Mechanical Design Lead - Fitout

Austal•Mobile, AL

About The Position

Austal USA is seeking a Mechanical Design Lead to oversee drawing development and lead Designers I–IV and Draftspersons. The role works with Production Management and internal and external cross-functional design teams, including business partner representatives, customer representatives, and equipment manufacturers. It reviews drawing adequacy, directs corrections to meet customer requirements, establishes design policies and procedures, and trains team members to established standards. The lead also provides employee feedback and performance input, reviews schedules and training, manages vacation approvals to maintain staffing, and contributes to departmental training budgets. The position sets work schedules and performance standards for assigned employees, prioritizes jobs as directed by department leadership, and is responsible for complying with applicable company and government safety and environmental rules. The work environment may include humidity, bright flashing lights, moving mechanical parts, high or precarious places, outdoor weather, extreme heat, occasional fumes or airborne particles, toxic or caustic chemicals, and heat or cold. Noise is usually very loud, above 90 dB.

Requirements

  • Ten years of shipyard design and construction experience, ten years of 3D modeling experience, or equivalent related maritime or production experience.
  • One to three years of experience leading design teams of five or more people.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills.
  • Understanding of work scheduling processes and ability to adhere to strict deadlines.
  • Ability to interact positively with Production managers, design teams from multiple companies, customer representatives, and equipment manufacturers.
  • Strong knowledge of AutoCAD, ShipConstructor, or other 3D modeling software.
  • Computer literacy with Microsoft Office software.
  • Thorough understanding of vessel design in one or more of these areas: structure, HVAC, mechanical systems, wire ways, or fitout.
  • Must be at least 18 years old at the time of application.
  • Must be able to provide proof of US Person Status.
  • Must meet the stated criminal conviction eligibility guidelines: no felony convictions for Theft/Deception or Violent crimes within seven years from disposition, and no felony convictions for Drug crimes within three years from disposition.
  • Must be willing to submit to a drug screen and background check.

Nice To Haves

  • Associate of Arts degree in CAD.
  • Experience in the construction of high-speed aluminum vessels.
  • Knowledge of modular construction methods.
  • Knowledge of the design and construction of US Navy vessels.

Responsibilities

  • Develop drawings as assigned by the Chief Department Engineer, Project Department Manager, Department Engineer III, or Project Engineer.
  • Lead and direct Designers I–IV and Draftspersons to meet department deadlines.
  • Work with Production Management, internal and external cross-functional design teams, business partners, customer representatives, and equipment manufacturers.
  • Review the technical adequacy of drawings and direct corrections or adjustments to meet customer requirements.
  • Establish policies related to design concepts and procedures.
  • Train Designers I–IV and Draftspersons according to established standards and procedures.
  • Provide constructive employee feedback and input into performance management that may affect employment actions.
  • Review and approve employee schedules, including vacation time, to ensure adequate resources are available.
  • Review and approve employee training and provide input to the department budget for subordinate training needs.
  • Set work schedules and performance standards for assigned Designers and Draftspersons, and prioritize jobs as directed by department leadership.
  • Comply with company, federal, state, and local safety and environmental rules and regulations.
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