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Boat Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Freeman Boatworks

Design Engineer

Moncks Corner, SC · On-site

This role is responsible for designing, engineering, and refining boat structures and components that move efficiently from concept into production. The ideal candidate has a background in marine ...

Pursuitcollection

Boat Captain

Seward, AK · On-site

Our experiences include world-class attractions and distinctive lodges, all designed to highlight ... As a Boat Captain, you will operate and manage vessels, crew and passengers. You will be ...

Freeman Boatworks

Design Engineer

Moncks Corner, SC · On-site

This role is responsible for designing, engineering, and refining boat structures and components that move efficiently from concept into production. The ideal candidate has a background in marine ...

Yamaha

Industrial Designer

Kilgore, TX

$106K/yr

Designs upholstery patterns for interior boat parts and custom boat covers * Assists in prototype development and product testing * Prioritizes work duties and follow through on action items CAD ...

Freeman Boatworks

Design Engineer

Moncks Corner, SC

This role is responsible for designing, engineering, and refining boat structures and components that move efficiently from concept into production. The ideal candidate has a background in marine ...

Freeman Boatworks

Design Engineer

Moncks Corner, SC

This role is responsible for designing, engineering, and refining boat structures and components that move efficiently from concept into production. The ideal candidate has a background in marine ...

Orionvisual

Graphic Designer

Miami, FL

... bus, boat, car). This individual will utilize various production techniques, computer graphic ... creating designs, layouts and mockups. Excellent math skills important. Fluency in English, both ...

Yamaha Motor Corporation

Industrial Designer

Kilgore, TX · On-site

$106K/yr

Designs upholstery patterns for interior boat parts and custom boat covers * Assists in prototype development and product testing * Prioritizes work duties and follow through on action items CAD ...

Bennington

Master Boat Builder Apprentice

Elkhart, IN

$16.75 - $21.50/hr

... designs from blueprints and specifications Construct and install parts using various materials like wood, fiberglass, and metal Conduct quality checks to ensure the boat's seaworthiness and adherence ...

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Boat Designer information

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$35.5K

$83.1K

$110K

How much do boat designer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for boat designer in the United States is $83,148.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,000.00 and $109,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Boat Designer job?

A Boat Designer is responsible for creating the structural and aesthetic design of boats, ships, and other marine vessels. They use engineering principles, creativity, and specialized software to develop functional and visually appealing designs. Boat Designers consider factors such as materials, hydrodynamics, stability, and safety regulations to ensure optimal performance. They often collaborate with naval architects, engineers, and manufacturers throughout the design and production process.

What does a typical workday look like for a Boat Designer, and who do they collaborate with?

A typical day for a Boat Designer involves developing and refining design concepts, creating detailed technical drawings, and conducting design reviews or simulations. You’ll work closely with naval architects, engineers, and production teams to ensure designs meet structural, performance, and safety standards. Collaboration with clients and stakeholders is also common, often to clarify requirements or present new design ideas. This role can involve both desk-based CAD work and hands-on visits to shipyards or manufacturing sites to oversee prototypes and production.

How do I become a boat designer?

To become a boat designer, typically a bachelor's degree in naval architecture, marine engineering, or a related field is required. Gaining experience through internships, developing skills in CAD software, and building a portfolio of design projects are important steps in entering the profession.

What job designs boats?

A boat designer is responsible for creating the plans and specifications for boats, including hull shape, structure, and aesthetics. They use CAD software and engineering principles to develop functional and safe vessel designs, often collaborating with naval architects and marine engineers. Strong knowledge of materials, hydrodynamics, and industry standards is essential in this role.

What is someone who designs boats called?

A boat designer is a professional who creates the plans and specifications for boats, focusing on their form, function, and safety. They often have skills in naval architecture, engineering, and CAD software, and may work for boat manufacturers, design firms, or as independent consultants.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Boat Designer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Boat Designer, you need a strong background in naval architecture, mechanical design, and a solid understanding of hydrodynamics and materials, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency with CAD software such as Rhino, AutoCAD, and SolidWorks, as well as familiarity with industry standards and safety regulations, is essential. Strong communication, problem-solving skills, and creativity are vital for collaborating with clients and project teams. These skills ensure designs are both innovative and functional, meeting client expectations and safety requirements in a highly technical field.

Which designer is highly paid?

In the field of boat design, senior and specialized boat designers with extensive experience, advanced skills in CAD software, and certifications tend to earn higher salaries. Those working on luxury or custom yachts often have higher pay compared to entry-level designers. Salary levels can also vary based on the employer, location, and project complexity.
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Boat Designer jobs near you

Design Engineer

Freeman Boatworks

Moncks Corner, SC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Description:

Freeman Boatworks is seeking a Design Engineer with direct marine vessel design experience to support the development of our high-performance composite catamarans. This role is responsible for designing, engineering, and refining boat structures and components that move efficiently from concept into production.


The ideal candidate has a background in marine design and engineering, or hands-on boat design, and understands how designs translate to real-world boat building in a production environment. This is a highly collaborative, hands-on role where engineering decisions directly impact build quality, performance, and manufacturability.


What You’ll Do

Conceptual Design

  • Contribute to the conceptual design of a boats composite large parts, small parts and structural components for production boats
  • Develop and refine layouts and structural concepts that consider performance, strength, weight, and manufacturability

Engineering Development

  • Create detailed 3D models, assemblies, and 2D / 3D layout drawings using CAD software (Rhino 3D)
  • Maintain accurate and production-ready engineering documentation
  • Create and document revisions of core & fiberglass kits, including CNC programming using CAM software (Rhino Cam) and updating build schematics
  • Creation of 3D printed parts to be used in production as jigs, fixtures or finished parts
  • Mold design – work closely with our in-house tooling department & outside composite tooling companies

Structural Analysis & Optimization

  • Evaluate structural performance under operational loading conditions
  • Identify and implement design improvements to enhance durability, stiffness, and overall boat performance

Materials & Construction

  • Select appropriate composite materials, cores, and laminates based on performance, durability, and cost considerations
  • Design with a strong understanding of composite boat-building methods and production constraints

Prototyping & Production Support

  • Support prototype builds, first articles, and ongoing production
  • Collaborate closely with manufacturing teams to resolve design and build challenges

Cross-Functional Collaboration

  • Work with manufacturing, procurement, quality, and leadership to ensure smooth integration of design into production
  • Incorporate feedback from the shop floor into continuous design improvements

What We’re Looking For

  • Experience in Naval Architecture, Yacht Design, or a closely related marine-focused discipline
  • Demonstrated experience in Design Engineering within the marine industry
  • Strong understanding of composite boat construction
  • Proficiency in CAD / CAM software such as SolidWorks, Rhino 3D, Rhino Cam or similar platforms
  • Proven experience taking boat designs from concept through production
  • Strong problem-solving skills with a high level of attention to detail
  • Ability to work effectively in a hands-on, fast-paced production environment

What We Offer

  • Competitive compensation
  • Comprehensive benefits: medical, dental, vision, company-paid life & disability + more!
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • A collaborative, people-focused workplace built on craftsmanship and innovation

Please note: Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check and drug screening.

Requirements:


Apply