“Hi, I’m Eleanor and I’m a Mechanical Systems Engineer. When people ask me what I do, I often describe us as the plumbers of the engineering world.
I work within the Mechanical Systems team, which is responsible for many of the infrastructure systems that allow Devonport Dockyard to operate safely and effectively. We look after pipework, pressure systems and utility networks across the site, including fresh water, salt water, cooling water supplies for submarines, industrial gases, sewage systems, and steam and condensate networks.
While we don’t work directly on submarines, the systems we support are critical to the submarine programme. Without those systems, maintenance couldn’t take place in the way it does today.
My favourite part of the role is the variety and the challenge of solving problems.
There’s a surprising amount of detective work involved in engineering, which is one of the reasons I think the role suits naturally curious people. We might begin by reviewing historic documentation, carrying out site surveys, inspecting equipment and piecing together information before we fully understand what’s happening.
Collaboration is also an integral part of engineering and very few projects are delivered by just one engineering department. Most projects involves input from multiple disciplines. I regularly work alongside colleagues from Human Factors, Safety Engineering, Electrical Control & Instrumentation, Structures and many other specialist teams.
One project that stands out involved modifying saltwater cooling systems under significant time pressure.
The project presented several engineering challenges, and we had to work hard as a team to develop practical solutions. In the end, we successfully modified the cooling system, allowing the submarine to enter dock and continue its maintenance programme.
I’m particularly proud of that project because it reflects what engineering is really about. It’s not just about the technical aspects; it’s about people working together, overcoming challenges and delivering solutions.
Devonport Dockyard
One thing that many people don’t realise about the role is just how much of Devonport you get to see.
We carry out surveys all over the dockyard, including historic buildings, underground tunnels, shafts, rooftops and infrastructure that has been in place for generations. Some of these areas are hidden away from everyday view and visiting them gives you a real appreciation for the history of the site.
There are parts of Devonport that feel like hidden pieces of Plymouth’s engineering heritage, and having access to those locations is one of the most fascinating aspects of the job.
Joining Babcock
My route into the business wasn’t entirely straightforward. After university, I worked for a manufacturing company specialising in bespoke machinery before leaving engineering for a period to work for a charity. It was through a STEM Returners programme that I discovered an opportunity with Babcock and was able to return to engineering.
Looking back, that opportunity was a hugely important point in my career.
Like many engineers, I didn’t arrive with detailed knowledge of every system I support today. My degree gave me the engineering fundamentals, but the specialist expertise has come through experience, projects, site visits and learning from colleagues. Over time, I’ve steadily built my knowledge and confidence, which is one of the things I enjoy most about the profession. You’re always learning.
For me, Babcock has provided the ideal environment for that development. The scale and complexity of the dockyard means there is always something new to learn, while the people around you are incredibly supportive and willing to share their expertise.
The flexibility is also a real benefit. Hybrid and agile working arrangements make it easier to balance work and personal commitments, but what stands out most to me is the team. I’ve been fortunate to work with supportive colleagues and managers who genuinely want to help each other succeed.”