CAD Operator - Shipbuilding

Navantia UK is a new force in British industry, supporting the UK’s defence, energy and maritime ambitions. We’re doing this by creating state-of-the-art sovereign defence capabilities, investing in the UK to modernise industrial facilities, and bolstering the nation's energy security. Established in 2022, Navantia UK is a subsidiary of Navantia SA, a Spanish state-owned company with over 300 years of naval shipbuilding history. In January 2025, Navantia UK completed the acquisition of Harland & Wolff and its four historic facilities in Belfast, Appledore, Methil, and Arnish. By combining Harland & Wolff’s proud heritage and facilities with Navantia’s global expertise, Navantia UK is well-positioned to strengthen Britain’s defence, maritime and energy industrial capabilities, supporting jobs and economic growth across the UK.

The CAD Operator is responsible for producing accurate 2D and 3D engineering drawings and models to support shipbuilding projects. Working closely with Naval Architects, Designers, Engineers, and Production teams, the CAD Operator will develop and maintain design documentation that supports vessel construction, installation, outfitting, and modification activities while ensuring compliance with industry standards, classification society requirements, and project specifications.

Key Duties

• Produce detailed 2D drawings and 3D models for shipbuilding and marine projects.
• Generate fabrication, assembly, and production drawings.
• Develop drawings to support lifting and turning requirements
• Maintain drawing registers and controlled documentation.
• Review and revise drawings for engineering changes.
• Support design reviews and technical meetings.
• Prepare drawing packages for manufacturing, procurement and installation.

• HNC/HND, NVQ Level 3, apprenticeship or equivalent in Engineering Design or related discipline.
• Experience in shipbuilding, marine, offshore or heavy engineering.
• Proficiency in FORAN CAD Modelling
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings and specifications

***Please note as part of the onboarding process all candidates will need to complete BPSS security clearance***

We are an Opening Doors employer, committed to equal opportunity and an inclusive workplace. Our approach, shaped by our values of service, trust, excellence, agility, dedication, and you, we focus on removing barriers and recognising potential. We are committed to fairness at every stage, including providing reasonable adjustments and actively working to eliminate discrimination.

We believe talent is everywhere, and by widening access to opportunity and welcoming diverse experiences, we aim to create a workplace where every person feels valued and has an equal chance.

If you experience difficulties or are unable to apply for a role on-line please contact us at people.skills@harland-wolff.com and one of the team will be in contact to help you.