Naval Architect

Ghostworks Marine•Holland Charter Township, MI

About The Position

The Naval Architect designs, analyzes, and oversees marine vessels and structures, with an emphasis on structural integrity and performance. The role calls for strong technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and the ability to discuss structural issues in depth with internal teams, clients, regulatory bodies, and suppliers. The position combines structural design and analysis with broader naval architecture work, including stability, resistance and propulsion calculations, general arrangements, outfitting plans, and weight control. It also supports construction and commissioning and contributes to project planning, scheduling, and budget management. Designs must comply with applicable maritime regulations and standards, and the Naval Architect collaborates with multidisciplinary teams while keeping up with developments in naval architecture and marine engineering.

Requirements

Bachelor's or master's degree in Naval Architecture, Ocean Engineering, or a closely related field from an ABET-accredited institution.
5–7 years of progressive naval architecture experience, with significant focus on structural design and analysis in the marine industry.
Ability to engage in high-level technical discussions and clearly explain complex structural engineering topics to diverse audiences.
Proficiency with 3D CAD software such as Rhino, SolidWorks, or AutoCAD, and naval architecture software such as Maxsurf, GHS, or ShipConstructor.
Strong experience with FEA software such as ANSYS, NASTRAN, or LS-DYNA.
In-depth knowledge of marine classification society rules, such as ABS, DNV, or LR, and maritime regulations such as SOLAS and MARPOL.
Understanding of marine construction techniques, materials including steel, aluminum, and composites, and fabrication processes.
Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.

Nice To Haves

Professional Engineer (PE) license or ability to obtain one.
Experience with advanced composite materials and structures.
Project management experience.
Experience with vessel types relevant to the company's focus, such as commercial fishing vessels, patrol boats, Great Lakes freighters, or tugboats.

Responsibilities

Perform structural analyses of marine vessels and components using first principles, FEA software, and other computational tools.
Develop and optimize structural designs, considering weight, strength, stability, vibration, and fatigue.
Prepare structural drawings, specifications, and calculations for classification society approval and construction.
Conduct scantling calculations and select materials in accordance with applicable marine standards.
Lead technical discussions about vessel structures with clients, project managers, production teams, regulatory bodies, and vendors.
Explain structural concepts, design rationale, and trade-offs to technical and non-technical stakeholders.
Review third-party structural designs and calculations and provide feedback and recommendations.
Participate in design reviews, risk assessments, and structural problem-solving sessions.
Conduct hydrostatics and intact and damaged stability analyses, and perform resistance and propulsion calculations.
Develop general arrangements and outfitting plans, and perform weight estimations and control.
Assist in developing construction specifications and support construction and commissioning.
Collaborate with marine, mechanical, and electrical engineers and production staff.
Contribute to project planning, scheduling, and budget management for assigned design tasks.
Ensure designs comply with applicable international and national maritime regulations and standards.
Stay current with new technologies, materials, and methods in naval architecture and marine engineering.