Principal Mechanical Engineer

at ASC
Published October 27, 2025
Location Osborne, Australia
Category Engineering  
Job Type Full-time  

Description

ASC is Australia’s submarine company. We built the Royal Australian Navy’s Collins Class submarines, sustain them, and are now delivering their Life of Type Extension (LOTE) to increase the boats’ service lives. We have also been selected by the Australian Government to sustain and jointly build the nation’s nuclear-powered submarines – the largest and most complex industrial undertaking in Australia’s history.

Our work is interesting and meaningful, contributing directly to Australia’s national security. We offer rewarding roles that provide the opportunity to grow your career, and the flexibility to balance life and work. A career at ASC is like no other, delivering a deeper purpose we can all be proud of.

About the Opportunity

As our new Principal Mechanical Engineer, you’ll provide expertise to the LOTE project design team on the design, analysis, and sustainment of mechanical systems critical to submarine performance. You’ll apply deep technical expertise to solve complex engineering challenges across mechanical systems and equipment. Reporting to the LOTE Technical Governance Lead, you’ll collaborate across disciplines and guide teams to deliver safe, practical, and high-quality solutions, providing advice to the Technical Director on escalated issues.

Responsibilities

Review and (once Engineering delegations received) approve engineering documentation, including drawings, reports and calculations; ensuring quality of product is maintained and engineering advice is sound.
Provide expert guidance across engineering lifecycles and technical decisions.
Provide direction on advanced modelling and analysis.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to deliver integrated mechanical solutions.
Mentor engineers and support capability development.
Apply systems engineering and drive continuous improvement.
Represent ASC at working groups, forums, and professional events.
About you

15+ years in mechanical engineering, ideally in defence, marine, or aerospace.
Recognised authority in mechanical systems and their integration.
Chartered Professional Engineer (CPEng) or equivalent desirable.
Deep knowledge of submarine mechanical systems and interdependencies.
Skilled in engineering tools and systems thinking.
Proven leadership in complex, multi-disciplinary projects.
Strong communicator across technical and executive levels.
Proactive, adaptable, and committed to engineering excellence.
Eligibility

This role requires a current National Police Clearance, an Australian Defence Security Clearance and an ability to access protected US defence technology. Your eligibility for this role is dependent on you obtaining and maintaining such clearances and approvals.

Whilst ASC will accept all applications for this role, as this role requires an ability to access protected US defence technology, applicants holding nationality of certain foreign countries will not be eligible.

To check your eligibility please visit the Australian Government Security Vetting Agency website.

Benefits

Unique and challenging work with a deeper purpose.
Flexibility over how, when and where you work for the best work/life balance.
Up to 10 days additional leave every year so you can rest and recharge.
Generous parental leave so you can give your family the focus it deserves.
Subsidised childcare to ease the financial pressure on your family.
Health and wellbeing initiatives so you can perform at your best at work.
Professional development opportunities to advance your career.
A diverse and supportive environment where you can thrive.
Discounts and exclusive offers from leading Australian brands to help you save.
About ASC

Established in 1985, ASC’s 2,400-plus staff offer a depth of submarine design, project management, supply chain, construction and engineering experience and expertise that is unparalleled in Australia’s defence industry. The company’s work on Australia’s nuclear-powered submarine build and the Collins Class Life of Type Extension takes place in Osborne, South Australia, with sustainment shared across Osborne and Henderson, Western Australia. ASC also plays a leading role in training Royal Australian Navy submariners.

Apply today for a career with a deeper purpose.

Early applications are encouraged as shortlisting may commence immediately.