Head of Engineering & Operations

The Vacancy

Trinity House is a unique organisation with a rich history and a vital role in supporting the safety of mariners around the coast of England, Wales, the Channel Islands and Gibraltar. As we continue to deliver our ambitious Lighting the Way to 2035 strategy.

We are seeking an experienced and forward-thinking Head of Engineering & Operations based primarily in our Harwich offices, to lead our engineering, projects and technical operations functions and help shape the future of our engineering assets, infrastructure and operational capabilities.

As a member of the Senior Management Team reporting to the Director of Operations, you will provide strategic leadership across engineering operations, capital projects, asset management and technical service delivery, ensuring our assets and infrastructure remain safe, reliable, resilient and aligned to organisational priorities.

About The Role

This is a pivotal leadership position with responsibility for engineering, project delivery and technical operations across a diverse and nationally significant asset portfolio.

You will lead the delivery of major engineering and infrastructure programmes, oversee asset management and lifecycle planning, and ensure that engineering activities continue to meet the highest standards of safety, performance and environmental compliance. The role encompasses leadership of Lighthouse Technician teams based in Harwich, Swansea and St Just, alongside Buoy Yard operations in Harwich and Swansea.

Working closely with senior stakeholders across the organisation, you will balance operational priorities with long-term strategic objectives, driving continuous improvement, supporting innovation and providing expert leadership on complex engineering challenges. You will play a key role in shaping the future direction of Trinity House and influencing significant investment decisions.

What We're Looking For

We are seeking an exceptional engineering leader who can combine strategic thinking with operational delivery in a complex, asset-intensive environment.

You will bring significant leadership experience gained within relevant engineering disciplines, together with a strong track record of delivering major engineering programmes. Proven experience in one of more of civil engineering, systems engineering, technology programme management, control and instrumentation engineering is essential.

You will be an effective communicator with excellent stakeholder management skills, capable of influencing at all levels and translating complex technical issues into practical business decisions. We are looking for a visible and credible leader who is resilient, adaptable and solutions-focused, with the ability to develop high-performing teams and foster a positive, inclusive culture.

Above all, you will share our commitment to safety, engineering excellence and continual improvement.

What We Can Offer

This is a rare opportunity to lead the Engineering division that directly contribute to the safety of navigation around our coastline.

You'll have the opportunity to shape the future of engineering and operations within a nationally significant maritime organisation, influence strategic decision-making at a senior level and have responsibility for major engineering and infrastructure programmes. You'll lead talented technical teams across multiple disciplines and locations.

In return, you'll join an organisation that successfully combines heritage, innovation and public service, offering a strong sense of purpose alongside the opportunity to make a lasting contribution to our future success.

We Offer

• Competitive salary and pension scheme.
• Hybrid and flexible working arrangements.
• Generous annual leave entitlement.
• Professional development and leadership learning opportunities.
• A collaborative and supportive working environment.
• The opportunity to work for a unique organisation with a proud heritage, a vital public purpose and an ambitious vision for the future.

Join us

If you're an experienced engineering leader looking for an opportunity to make a meaningful impact within a unique operational environment, we'd love to hear from you.

Join Trinity House and help us continue delivering engineering excellence, operational resilience and innovation in support of safe navigation around our coastline.

Benefits

About us

Up to 28.97% employer pension contributions

25 – 30 days holiday + 3.5 privilege days for shore-based colleagues

‘Hybrid’ and flexible working where possible

24/7 Employee Assistance Programme

Further details around employee benefits can be found in this booklet.