Lead Engineer - New Builds

Location: Belgium

Job Description

As a Lead Engineer - New Builds within the Fleet Investments department, you play a key role in the technical realization of DEME’s new build vessels and asset development projects. You are responsible for coordinating and steering the engineering scope from concept development through to detailed design and construction support.

Working closely with the Project Manager, you ensure that the technical solution delivered is fully aligned with the initial requirements, meets performance expectations, and is realized within the defined timeline. You act as the central engineering lead, integrating inputs across disciplines and guiding both internal and external engineering partners.

Depending on the project size, you either act as the right hand of the Project Manager on large, complex projects, or take full ownership of smaller engineering projects from A to Z.

Your responsibilities

• You lead and coordinate the engineering activities for new build vessels and asset development projects, ensuring technical consistency and quality throughout the project lifecycle.

• You act as the primary counterpart of the Project Manager, translating project requirements into feasible engineering solutions and ensuring delivery in line with scope, timing, and performance expectations.

• You coordinate multidisciplinary engineering activities across domains such as naval architecture, structural engineering, mechanical systems, electrical drives, and control & automation systems.

• You manage and steer both internal stakeholders and external partners (e.g. design offices and suppliers), ensuring alignment and timely delivery of engineering outputs.

• You ensure that the developed design reflects the operational and technical requirements and can be successfully translated into execution during construction.

• You identify technical risks and interface challenges early on, and drive mitigation actions to safeguard project objectives.

• You support the transition from design to construction by actively engaging with shipyards and contractors, providing clarification and ensuring proper understanding of the design intent.

• You take ownership of smaller projects, managing the full engineering scope independently, including planning and coordination of resources.

• You guide and coach a team of engineers (typically 2 to 10), ensuring effective collaboration and high-quality deliverables.

• You maintain a structured approach to engineering planning and follow-up, ensuring milestones are met and interfaces between disciplines are properly managed.

Your profile

• You hold a Master’s degree in Engineering (Civil or Industrial Engineer), with a strong interest in multidisciplinary engineering projects.

• You have minimum 10 years of relevant experience in complex engineering environments; this role is not suited for entry-level candidates.

• You have a broad technical affinity (“polytechnical mindset”) and are able to understand, connect, and challenge multiple engineering disciplines.

• You have experience in coordinating engineering teams or projects, with a strong focus on integration across technical domains.

• You are able to structure complex problems, identify interfaces, and drive solutions in a pragmatic and efficient way.

• You demonstrate strong communication skills and are comfortable interacting with both technical experts and project stakeholders.

• You are capable of leading a small team of engineers and guiding external partners towards common objectives.

• You are willing to travel occasionally to shipyards and partners within Europe and internationally to support project execution.

• You combine analytical thinking with a hands-on approach and a strong sense of ownership.

Our offer

• An extensive mobility program for a healthy work-life balance.

• A permanent training track which allows you to develop yourself personally and professionally.

• A stimulating, innovative workplace with numerous growth opportunities.

• A people-oriented environment with an interactive health program and a focus on employee wellbeing.