Senior/Principal Designer (Heavy Machinery)

Title:

KBR is expanding our national capability and we’re looking for a Senior / Principal Designer (Heavy Machinery) to join our Adelaide team to support the delivery of complex engineering solutions across industrial and defence sectors.

If you enjoy working across multidisciplinary projects, leading technical design outcomes, and operating in a collaborative, high-performing engineering environment — we’d love to hear from you.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the design and delivery of heavy machinery systems, including conveyors, cranes, and material handling equipment
• Develop and review 3D models and detailed drawings using AutoCAD Plant 3D (essential)
• Ensure designs comply with relevant engineering standards, codes, and project requirements
• Coordinate design inputs across multidisciplinary teams, including mechanical, structural, and electrical
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior designers and drafters
• Review and interpret engineering specifications, vendor data, and technical documentation
• Contribute to design reviews, risk assessments, and constructability reviews
• Support client engagement, technical discussions, and project coordination meetings
• Assist with site activities, including inspections and technical verification where required

Skills & Experience Required:

• 8+ years’ experience in design and drafting, with a focus on heavy machinery systems
• Proven experience designing conveyors, cranes, or similar mechanical/industrial equipment
• Strong proficiency in AutoCAD Plant 3D (mandatory)
• Experience with additional CAD tools such as Revit (advantageous)
• Demonstrated ability to lead design activities and coordinate across disciplines
• Strong understanding of engineering standards, compliance, and safety requirements
• Ability to operate effectively in complex, multidisciplinary project environments
• Clear communicator who builds strong relationships and thrives in a team-focused culture

Security & Eligibility Requirements:

• Australian Citizenship (mandatory)
• Ability to obtain and maintain an Australian Government Baseline Security Clearance
• Willingness to work on Defence-related projects in line with security protocols

About KBR:

At KBR, we deliver real solutions with real impact — from national Defence programs to critical infrastructure projects. You’ll join a supportive, people-first environment with opportunities to grow, lead, and innovate.

• Work on high-profile industrial and defence projects
• Industry-recognised technical leadership and expertise
• Flexible working arrangements
• Strong wellbeing and team culture
• Clear pathways for leadership or technical advancement

KBR is renowned for working in partnership with our clients and construction partners to deliver exceptional outcomes, underpinned by our collaborative approach and “One Team” philosophy.

KBR values:

Our KBR Values - We Value Our People, We Deliver, We Are People of Integrity, We Empower, We Are a Team of Teams - embody our people centric organisation.

Our culture, and our genuine focus on our people is a major factor in our success and we want you to be part of our journey. 

Curious about the exciting projects and what life is like at KBR Adelaide?

Check out our videos and see for yourself:

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Shape tomorrow by applying today!

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