Lead Mechanical Engineer

Job Description

Lead Mechanical Engineer

Permanent, Full Time

Hours: Mon – Fri | 40 hours (8am-5pm) + 1 in 4 week On-Call + Overtime

Location: MOD Whitehall, London

We’re recruiting a Lead Mechanical Engineer to join our building maintenance team dedicated to the Ministry of Defence estate in Whitehall.

This is a hands-on leadership role where you’ll take ownership of mechanical services across a complex government building, including legacy infrastructure, critical systems, and compliance-heavy assets. The environment requires an engineer who can confidently manage and improve older plant while maintaining reliability. You’ll act as the lead mechanical authority on-site, balancing day-to-day maintenance with project delivery in a zero-failure environment. Key systems include: HVAC & environmental systems (AHUs, chillers, pressurisation), Water systems (including hygiene & compliance), Heating & energy systems, Fuel storage and associated plant and a mix of modern and legacy mechanical infrastructure.

Ex-military engineers are highly desirable due to transferable experience: Royal Navy | British Army | Royal Marines

Key Responsibilities

• Take technical lead on all mechanical projects across the estate
• Deliver Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM) and reactive works on critical plant
• Manage and improve performance of legacy mechanical assets
• Ensure compliance with statutory regulations and contractual requirements
• Provide hands-on fault finding, troubleshooting, and technical support
• Oversee contractors and specialist service providers for project and maintenance works
• Prepare technical scope, recommendations, and quotations for remedial or project works
• Maintain high standards of safety, documentation, and reporting

What We’re Looking For

• Strong mechanical background in building services / FM
• Experience working with older/legacy plant and infrastructure
• Experience in critical environments (defence, healthcare, data centres, etc.)
• Hands-on knowledge of HVAC, water systems, pumps, valves, pipework
• Strong understanding of compliance and safe systems of work

Security Requirements:

Candidates must be sole UK eligible for DV clearance; they may start after SC clearance but will be shadowed on-site for around six months until DV is granted.

Interested? Apply now to take the lead on critical mechanical projects at MOD Whitehall.