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Principal Naval Architect Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ocean Atomics LLC

Principal Naval Architect

$185K - $235K/yr

The Principal Naval Architect commands the hydrodynamic, structural, and spatial architecture of Ocean Atomics maritime systems design. You will serve as the technical authority charged with leading ...

CDI Corporation

Naval Architect

Glen Burnie, MD · Remote

Work under the supervision of Principal Naval Architect, Engineers & Project Managers to perform concept, preliminary, contract and detailed design and engineering support. * Understand engineering ...

Saronic

Staff/Principal Naval Architect

Austin, TX · On-site

$140 - $210/hr

Conduct naval architecture analyses including weight estimates, intact and damaged stability calculations, resistance and propulsion, seakeeping, and maneuvering * Collaborate with other engineers to ...

Ocean Atomics LLC

Director of Maritime Technical

$220K - $276K/yr

You direct fast-moving design iterations, guide the Principal Naval Architect and Principal Marine Engineer, and set the design criteria that clear classification society and flag state review. This ...

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Principal Naval Architect information

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$80.5K

$171.4K

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How much do principal naval architect jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal naval architect in the United States is $171,382.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $145,000.00 and $194,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a principal naval architect?

A Principal Naval Architect is a senior engineering professional responsible for leading the design, analysis, and development of ships and marine structures. They oversee project teams, ensure compliance with industry regulations, and provide technical expertise in areas such as stability, hydrodynamics, and structural integrity. This role often involves coordinating with clients, shipyards, and classification societies to deliver safe and efficient vessel designs. Principal Naval Architects also mentor junior engineers and contribute to research and innovation in marine technology.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a principal naval architect?

To thrive as a Principal Naval Architect, you need an expert understanding of ship design, marine engineering principles, and regulatory compliance, backed by a degree in naval architecture or a related field and extensive industry experience. Proficiency with CAD software, hydrodynamic analysis tools, and relevant certification from bodies like RINA or SNAME is expected. Leadership, project management, and strong communication skills are essential for guiding multidisciplinary teams and liaising with stakeholders. These competencies ensure the successful delivery of complex marine projects that meet safety, performance, and budgetary standards.

What are the daily responsibilities of a principal naval architect?

As a Principal Naval Architect, your daily responsibilities often include overseeing the design and analysis of ships and marine structures, reviewing technical drawings, ensuring regulatory compliance, and providing technical guidance to engineering teams. You will collaborate closely with project managers, engineers, and clients to address design challenges and propose innovative solutions throughout a vessel's lifecycle. Additionally, you may be involved in mentoring junior staff, conducting design reviews, and participating in project planning meetings. The role is highly collaborative and requires balancing technical duties with leadership and coordination across different project phases.

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Principal Naval Architect jobs near you
Infographic showing various Principal Naval Architect job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 61% In-person, 6% Hybrid, and 33% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $171,382 per year, or $82.4 per hour.

Principal Naval Architect

PacMar Technologies LLC

Honolulu, HI • On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

Job description

PacMar Technologies LLC, a privately-owned maritime engineering company, is seeking a Principal Naval Architect to join a group of talented Engineers, Scientists, and Innovators who have been Changing the Shape of Ships to Come for over 45 years. Remote work may be considered, though a preference will be given to candidates able to report to one of our established offices in Hawaii, Rhode Island or Maine.

If you think this opportunity is aligned with your career interests, do not hesitate to apply!

General Description:
The Principal Naval Architect will lead the design, analysis, and integration of marine vessels and offshore structures. This role involves overseeing complex technical projects, providing mentorship to junior engineers, and ensuring designs meet regulatory, performance, and client requirements. The ideal candidate is a licensed professional with deep expertise in hydrodynamics, structural design, stability analysis, and ship design standards.


Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

  • Lead and execute concept, preliminary, and detailed designs of ships and marine structures
  • Perform hydrostatic, hydrodynamic, and structural analyses using industry-standard tools (e.g., GHS, Rhino, Maxsurf, ANSYS, AutoCAD)
  • Ensure compliance with applicable classification society rules, flag state regulations, and customer specifications (e.g., ABS, DNV, USCG, NAVSEA)
  • Conduct and review stability analyses, weight estimates, and structural calculations
  • Prepare technical documentation including design reports, drawing packages, specifications, and test procedures
  • Serve as technical lead on major projects, coordinating with other engineering disciplines and managing scope, schedule, and budget
  • Provide mentorship and technical guidance to junior naval architects and engineers
  • Participate in design reviews, client meetings, and interface with shipyards and subcontractors
  • Support sea trials, inspections, and on-site engineering efforts as needed.
  • Complete other duties and projects assigned

Required Education/Experience/Skills:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Naval Architecture, Marine Engineering, or related field
  • Minimum 8–10 years of relevant experience in vessel design and analysis
  • Proficiency in naval architecture software (e.g., Rhino, GHS, Maxsurf, SolidWorks, AutoCAD)
  • Strong understanding of ship design principles, stability standards, and structural design methods
  • Excellent communication and leadership skills.

Desired Education/Experience/Skills:

  • Master’s degree in Naval Architecture or related discipline
  • Experience with military or government vessel programs (e.g., NAVSEA, USCG)
  • Professional Engineer (PE) license or equivalent certification (or ability to obtain within one year from hire)
  • Knowledge of composite or advanced materials
  • Familiarity with program management, proposal writing, or client development

Other Position Requirements:

  • Employment is contingent upon successfully passing an employee background check and post-offer drug screen
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen or permanent Resident of the U.S. due to Export Control purposes
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain security clearance if required by contract