Systems Engineering Manager

Location: hobart
Job Type: permanent
Salary: Competitive Salary
Contact: Emma O'Donnell
The Business
This is an exceptional opportunity to work for one of the world’s largest and most innovative high-performance catamaran builders. Incat is a global leader in bespoke aluminium vessels, specialising in cutting-edge propulsion systems,  from diesel to battery-electric and hybrid. They hold the transatlantic speed record and deliver projects ranging from specialist 12-month builds to highly complex, large-scale vessels that take up to two years to complete.
With a current workforce of 480 and plans to grow to 550 over the next 18 months, Incat is at the forefront of some of the biggest marine projects in the southern hemisphere including a 130m vessel destined to be Tasmania’s largest ever single export.
 
The Role
As Systems Engineering Manager, you will lead and manage Incat’s systems engineering functions, driving the design, planning, and delivery of vessel engineering across electrical, electronic, and mechanical disciplines.
This role demands very strong leadership,  bringing together diverse technical teams, setting clear expectations, and fostering accountability. You’ll work closely with the Project Management Office and production teams to ensure seamless systems integration, on-time project delivery, and uncompromising safety and quality standards.
 
Provide decisive and confident leadership in a high-pressure, complex build environment. Lead, coach, and motivate a team of 30–40, fostering cross-disciplinary capability and growth. Champion a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement, while remaining highly visible and approachable on the shop floor, respected for your hands-on, practical leadership.
 
Key Responsibilities
  • Lead all vessel systems activities across all remits of engineering. Ensuring safe, efficient, and timely delivery
  • Oversee installation of major components, ensuring strict compliance with design and manufacturer specifications
  • Collaborate closely with PMO and production teams to align schedules, resources, and sequencing for optimal workflow
  • Drive continuous improvement initiatives in planning, processes, and execution
  • Provide clear technical leadership and guidance across multidisciplinary teams
  • Manage contractors and suppliers to uphold quality and control costs
 
Requirements
You don’t need a maritime background — success comes from proven leadership in multi-system engineering environments where electrical, mechanical, and systems integration come together. We’re particularly interested in candidates from aerospace, defence, specialist automotive builds, rail and rolling stock projects, or complex manufacturing and engineering consultancies.
 
  • Engineering degree (or equivalent), with strong mechanical engineering knowledge highly regarded
  • Proven ability to lead large, multidisciplinary teams in complex project environments
  • Strong technical expertise across both systems and mechanical engineering disciplines
  • Experience in works planning, scheduling, and project management
  • A hands-on, methodical, and safety-first leadership style
 
Benefits
  • The chance to lead large-scale, high-tech marine projects you’ll be proud to own
  • Fast decision-making environment free from heavy bureaucracy
  • The opportunity to influence and shape systems and processes for future growth
If you are interested, please click apply or email emmao@sde.com.au 

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