SMD invests in future with 14 new hires

Global subsea engineering and manufacturing company Soil Machine Dynamics (SMD) has welcomed 14 staff.

Its recruitment drive includes three engineers, three managers, two co-ordinators, four apprentices and a field services technician.

SMD credits its 50-plus years of success to the talent and innovative nature of its team.

New senior development engineer Kathryn Magee has a wealth of experience in the sector, while graduate Aaliyah Malek has joined as an associate tender engineer.

Mike Jones, chair, said: “It’s a pleasure to welcome fresh talent here at SMD.

“We recognise our team is invaluable in maintaining our status as industry leaders and our strong company culture reflects this.

“Our pioneering engineers help us to harness the potential from the most challenging subsea environments and in light of exciting market developments, now is a perfect time to join us.”

Elliott Clark, Joe Blades and Robbie Moore have joined the company at its Wallsend headquarters as technician production apprentices.

Their new roles provide an opportunity to earn a level three qualification in manufacturing engineering with Tyne North Training, while also gaining practical, hands-on experience alongside the highly skilled team at SMD. Additionally, Tom Beezer has joined as a commissioning apprentice in partnership with Port of Tyne, and will be working towards a degree in engineering.

On the new hires, production, planning and logistics supervisor, Chris Beckwith, said: “It’s really important for SMD to bring new talent into its workforce by investing in apprentices. We combine on-the-job training with academic learning, refining specific skills and maximising the development of our trainees.

“We are committed to giving young people the best education and experience, as we aim to set them up with skills for life. The subsea market is picking up following the pandemic and for us, advancing our apprentices is more crucial than ever.”

SMD’s marketing and HR departments also added new hires to support further business growth.

Julie Nicholson has joined as HR manager and Nicola Short has stepped in as marketing manager to cover maternity leave.

SMD has positioned 2023 as a year of continued growth and has plans to invest further in the recruitment of new staff and maintain its upwards trajectory. To browse its latest positions, visit: https://www.smd.co.uk/careers/current-vacancies/