
- Conduct root cause analyses and implement corrective actions across the fleet.
- Support vessel operations through first and second-line technical guidance.
- Collaborate with marine technical operations, technology teams, and onboard engineering leadership.
- Coordinate underwater systems projects alongside fleet and ship management teams.
- Deliver technical training and best-practice guidance to engineering personnel.
- Ensure compliance with IMO, SOLAS, MARPOL, and classification society requirements.
- Conduct vessel visits, inspections, and condition assessments.
- Lead investigations into technical incidents and implement preventative measures.
- Monitor and close out audit findings, non-conformities, and conditions of class.
- Manage relationships with OEMs and specialist vendors, including propulsion manufacturers.
- Lead underwater systems workstreams during dry docks, vessel upgrades, and special projects.
- Produce technical reports, performance reviews, and improvement recommendations.
- Support newbuild projects, sea trials, and guarantee-phase activities.
- Lead and develop a team of specialist engineers and technical personnel.
- Drive knowledge sharing, mentoring, and capability development programmes.
- Manage performance, succession planning, and onboarding activities.
- Promote consistency, collaboration, and operational excellence across the team.
- Develop and manage maintenance budgets and long-term service agreements.
- Oversee major CAPEX projects and investment proposals.
- Ensure effective cost control and financial accountability across assigned programmes.
Essential Requirements
- Degree in Marine Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or equivalent maritime qualification.
- Minimum 15 years' experience working with marine propulsion systems.
- Strong expertise in Azipod propulsion systems or comparable podded propulsion technology.
- Experience supporting high-power electric propulsion systems and underwater mechanical equipment.
- Proven background in fleet technical management and dry dock execution.
- Experience managing budgets, maintenance programmes, and major engineering projects.
- Strong communication, analytical, and stakeholder management skills.
- Previous sailing experience as an Engineer Officer is highly desirable.
- ABB Marine Academy Azipod certification.
- Experience with cruise vessels, ferries, offshore vessels, or other pod-propelled ships.
- Knowledge of ice-class vessel operations.
- Understanding of hybrid propulsion technologies and emerging efficiency solutions.
- Experience using fleet management and data analytics systems.
- Senior managerial position within a globally recognised cruise and marine operation.
- Opportunity to influence fleet-wide technical strategy and innovation.
- Hybrid working arrangement (4/1)
- International travel to vessels, shipyards, and vendor facilities.
- Competitive salary and benefits package.
- Long-term career development opportunities within a growing global organisation.
If you're a propulsion specialist looking to take ownership of a fleet's underwater systems strategy while leading a team of technical experts, we'd love to hear from you.