TITLE:

Principal Mechanical Engineer
Due to continued growth within Defence and Maritime, KBR is seeking a Principal Mechanical Engineer to join our team. Based in either Adelaide or Perth, this role will see you leading the design, specification, and package management of cranes, hoists, and load-handling systems. You’ll be at the forefront of projects that demand precision, safety, and compliance, while working closely with suppliers, stakeholders, and cross-disciplinary teams to deliver outcomes that make a real impact.

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED:

• Mechanical Engineering degree (or equivalent).
• Proven experience in machine design, particularly cranes, hoists, and rail-mounted equipment.
• Strong knowledge of structural and dynamic analysis, with experience applying standards such as AS3990, AS4100, AS1170, and AS4024.
• Hands-on experience preparing rigging and motion studies.
• Demonstrated success in supplier and package management.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to collaborate across teams.
• A strong safety mindset and ability to embed risk management in design.
• Due to Defence project requirements, candidates must hold Australian Citizenship with the eligibility to obtain an Australian Defence Clearance.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Design and specify cranes, hoists, rail-mounted equipment, and load-handling systems.
• Analyse load movements, paths, and dynamic behaviours to deliver safe and efficient solutions.
• Prepare lift rigging and motion studies, ensuring compliance with Australian Standards.
• Apply structural and mechanical engineering principles across strength, fatigue, stability, braking, and motion dynamics.
• Lead package management activities, from specification through to FAT and SAT with suppliers.
• Build strong relationships with stakeholders across operations, maintenance, asset ownership, and regulatory bodies.
• Keep safety front and centre, integrating risk management into every stage of the design.

OUR PURPOSE:

We are driven by our purpose of Together, delivering infrastructure for a better tomorrow. Our results and reputation for excellence are underpinned by our people and our culture of caring, collaboration learning and trust to deliver innovative professional services for our customers.
We leverage our global network and work in seamless partnership with our customers to deliver innovative, creative and sustainable solutions that will make a lasting impact on communities around Australia.