1

Naval Architect Jobs (NOW HIRING)

MANTECH seeks a motivated, career and customer-oriented Naval Architect. The candidate must be located within a commutable distance to Washington DC to allow for periodic on-site collaboration. In ...

MANTECH seeks a motivated, career and customer-oriented Naval Architect. The candidate must be located within a commutable distance to Washington DC to allow for periodic on-site collaboration. In ...

MANTECH seeks a motivated, career and customer-oriented Naval Architect. The candidate must be located within a commutable distance to Washington DC to allow for periodic on-site collaboration. In ...

A naval architect designs, builds and maintains boats and ships. * These vessels can range widely in size from small combatant craft to large aircraft carriers. * Naval architects are also ...

A naval architect designs, builds and maintains boats and ships. * These vessels can range widely in size from small combatant craft to large aircraft carriers. * Naval architects are also ...

A naval architect designs, builds and maintains boats and ships. * These vessels can range widely in size from small combatant craft to large aircraft carriers. * Naval architects are also ...

Naval Architect

San Diego, CA · On-site

$32.30 - $39.50/hr

Summary: The Naval Architect will provide full-time onsite support for equipment and systems to include Naval Architecture, coatings, watertight enclosures, and docking evolutions. Duties and ...

Naval Architect

San Diego, CA · On-site

$32.30 - $39.50/hr

Summary: The Naval Architect will provide full-time onsite support for equipment and systems to include Naval Architecture, coatings, watertight enclosures, and docking evolutions. Duties and ...

Naval Architect

San Diego, CA · On-site

$32.30 - $39.50/hr

Summary: The Naval Architect will provide full-time onsite support for equipment and systems to include Naval Architecture, coatings, watertight enclosures, and docking evolutions. Duties and ...

Naval Architect

Jamul, CA · On-site

$32.30 - $39.50/hr

Summary: The Naval Architect will provide full-time onsite support for equipment and systems to include Naval Architecture, coatings, watertight enclosures, and docking evolutions. Duties and ...

Naval Architect

San Diego, CA · On-site

$32.30 - $39.50/hr

Summary: The Naval Architect will provide full-time onsite support for equipment and systems to include Naval Architecture, coatings, watertight enclosures, and docking evolutions. Duties and ...

MANTECH seeks a motivated, career and customer-oriented Naval Architect. The candidate must be located within a commutable distance to Washington DC to allow for periodic on-site collaboration. In ...

MANTECH seeks a motivated, career and customer-oriented Naval Architect. The candidate must be located within a commutable distance to Washington DC to allow for periodic on-site collaboration. In ...

MANTECH seeks a motivated, career and customer-oriented Naval Architect. The candidate must be located within a commutable distance to Washington DC to allow for periodic on-site collaboration. In ...

Naval Architect

Washington, DC · On-site

$77K - $128K/yr

MANTECH seeks a motivated, career and customer-oriented Naval Architect. The candidate must be located within a commutable distance to Washington DC to allow for periodic on-site collaboration. In ...

MANTECH seeks a motivated, career and customer-oriented Naval Architect. The candidate must be located within a commutable distance to Washington DC to allow for periodic on-site collaboration. In ...

MANTECH seeks a motivated, career and customer-oriented Naval Architect. The candidate must be located within a commutable distance to Washington DC to allow for periodic on-site collaboration. In ...

Naval Architect

El Cajon, CA · On-site

$32.30 - $39.50/hr

Summary: The Naval Architect will provide full-time onsite support for equipment and systems to include Naval Architecture, coatings, watertight enclosures, and docking evolutions. Duties and ...

Naval Architect

Escondido, CA · On-site

$32.30 - $39.50/hr

Summary: The Naval Architect will provide full-time onsite support for equipment and systems to include Naval Architecture, coatings, watertight enclosures, and docking evolutions. Duties and ...

Naval Architect

Spring Valley, CA · On-site

$32.30 - $39.50/hr

Summary: The Naval Architect will provide full-time onsite support for equipment and systems to include Naval Architecture, coatings, watertight enclosures, and docking evolutions. Duties and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Naval Architect information

See salary details

$19.5K

$94.3K

$143K

How much do naval architect jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for naval architect in the United States is $94,251.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,000.00 and $112,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Naval Architect, you need a strong background in naval engineering, hydrodynamics, and structural analysis, usually supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software, ship design programs like Rhino or AutoCAD, and knowledge of regulatory standards such as SOLAS are essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and clear communication skills set outstanding professionals apart in this field. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and innovative vessel designs that meet technical and regulatory requirements.

What do you do as a naval architect?

A naval architect designs, develops, and oversees the construction of ships, boats, and other marine vessels. They create detailed plans and specifications, perform stability and safety analyses, and use CAD software to ensure vessels meet performance and regulatory standards. Strong knowledge of hydrodynamics, materials, and engineering principles is essential in this role.

Is there a demand for naval architects?

Naval architects are in demand in the maritime industry, especially in shipbuilding, defense, and offshore engineering sectors. Employment opportunities often depend on regional industry activity, project pipelines, and the ability to work with CAD software and marine design standards.

What is the difference between Naval Architect vs Marine Engineer?

AspectNaval ArchitectMarine Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, naval architecture certificationEngineering degree, marine engineering certification
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, shipyards, research facilitiesShip engines, onboard, repair yards
Industry UsageShip design, construction, and safetyEngine systems, propulsion, maintenance

Naval Architects focus on the design and structural integrity of ships, ensuring safety and compliance. Marine Engineers handle the operation, maintenance, and repair of ship machinery and engines. Both roles require engineering credentials and often work within the maritime industry, but their core responsibilities differ significantly.

What are naval architects?

Naval architects are engineering professionals who design, construct, and maintain ships, boats, and other marine vessels and structures. They combine knowledge of engineering, hydrodynamics, materials science, and design to ensure vessels are safe, efficient, and fit for their intended purpose. Naval architects work on a variety of projects, from commercial ships and warships to offshore structures and yachts, collaborating closely with marine engineers and other specialists throughout the project lifecycle.

What's the average salary of a naval architect?

The average salary of a naval architect in the United States is approximately $80,000 to $120,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer. Entry-level positions typically start around $60,000, while experienced professionals with specialized skills can earn over $150,000. Certifications and proficiency with design software like AutoCAD or Rhino can influence earning potential.

How much is a naval architect paid?

The average salary for a naval architect varies by experience and location but typically ranges from $70,000 to $120,000 annually. Entry-level positions may start around $60,000, while experienced professionals with specialized skills can earn over $150,000. Salaries often depend on the complexity of projects and the employer's size and industry.

What Is a Naval Architect?

As a naval architect, you design, maintain, and repair naval equipment including boats and other water vehicles. With technical and scientific knowledge of physics and materials, engineering, and architecture concepts, you manage the equipment that boat builders or engineering companies need. You design ships and utilize computer software to manage projects and create blueprints. Along with a team of experts from other specialties, you build and test scale models and prototypes of ships. The focus of naval architecture is on form, function, and stability of ship components. Examining and diagnosing problems with ships is another component of naval architecture, and maintenance and testing duties often happen on the water.

How do Naval Architects typically collaborate with other engineering disciplines during a ship design project?

Naval Architects often work closely with marine engineers, structural engineers, and systems specialists throughout the ship design and construction process. This collaboration involves regular meetings to coordinate aspects such as hull design, propulsion systems, stability calculations, and safety compliance. Effective teamwork is essential to ensure that all technical requirements are met and that the final vessel is both seaworthy and efficient. Open communication and a willingness to integrate feedback from various disciplines are crucial skills for success in this role.
What cities are hiring for Naval Architect jobs? Cities with the most Naval Architect job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Naval Architect jobs? The most popular types of Naval Architect jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Naval Architect jobs? The top employers for Naval Architect jobs are:
What states have the most Naval Architect jobs? States with the most job openings for Naval Architect jobs include:
Naval Architect

$77K - $128K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


ManTech rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

32nd of 188 rated software companies


Job description

Description & Requirements
Shape the future of defense with MANTECH! Join a team dedicated to safeguarding our nation through advanced tech and innovative solutions. Since 1968, we've been a trusted partner to the Department of Defense, delivering cutting-edge projects that make a real impact. Dive into exciting opportunities in Cybersecurity, IT, Data Analytics and more. Propel your career forward and be part of something extraordinary. Your journey starts now-protect and innovate with MANTECH!
***This is for a future opportunity***
MANTECH seeks a motivated, career and customer-oriented Naval Architect. The candidate must be located within a commutable distance to Washington DC to allow for periodic on-site collaboration.
In this role, you will apply your expertise in naval architecture and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to support the design, analysis, and optimization of hovercraft, ships, and other maritime systems. This position plays a critical part in ensuring performance, efficiency, and safety across a variety of naval platforms.
Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
  • Performing a wide variety of naval architecture design and analysis activities related to hovercraft, ships, boats and other marine systems in support of MANTECH's military and commercial customers.
  • Performing computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and finite element analyses (FEA) to assess system performance characteristics assessments, validate system adequacy, and optimize system design.
  • Working collaboratively with goal-oriented project teams, including other engineers, program managers, and CAD designers to validate design assumptions, refine system-level performance, and develop project deliverables.
  • Manages task requirements and work execution timelines through development of Plans of Action and Milestones (POA&Ms) with minimal guidance from supervisor.
  • Documenting technical findings in well-organized and comprehensive reports and presenting results to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Naval Architecture, Ocean Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related field
  • 3+ years of experience in naval architecture with a focus on CFD applications
  • Proficiency in CFD software such as Star-CCM+, ANSYS Fluent, OpenFOAM, or similar tools, and in FEA software such as Femap, NASTRAN, ANSYS or similar.
  • Strong understanding of fluid mechanics, hydrodynamics, and maritime systems
  • Experience with CAD and 3D modeling tools
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills for technical documentation and presentations
  • Ability to utilize spreadsheets to program first-principle and empirical design equations. Ability to generate high-quality design and analysis reports as well as the ability to interpret experimental data and validate simulation results.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience with model testing, sea trials, or hydrodynamic test facilities
  • Familiarity with U.S. Navy ship design standards and practices
  • Experience with programming or scripting (Python, MATLAB) for automation and post-processing
  • Experience working with composite materials, including basic understanding of materials and fabrication, and development of fabrication layup details and ply tables
  • Active participation in industry conferences or publications related to naval hydrodynamics

Clearance Requirements:
  • Must hold an Active Secret Clearance.

Physical Requirements:
  • Must be able to remain in a stationary position 50%
  • Needs to occasionally move about inside the office to access file cabinets, office machinery, etc.
  • Frequently communicates with co-workers, management, and customers, which may involve delivering presentations. Must be able to exchange accurate information in these situations
  • Ability to travel and perform ship inspections, including climbing and descending ladders.

The projected compensation range for this position is $77,200.00-$128,800.00. There are differentiating factors that can impact a final salary/hourly rate, including, but not limited to, Contract Wage Determination, relevant work experience, skills and competencies that align to the specified role, geographic location (For Remote Opportunities), education and certifications as well as Federal Government Contract Labor categories. In addition, MANTECH invests in its employees beyond just compensation. MANTECH's benefits offerings include, dependent upon position, Health Insurance, Life Insurance, Paid Time Off, Holiday Pay, short-term and long-term Disability, Retirement and Savings, Learning and Development opportunities, wellness programs as well as other optional benefit elections.
MANTECH considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to disability or veteran status or any other status protected under any federal, state, or local law or regulation.
If you need a reasonable accommodation to apply for a position with MANTECH, please email us at [email protected] and provide your name and contact information.

What ManTech employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom