Project Engineer / Manager - Marine Engineering

First Principle has been retained by a cleantech startup developing an innovative vessel-integrated technology aimed at dramatically reducing the carbon intensity of the maritime sector.

Following several years of intensive research and development, as well as early regulatory and commercial groundwork, the company is now entering a pilot execution phase, working directly with shipping and technical partners to bring its first onboard system to life.

To support this, we’re seeking a hands-on technical project leader to work directly with the founding team across pilot delivery, onboard integration, and field execution. This role will serve as a central figure in the deployment of the company’s first commercial system, combining elements of engineering coordination, technical problem solving, commissioning support, and project management.

Responsibilities

• Lead day-to-day technical execution of the pilot deployment, working closely with the founding team and external partners to move the system from final build through onboard installation and operation
• Coordinate across engineering, fabrication, vessel, and testing workstreams to ensure successful delivery of the first commercial pilot
• Support integration of onboard systems, including mechanical equipment, piping, controls, instrumentation, and associated infrastructure
• Work closely with third-party technical partners, shipyard or vessel stakeholders, and commissioning teams to manage interfaces and keep execution on track
• Contribute directly to field troubleshooting, system validation, commissioning, and sea-trial preparation as the pilot moves toward operation
• Help manage project timelines, technical priorities, and execution risks across a fast-moving and highly iterative deployment environment
• Support technical documentation, operating procedures, and practical implementation planning for pilot operations
• Contribute to next-generation product development by feeding operational learnings back into future platform design and deployment strategy

Success Criteria

• It’s highly likely this person will be a degree-qualified engineer.
• Strong experience operating in hands-on engineering or technical project environments, ideally involving complex physical systems across advanced chemical engineering, marine engineering/naval architecture, or aerospace.
• A clear track record supporting technical programs from build and integration through commissioning, testing, and/or field deployment
• Willingness to travel both domestically and internationally as required.

Sitting between technical execution and on-the-ground delivery, this role offers broad exposure across engineering, operations, and pilot commercialization at a pivotal stage of company growth. You’ll work directly with an experienced founding team, external technical partners, and major industry stakeholders as the company moves from development into live deployment.

If you’ve built your career in complex hardware and are looking for a role with more ownership, variety, and real-world impact, apply today or reach out to our team for more information!