David Brown Defence Launches Major Recruitment Campaign in Huddersfield

E3 Recruitment appointed as exclusive recruitment partner to support the hiring of over 50 skilled professionals.

David Brown Defence, part of the global David Brown Santasalo group, has launched a significant recruitment campaign to support continued growth within its marine division at its Huddersfield site. The campaign will see the business recruit 51 Mechanical Fitters, 4 Cell Leaders, and a variety of additional skilled professionals to support the manufacture of critical gearbox systems used in global naval and defence operations.

As the  exclusive recruitment partner, E3 Recruitment is delivering the full campaign on behalf of David Brown Defence, managing candidate attraction, engagement, application processing, and ongoing onboarding support.

Strengthening the UK’s Defence Manufacturing Capability

With a proud heritage spanning over 100 years, David Brown Defence has long been recognised for its contribution to engineering innovation within the defence sector. The Huddersfield facility plays a central role in the global supply of precision-engineered gearboxes for naval vessels and land-based military platforms.

The business is currently experiencing a major uplift in demand for its marine gearbox systems, which has led to a need for additional skilled professionals across both shopfloor and technical disciplines. The scale and complexity of the products manufactured at David Brown Defence is world-leading, with full assemblies weighing up to 85 tonnes and requiring meticulous precision throughout the build process.

Leanne Crowther, Head of HR at David Brown Defence, commented:

“This is an exciting period of growth for David Brown Defence, and we’re proud to be expanding our team with a range of skilled roles that are critical to delivering high-performance gear systems for defence applications worldwide. We’re looking for people who take pride in their craft, who want to work on meaningful projects, and who value teamwork and precision. By partnering with E3 Recruitment, we’re ensuring candidates receive a seamless and supportive recruitment experience from start to finish.”

A Variety of Skilled Roles Available

This latest recruitment drive covers both hands-on and technical roles, including:

• Mechanical Fitters – responsible for the build and assembly of large, high-spec gear systems used in marine applications
• Cell Leaders – managing teams and ensuring safe, efficient delivery across the production floor
• CNC Machinists & CNC Grinders – supporting complex machining of large, precision components
• Maintenance Engineers – delivering preventive and reactive support to maintain operational uptime
• Design Engineers – working on the development of new and existing gearbox systems
• Planners/Schedulers & Project Managers – coordinating resources and managing delivery across customer and internal requirements

All roles offer the opportunity to contribute to globally significant engineering programmes while building a long-term career within a world-class manufacturing environment.

Competitive Pay and Benefits

Roles are permanent and full-time, with a strong benefits package that includes:

• Competitive base salaries
• Shift premiums up to 46.25%
• 25 days holiday plus bank holidays
• Health Shield benefits
• Death in service cover
• Christmas shutdown
• Ongoing development and progression opportunities

With several shift options available – including Double Day, Night Shift, and Continental – the company can accommodate candidates looking for different working patterns to suit their lifestyle or experience level.

E3 Recruitment has partnered with David Brown Defence to deliver a comprehensive recruitment campaign designed to reach and engage engineering professionals across West Yorkshire and beyond.

Matt Booth, Associate Director at E3 Recruitment, added:

“We’re incredibly proud to be supporting David Brown Defence through this exciting phase of growth. The scale of this recruitment drive reflects the company’s reputation as a key player in defence manufacturing, and it offers a brilliant opportunity for skilled candidates to join a globally respected organisation right here in Huddersfield.”

Join the Team

Applications are now open, with roles available for immediate start.
Email: dbdefence@e3recruitment.com
Call: 01484 645 269
Or click here to apply online

Please be aware that many roles working for DB Defence will be subject to both security and export control restrictions. These restrictions mean that factors including your nationality, any previous nationalities you have held, and your place of birth may limit those roles you can perform for the organisation.

You must meet Right to Work in the UK criteria and achieve the required security and clearance requirements to undertake this role.

About David Brown Defence

David Brown Defence is a global leader in engineered gear systems. The Huddersfield site specialises in the manufacture of large-scale gearboxes for naval and defence customers, combining centuries of engineering experience with a commitment to innovation, safety, and quality.

About E3 Recruitment

E3 Recruitment is a specialist engineering and manufacturing recruitment agency based in West Yorkshire. With deep-rooted expertise across heavy industry, defence, and advanced manufacturing, E3R partners with some of the UK’s most respected industrial employers to deliver full-scale recruitment solutions that connect technical talent with long-term opportunity.