Mechanical Engineering Manager

Edinburgh or Orkney (hybrid working available)

About Orbital

Orbital Marine Power is a visionary Scottish renewable energy company focused on the global application of its pioneering floating turbine technology that can supply predictable power from tidal streams and ocean currents, every day, regardless of the weather. The technology has already been proven at full scale, with the company operating the world’s most powerful tidal turbine since July 2021. This provides invaluable operational insight while clearly demonstrating the technology’s commercial viability. With global interest in tidal energy accelerating, Orbital is expanding its team to support larger‑scale manufacture, multi‑turbine delivery and the next stage of commercial growth.

The company recently secured an additional £7m investment and won a major new project in Canada that will see at least six turbines deployed in one of the world’s most promising locations for tidal energy generation. Orbital enters this next phase with strong momentum and a clear pathway to larger deployments and long‑term expansion.

What this role is about

You will lead Orbital’s Mechanical Engineering team and provide technical authority for the mechanical systems and structural elements of its floating tidal turbines. Plan and deliver safe, robust and cost-effective engineering across design, analysis, manufacture, assembly, testing and in-service support.

This role is suited to a hands-on engineering leader who enjoys combining technical excellence with team leadership, supplier management and offshore renewable energy innovation.

What you will be doing

• Leading, developing and supporting the mechanical engineering team, including resource planning, work allocation and technical development.
• Planning and delivering mechanical engineering activities against project programmes and budgets.
• Leading mechanical system and structural design activities, including CAD, FEA, fatigue assessment, design reviews and verification.
• Defining and applying offshore design and safety standards while supporting certification and independent assurance activities.
• Maintaining the integrity and safety of Orbital turbine assets throughout manufacture and operation.
• Providing technical leadership in fabrication, welding, corrosion protection, inspection and quality assurance.
• Managing assembly, fitting and testing activities during turbine build programmes.
• Managing suppliers and major fabrication work packages to achieve safety, quality, schedule and budget objectives.
• Working closely with engineering, projects and operations teams to resolve technical interfaces and ensure consistency of design.
• Supporting preparation of build packs, construction planning and technical documentation.
• Championing Orbital's environmental, health and safety culture

What you will bring

• Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Naval Architecture or a related engineering discipline.
• Significant experience in mechanical and/or structural design, ideally within offshore or marine environments.
• Strong engineering analysis capability including FEA and fatigue assessment.
• Knowledge of offshore design standards, with experience of DNV standards advantageous.
• Manufacturing experience with a strong understanding of steel fabrication, welding and design for manufacture.
• Experience leading engineering teams, including performance management, coaching and work planning.
• Budget and supplier management experience across major engineering work packages.
• Practical knowledge of offshore corrosion protection systems.
• Strong technical judgement, communication and problem-solving skills.

Useful but not essential

• Experience of NDT, inspection planning and manufacturing quality surveillance.
• Experience within renewable energy sectors such as offshore wind, wave or tidal energy.
• Chartered Engineer status or working towards chartership.
• Experience supporting commissioning, operation or maintenance of large offshore systems.
• Understanding of rotating equipment and hydraulic systems.
• Willingness to travel to suppliers, fabrication yards and operational sites when required.

Why the role matters and why it's interesting

This role offers the opportunity to lead the mechanical engineering function behind some of the world's most advanced tidal energy technology. You will play a central role in the design, manufacture and deployment of Orbital's floating turbines, helping accelerate the transition to predictable renewable energy generation.Working across engineering, fabrication, operations and project delivery, you will influence key technical decisions while developing the next generation of offshore renewable energy systems.

Interested in taking things further?

If you would like more information or would like to discuss your suitability, please apply or contact Anita Galbraith at Eden Scott in confidence. Even if you are not actively looking or do not have an updated CV, you are very welcome to get in touch for an initial conversation.

Eden Scott is working exclusively on this appointment. Any direct or third-party applications to Orbital Marine Power will be directed to Eden Scott for consideration.

Remuneration Package

Orbital offers a competitive salary based on experience, a robust benefits package designed to support the wellbeing, security and long‑term growth of Orbital employees, including private medical care and generous holiday allowance, and excellent opportunities for professional growth as the business continues to expand.