The Difference Makers: Growing beneath the surface
What drives someone to design what few ever get to see? For Anna, it was a lifelong fascination with the ocean. For Martin, it was an inherited passion for problem-solving and the elegance of engineering. Today, they both work on technologies that operate beneath the surface, shaping the next generation of submarines at Saab.
Exploration and innovation go hand in hand at Saab’s naval division. From new graduates to experienced engineers, everyone’s encouraged to keep learning and discovering new ways to solve challenges together.
“As an engineer, I expected everything to be very structured. But there’s actually so much creativity involved,” says Anna. “You learn something new every single day,” adds Martin.
Meet the Difference Makers
Anna – Submarine Designer
- Master's Degree in Sustainable Energy Engineering from Luleå University of Technology
- Previously worked in the electricity network industry before joining Saab in Malmö
- Drawn to Saab’s unique blend of creativity and advanced engineering
- Passionate about maritime technology and seeing her designs come to life in production
Martin – Team Leader, Submarine Outfitting
- Master’s in Mechanical Engineering from LTH, Lund University
- Represents the second generation in his family to pursue engineering
- Specializes in outfitting, the precise placement and integration of components inside the submarine’s engine room
- Known for his mentorship and curiosity across disciplines, from fire safety to theoretical welding
A day at Saab
Designing a submarine is a journey of collaboration and discovery. Each project brings together specialists from across Saab, from designers and analysts to welders and builders, all contributing their expertise to the final result.
Anna’s role focuses on developing and optimizing components for production, ensuring each piece meets technical and safety requirements. She collaborates closely with manufacturing teams in Karlskrona, where submarines take physical form.
“It’s amazing to see something you’ve designed come to life,” Anna says. “We visit the shipyard regularly, and every time, it feels special because you see your work become part of something real.”
Martin, meanwhile, leads a team responsible for outfitting, the integration of complex systems within limited space. It’s work that blends mechanical precision with creative engineering.
“Delivering a fully functional submarine takes about ten years,” Martin explains. “It’s an enormous puzzle that involves almost every part of Saab. You’re constantly solving problems, learning from experts, and adapting to new challenges.”
Their satisfaction comes not from perfection, but from progress, and from seeing ideas grow into something real and purposeful.
What it’s like to work here (and why we like it)
At Saab, growth is a mindset.
For Anna, that meant moving from the energy sector to underwater defense, and finding a workplace where questions are welcomed and curiosity rewarded.
“It’s such a supportive environment. No one ever makes you feel like a burden when you’re learning.”
For Martin, Saab has offered different ways of growth. From taking specialized courses to mentoring new engineers and interns.
“It’s wonderful that Saab encourages you to try new things, even if it’s outside your everyday work,” he says. “That trust and openness make you want to contribute even more.”
Knowledge-sharing is part of everyday life. When projects cross disciplines, collaboration happens naturally, and everyone understands how their piece contributes to the bigger picture.
Why our work matters
Submarines operate in demanding conditions like high pressure and total darkness. For Anna and Martin, the goal is simple: to design systems that help people work safely and effectively.
“For me, the focus is always on safety, for the crews and for society,” Anna says.
“Everything we do contributes to protecting people who work in challenging conditions.”
Martin adds:
“Every part we design, every review we conduct, connects back to Saab’s mission of keeping people and society safe. It’s a reminder that our daily work truly matters.”
Their projects may take years to complete, but every milestone, big or small, reflects progress toward that mission.
Curious to see where a career at Saab can take you?
You can find your next opportunity and explore our open positions here.