1

Keel Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Keel information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$8

$25

$59

How much do keel jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for keel in Raleigh, NC is $25.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.64 and $29.74 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a keel?

A keel is the structural backbone of a boat or ship, running along the bottom from the bow to the stern. It provides crucial stability, helping to prevent the vessel from capsizing by counteracting the lateral force of the wind on the sails. The keel also improves the vessel's ability to move in a straight line through the water, known as tracking. In sailboats, the keel often contains ballast to lower the center of gravity and further enhance stability.

What are some common challenges faced by a keel welder in the shipbuilding industry?

As a Keel Welder in shipbuilding, one common challenge is working in confined or awkward spaces under strict safety protocols, which requires adaptability and attention to detail. The role often involves collaborating closely with other welders and marine engineers to ensure precise alignment and structural integrity of the keel, the ship’s backbone. Meeting tight deadlines while maintaining high-quality standards and adhering to regulatory requirements can also present pressure, but teamwork and clear communication help overcome these hurdles. Staying updated on the latest welding techniques and safety procedures is essential for success and advancement.

What is the difference between Keel vs Marine Engineer?

AspectKeelMarine Engineer
Primary RoleStructural component of a ship's hullMaintains and repairs ship engines and mechanical systems
Required CredentialsNone specific; related to shipbuilding and designMarine engineering degree or certification
Work EnvironmentShip construction sites, shipyardsOnboard ships, shipyards, repair facilities
Industry UsageShipbuilding, naval architectureMaritime transportation, shipping companies

The key difference is that a keel is a structural part of a ship's hull, providing stability, while a marine engineer is a professional responsible for maintaining and repairing a ship's engines and mechanical systems. The keel is a physical component, whereas a marine engineer is a skilled worker or engineer working in the maritime industry.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a keel, and why are they important?

I'm sorry, but 'Keel' is not a recognized real-world professional occupation and therefore I cannot provide an answer to your request.
What job categories do people searching Keel jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Keel jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
Infographic showing various Keel job openings in Raleigh, NC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 9% Nights. Highlights an 88% In-person, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,960 per year, or $25.5 per hour.

Application Development Engineer

Keel Labs

Morrisville, NC • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Keel Labs began in 2017 as AlgiKnit, creating ocean-focused materials built from renewable resources. In 2022, Keel Labs was established as a platform for innovation, broadening our vision for the potential of the ocean to accelerate our planet's development towards a more sustainable future. Driven by the exploration of novel resources from the ocean, Keel Labs functions as a hub for the next generation of climate-focused solutions derived from nature.
So, though our name has changed, our mission remains the same: Keel Labs works at the nexus of design, science, and engineering to create impact-driven materials harnessing the power of the ocean.
Keel Labs is looking for a talented and motivated individual to support the growth and operation of our Research and Development team at our Morrisville office. The Application Development Engineer, along with the Research and Development Director will act as a liaison between our R&D and Business Development team. This position will provide critical support to our ongoing upstream development efforts and act as the go-to technical person for yarn and fabric development.
Our employees gain a unique and fulfilling experience by developing and executing hands-on approaches to sustainably-minded strategies in a dynamic start-up environment. Our team members benefit from a small, close-knit working environment as all facets of our business are done collaboratively in our shared facilities.
Responsibilities:
  • Assist Application Development Lead to develop existing and potential applications related to textile industry including nonwoven and technical textile.
  • Design experiments, execute trials, collect and interpret data to inform upstream business development team and work closely with the production team to resolve technical issues.
  • Identify equipment and processing issues impacting finished product quality, and performance while working with cross-functional teams on problem resolution and solution implementation.
  • Implement technical documentation packages, including raw material specifications, product specifications, stability, and general technical data to support the introduction of new products.
  • Knowledge of AATCC/ASTM/ISO standards methods to support product testing when required.
  • Cascade customer feedback to internal product specifications and recommend/perform necessary tests.
  • Perform additional duties as assigned by the Research and Development Director.

Required Skills and Qualifications:
  • BS, with MS preferred, in textile engineering, material science engineering, or related discipline
  • 2+ years working experience preferably within textile development
  • Prior experience in yarn/fabric development including dyeing and finishing and testing methodologies
  • Experience working with cross-functional teams and facilitating teams to identify and implement solutions to ongoing issues
  • Abile to effectively communicate in both technical and non-technical details to internal and external stakeholders
  • Self motivated, adaptable, and detail oriented
  • Thrive in a fast paced, ever-changing, and often challenging environment

Employment: Full-time
Location: Morrisville, NC