Project Manager - Technical Build (Marine)
IT, Operations
About the role
Kraken is developing and delivering next-generation autonomous marine technology, creating an exciting opportunity for an experienced Project Manager – Technical Build (Marine) to join our growing team.
This role will initially focus on the construction and delivery of a 24-metre autonomous vessel. Working closely with engineers, suppliers, subcontractors and project stakeholders, you will take ownership of vessel build activities, ensuring work is delivered safely, efficiently and to the required quality standards. You will be responsible for coordinating complex work packages, managing build progress, resolving practical engineering challenges and supporting successful project delivery in a fast-paced environment.
What you'll be doing
- Managing the technical build of marine vessels, ensuring delivery against scope, schedule, quality and budget requirements.
- Coordinating day-to-day activities across internal teams, suppliers and subcontractors.
- Acting as a key point of contact for vessel construction, integration activities and practical build challenges.
- Reviewing technical drawings, specifications and documentation to support efficient vessel construction.
- Monitoring build progress, identifying risks and implementing solutions to maintain programme momentum.
- Ensuring all build activities meet technical, safety, quality and regulatory requirements.
- Supporting the integration of mechanical, electrical, propulsion, communications, control and payload systems.
- Managing build readiness, material availability, change control and configuration alignment throughout the construction phase.
- Providing regular progress updates and working collaboratively with project teams to support informed decision-making.
What we're looking for
- Experience managing marine vessel builds, particularly vessels over 24 metres.
- Strong practical understanding of marine mechanical, electrical, propulsion, control and auxiliary systems.
- Proven experience managing suppliers, subcontractors and multidisciplinary teams within an engineering or manufacturing environment.
- Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
- Competent in Microsoft Word and Excel.
- Full UK Driving Licence.
- Eligible to obtain and maintain SC Security Clearance.
Desirable experience
- Qualification in Marine Engineering, Naval Architecture, Mechanical Engineering or Electrical Engineering.
- APM, PRINCE2 or equivalent project management qualification.
- Experience using Microsoft Project.
- Experience working on autonomous, unmanned or advanced technology marine platforms.
- Knowledge of MCA requirements, classification society regulations and relevant marine standards.
How you'll work
At Kraken, we value individuals who take ownership, communicate openly and work collaboratively to achieve ambitious goals. You'll be a proactive problem-solver who can balance competing priorities, build strong relationships across teams and maintain high standards of quality and professionalism.
You'll thrive in a fast-paced environment where no two days are the same, using your initiative and technical understanding to overcome challenges and keep projects moving forward. We encourage a practical, hands-on approach, with a focus on continuous improvement, accountability and delivering results.
Why join us?
Kraken is at the forefront of autonomous maritime innovation, designing and delivering advanced technology that is helping shape the future of the marine industry.
Joining Kraken means becoming part of a highly skilled and collaborative team working on complex and genuinely ground-breaking projects. You'll have the opportunity to make a visible impact, take ownership of meaningful work and contribute to the successful delivery of next-generation autonomous vessel programmes.
We offer a dynamic and supportive environment where innovation is encouraged, expertise is valued and professional development is supported as we continue to grow.
What we provide
- 25 days holiday per year, plus paid bank holiday
- After two years’ consecutive service, one additional day’s annual leave up to a maximum of five additional days annual leave
- Holiday buy/sell, up to five days per calendar year
- Flexi working, core hours 10:00 to 15:00, subject to departmental requirements
- Private Medical Insurance with optional family cover
- Pension scheme with a 5% employer contribution, there is no cap on the employee contribution level
- Life assurance 3x salary
- Group Income Protection 3x salary, subject to eligibility
- Health Care Cash Plan
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Electric Car Scheme
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP) providing mental health and wellbeing support
- Professional membership reimbursement
Important to know
Due to the nature of our work many of our roles require a UK nationality and the ability to obtain a security clearance. Applicants who accept a conditional offer of employment must meet the requirement of right to work in the UK and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information and will be subject to Government security checks.
Kraken Works Limited is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to maintaining a workplace that is free from unlawful discrimination and offers equal opportunities to all. Applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, and marriage and civil partnerships.