At Babcock you’ll get hands-on with one of the most complex machines on the planet. Using your electrical and mechanical skills, you’ll test, fault find and and set-to-work, providing functional and safety assurance on Royal Navy submarines.
Whether you’ve worked on naval vessels before or not – we will train and equip you to apply your engineering experience and become a subject matter expert on submarine systems. You can play your part in protecting the protectors.
Submarines have some of the most rigorous safety and regulatory standards in the world – and it’s the purpose of the Submarine Commissioning Group at Devonport Dockyard to ensure that the systems used on them are installed in the correct way and that they work in the way the Royal Navy needs them to.
Our Commissioning Engineers do this through the inspection, testing, set to work and integration of systems and equipment, carrying out diagnosis and proposing corrective solutions to faults as an integral part of the role.
It involves both academic knowledge and practical skills – whether that’s in electrical, mechanical, or naval architectural fields – which you’ll apply to complex systems in a challenging environment. And because we support the Royal Navy 24/7, our engineers sometimes work in shifts to get the job done.
“I originally started at Babcock as an Electrical Apprentice and had always been told that the Commissioning Group was one of the best places to work in the Dockyard. Commissioning offers the chance to work within a vastly experienced and knowledgeable team day-in-day-out, and gain an in-depth insight into all aspects of the boat. It’s a myriad of systems, and the process of getting these complex platforms through their maintenance periods and returned to service safely and to a high standard is very satisfying. I would recommend Commissioning to anyone who has the desire to develop themselves in role where you can solve problems with hands-on practical ability.”
Chris – Senior Commissioning Engineer, Electrical
“Working in Commissioning allows me to be an engineer. No two days are ever the same. It’s a job that allows you to see the output of your hard work and how the work feeds into a bigger picture, ultimately leading to a submarine sailing from the dockyard to carry out her duties and keeping all of her crew safe. Being from the outskirts of London I didn’t envisage myself moving across the country to work in the defence sector on naval vessels but I’m glad I did. I have been very well supported to develop, and encouraged to undertake a variety of training courses. I am also working towards gaining Chartership with the IMechE.”
Abby – Commissioning Package Manager
“One of the biggest benefits of working in the commissioning department is how it has developed my skills. I regularly work alongside project engineers, design engineers, support engineers, facilities, and ships staff – coordinating our efforts to ensure everything came together properly. It allowed me to build my network, something I know will be incredibly valuable. It’s been hugely satisfying to be part of a team that brings complex systems to life, and this experience has given me the confidence to take on bigger challenges as I continue to grow as an engineer.”
Harry – Higher Level Apprentice in Mechanical Engineering, Commissioning Group
“I joined as a Commissioning Engineer having previously worked as a HGV technician. I’ve found the role enjoyable as I am heavily involved in the recommissioning of a wide variety of mechanical systems. There is a lot of opportunities here – since I joined, I have been promoted to Senior and Principal Commissioning Engineer – and its always rewarding to know that we have handed back a capable and reliable system to the Royal Navy.”
Adam – Principal Commissioning Engineer
You’ll support commissioning engineers carrying out the inspection, testing and commissioning of submarine systems whilst developing your own knowledge, skills and experience. Assistants need to hold a apprenticeship or other electrical or mechanical qualification up to Level 2.
Lead on the inspection, testing and commissioning of submarine systems. As well as holding a recognised electrical or mechanical apprenticeship (to level 3 or 4), Commissioning Engineers will need to have experience in an engineering role/discipline such as Electrical, Mechanical or Constructive.
As a Senior Engineer you’ll lead a team and act as the SME and Shift Lead – planning, coordinating and delivering various work packages. As a Senior you’ll need to come equipped with knowledge of commissioning ship and submarine systems.
Our Principal Commissioning Engineers have oversight and management of multiple commissioning activities, leading a team of both Senior and Commissioning Engineers. You’ll need substantial commissioning experience, and experience of managing and developing Commissioning Engineers.
As a Trials Manager you will have strategic leadership and management of commissioning activities and lead a team of skilled engineers to carry out the inspection, testing and commissioning of submarine systems.
Our Commissioning team are located at the historical HMNB Devonport, which is Western Europe’s largest naval base.
Relocating to Plymouth offers a unique blend of coastal beauty, rich history, and modern amenities that make it an attractive destination for individuals and families alike. Known as Britain’s Ocean City, Plymouth boasts stunning waterfront views, a vibrant cultural scene, and a strong sense of community. With excellent transport links, affordable housing, and proximity to natural attractions like Dartmoor National Park, Plymouth provides a high quality of life. Whether you’re drawn to its maritime heritage, green spaces, or educational opportunities, Plymouth has something to offer everyone.
In fact, the city was recently ranked second in the TotalJobs ‘Quality of Life Index’.
Got something specific you need an answer to? Then check out our Experienced Hires, Graduate, Undergraduate and Apprenticeship FAQs.
