In 2025, marine and naval roles in Plymouth offer exciting career opportunities with salaries ranging from £60000 to £95000 per year. Whether you are looking for hands-on work aboard ships and submarines or shore-based roles in engineering and logistics, these positions provide valuable experience, professional growth, and a strong sense of purpose.
Most roles are physical, requiring you to be present on-site, but some research and administrative positions offer flexible schedules. Working in this sector is not just a job it’s a chance to contribute meaningfully to national security while building a fulfilling career.
Overview of Marine & Naval Jobs in Plymouth:
Marine and naval roles in Plymouth encompass a wide range of positions in engineering, operations, logistics, research, and command. Key positions include:
- Naval Officers & Command Roles: Leading ships, submarines, or specialized naval units.
- Marine Engineers: Maintaining advanced machinery and naval systems.
- Logistics & Supply Chain Specialists: Ensuring smooth operations across naval bases.
- Maritime Security Experts: Protecting naval assets, ports, and maritime trade routes.
- Research & Development Professionals: Innovating defense systems and maritime technology.
These roles offer a unique blend of challenge, prestige, and personal growth.
Average Salary:
Marine and naval professionals in Plymouth can expect annual salaries between £60,000 and £95,000, depending on experience, specialization, and rank. Senior officers and specialized engineers often earn above this range, reflecting the skill and responsibility required.
Companies Hiring Marine & Naval Roles in Plymouth:
Several top employers in Plymouth are actively hiring for marine and naval positions in 2025:
- Babcock International: Offers engineering, technical, and production roles at Devonport Naval Base.
- Serco: Supports Royal Navy operations with positions in vessel engineering and maintenance.
- Princess Yachts: Recruits marine engineers, repair specialists, and marina operations staff.
- Morson Group: Provides contract-based roles in marine engineering and shipbuilding.
- Royal Navy: Hiring ratings and officers for operational and leadership positions.
- Maritime and Coastguard Agency: Offers surveyor, inspection, and administrative roles.
- Plymouth Sound National Marine Park: Opportunities in marine operations, sustainability, and engineering projects.
Benefits of Marine & Naval Jobs in Plymouth:
1. Competitive Salaries
With pay ranging from £60,000 to £95,000, professionals are rewarded for their expertise, experience, and leadership.
2. Career Progression
Structured promotion paths allow for steady growth from junior roles to senior command positions.
3. Professional Training & Development
Access to world-class training facilities, workshops, and certifications ensures continuous skill enhancement.
4. Work-Life Balance
While some roles demand travel and deployments, many positions offer flexible schedules and leave benefits.
5. Cutting-Edge Technology
Work with advanced marine machinery, naval systems, and defense innovations.
6. Job Stability
A steady demand for skilled professionals in defense and maritime sectors ensures long-term career security.
7. Networking Opportunities
Collaborate with experts in engineering, strategy, logistics, and international maritime operations.
8. Strategic Location
Plymouth’s naval bases and shipyards make it an ideal location for marine and naval professionals.
9. Global Exposure
Certain roles offer international deployments, exercises, and collaboration with allied naval forces.
10. Contribution to National Security
Professionals play a critical role in protecting the UK’s waters and maritime interests worldwide.
Required Skills & Qualifications:
Success in marine and naval roles typically requires:
- Educational Background: Degrees in maritime engineering, naval architecture, defense studies, or logistics.
- Technical Skills: Knowledge of naval machinery, marine systems, navigation, or cybersecurity for defense applications.
- Leadership & Teamwork: Essential for operational efficiency and mission success.
- Problem-Solving & Decision-Making: Quick thinking under pressure is highly valued.
Certifications in maritime safety, navigation, defense technology, or environmental marine management are often required.
Work Environment:
Marine and naval professionals may work on ships, submarines, naval bases, or research facilities. Roles can involve:
- Routine maintenance and monitoring of ships and equipment.
- Operational planning and execution of maritime exercises.
- Collaborating with civilian agencies and international partners.
While some positions require deployments at sea, shore-based roles in engineering, logistics, and research offer a more stable environment.
How to Apply for Marine & Naval Jobs in Plymouth?
- Research Roles: Find positions that match your skills on official naval and marine job portals.
- Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet educational, certification, and fitness requirements.
- Prepare CV & Cover Letter: Highlight relevant experience, technical skills, and leadership.
- Submit Application: Apply online via Royal Navy Careers, Plymouth naval bases, or marine companies.
- Attend Assessments & Interviews: Complete tests, medical checks, and interviews.
- Training & Onboarding: Selected candidates undergo role-specific training.
Future Outlook:
The marine and naval sector in Plymouth is expected to expand due to increased defense investments, maritime infrastructure projects, and emerging technologies. Cyber-defense roles, renewable marine engineering, and environmental sustainability in naval operations are among the fastest-growing opportunities.
Conclusion:
Marine and naval roles in Plymouth in 2025 offer rewarding careers with salaries from £60 000 to £95 000, combining hands-on experience, technical expertise, and leadership opportunities. With top employers like Babcock, Serco, and the Royal Navy, professionals can enjoy career growth, stability, and global exposure. These positions provide the chance to contribute meaningfully to national security while advancing in a dynamic and prestigious sector.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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Can civilians work in naval roles?
Yes, civilian opportunities exist in engineering, administration, logistics, R&D, and environmental marine projects.
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Is prior experience necessary?
Some roles require prior experience, while graduate or entry-level positions provide training and career development opportunities.
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Do marine and naval roles require physical work?
Yes, many roles involve hands-on work aboard ships, submarines, or naval bases, though some administrative and research positions are less physically demanding.
