Principal Electrical Engineer

I’m supporting a well-established engineering business in Dorset who are looking to bring in a Principal Electrical Engineer to lead the design and integration of complex electrical systems used across advanced maritime and autonomous technology.

This is a technical leadership role with real variety — from distributed data acquisition systems and control solutions, through to electrical architectures for autonomous platforms and underwater systems. If you enjoy solving difficult engineering challenges and guiding a high-calibre team, this will be a great fit.

What you’ll be doing:
Leading the design and development of electrical systems for complex engineering products
Defining system architectures, component selections, power distribution schemes, and control strategies
Producing and reviewing electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, cable assemblies, and design documentation
Ensuring designs meet CE/UKCA, EMC, electrical safety and relevant regulatory standards
Supporting system integration, testing, and commissioning activities
Working closely with mechanical, software, and systems engineers to deliver fully integrated solutions
Overseeing design reviews and ensuring technical accuracy across all outputs
Mentoring and developing junior engineers to strengthen capability within the team
Working with suppliers and customers to resolve technical challenges and ensure robust deliveryWhat I’m looking for:
Degree-qualified Electrical Engineer or similar
Strong understanding of electrical design principles, power distribution, safety and system integration
Experience working with electrical CAD tools
Knowledge of CE/UKCA directives, EMC, electrical safety, and compliance requirements
Ability to design for manufacturability, testability, and long-term reliability
Familiarity with PLCs, motor control, industrial automation or maritime systems is a bonus
Confident communicator with the ability to influence and lead technical discussions
Comfortable working in a dynamic environment, managing multiple prioritiesWhy this opportunity stands out
You’ll be involved in genuinely interesting engineering — systems that operate above and underwater, autonomous technologies, advanced control architectures, and high-integrity electrical design. The role mixes hands-on technical work with leadership, innovation, and cross-disciplinary collaboration.

How to Apply
Interested? I’d love to tell you more about this role — call Ian Broadhurst on (phone number removed) or drop me a message at (url removed)