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Senior Naval Architect Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Naval Architect

Chesapeake, VA ยท On-site

$120K - $145K/yr

TMMG is seeking a Senior Naval Architect to support the Engineering Design Team (EDT) in delivering high-quality, execution-focused engineering solutions across commercial and naval shipbuilding ...

As a Senior Naval Architect, you will be a critical contributor to the design and delivery of the Node's hull - performing stability, weights, and seakeeping analyses; developing structural and ...

Senior Naval Architect

Bethesda, MD ยท On-site

$100K - $135K/yr

Job Title Senior Naval Architect Location Bethesda, MD 20800 US (Primary) Category Research, Development, and Engineering Job Type Full-Time Career Level Staff Education Master's Degree Travel ...

As a Senior Naval Architect, you will be a critical contributor to the design and delivery of the Node's hull - performing stability, weights, and seakeeping analyses; developing structural and ...

Job Overview We are seeking a talented and motivated Senior Naval Architect to support the design, analysis, and development of autonomous surface vessels. This role will provide hands-on experience ...

As a Senior Naval Architect, you will be a critical contributor to the design and delivery of the Node's hull - performing stability, weights, and seakeeping analyses; developing structural and ...

Senior Naval Architect

$107K - $195K/yr

As part of the naval architecture department, you will tackle new and evolving ship design and integration engineering challenges by applying naval architecture principles, techniques, calculations ...

DC ยท On-site

$115/hr

Cydecor is seeking a Senior Naval Architect to provide support to a Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) customer. This role will support the analysis, evaluation, and oversight of technical and design ...

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Senior Naval Architect information

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$74K

$123.9K

$191.5K

How much do senior naval architect jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior naval architect in the United States is $123,935.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $99,500.00 and $141,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Senior Naval Architect vs Naval Engineer?

AspectSenior Naval ArchitectNaval Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Naval Architecture or Marine Engineering, professional certificationsBachelor's or Master's in Marine Engineering or Naval Architecture, similar certifications
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, shipyards, research facilitiesShipyards, manufacturing plants, design firms
Industry UsageDesigning ships, submarines, offshore structuresDeveloping ship systems, structural analysis, project implementation

While both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, Senior Naval Architects focus on the overall design and conceptualization of vessels, whereas Naval Engineers are more involved in the technical implementation and systems integration. The roles often overlap but differ mainly in scope and seniority level within the ship design and construction process.

What are some typical challenges faced by Senior Naval Architects when leading multidisciplinary teams on complex vessel projects?

Senior Naval Architects often coordinate with engineers, designers, and project managers to ensure vessel designs meet performance, safety, and regulatory standards. A common challenge is balancing technical requirements with client expectations and budget constraints, all while adhering to tight project timelines. Effective communication and strong leadership are essential in resolving conflicts and integrating feedback from different disciplines. Navigating regulatory approvals and managing design changes during the project lifecycle also require adaptability and attention to detail.

What does a Senior Naval Architect do?

A Senior Naval Architect is responsible for the design, construction, and maintenance of ships, submarines, and other marine vessels and structures. They use advanced engineering principles to ensure that vessels are safe, efficient, and meet regulatory requirements. Their work often involves overseeing design teams, performing stability and hydrodynamics analyses, and coordinating with shipyards and clients to ensure successful project delivery. Senior Naval Architects play a key role in innovating solutions for both commercial and military maritime needs.

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

To thrive as a Senior Naval Architect, you need advanced expertise in marine engineering, hydrodynamics, and structural design, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree and significant industry experience. Proficiency with CAD software, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) tools, and regulatory standards like IMO and SOLAS is essential. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and effective communication skills set top performers apart in this role. These skills ensure safe, innovative, and cost-effective vessel designs while facilitating effective collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and stakeholders.
More about Senior Naval Architect jobs
What cities are hiring for Senior Naval Architect jobs? Cities with the most Senior Naval Architect job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Naval Architect jobs? The most popular types of Naval Architect jobs are:
What states have the most Senior Naval Architect jobs? States with the most job openings for Senior Naval Architect jobs include:
Infographic showing various Senior Naval Architect job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 82% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $123,935 per year, or $59.6 per hour.
Senior Naval Architect

Senior Naval Architect

TMMG

Chesapeake, VA โ€ข On-site

$120K - $145K/yr

Full-time

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

Description:$120,000 - $145,000 per year
Sign on bonus: $2500


Background check, US Citizenship, CAC, and a confidential clearance are requirements for this position. Travel is 20%.


TMMG is seeking a Senior Naval Architect to support the Engineering Design Team (EDT) in delivering high-quality, execution-focused engineering solutions across commercial and naval shipbuilding programs. This role is not purely theoretical design. The right candidate understands how engineering translates to the deckplates โ€“ bridging design, production, testing, and delivery. You will be expected to step into active shipyard environments, resolve real-world engineering challenges, and ensure design products are executable, compliant, and aligned with ship construction and modernization efforts. This position supports both new construction and modernization programs, including NAVSEA, MSC, and commercial vessel platforms.

Requirements:

Key Responsibilities1. Naval Architecture & Structural Engineering Execution

โ€ข Perform and lead structural and naval architectural analyses for ship systems, foundations, and modifications

โ€ข Conduct DDAM shock analysis, static and dynamic Finite Element Analysis (FEA), and load path evaluations

โ€ข Develop and validate shock-qualified designs for shipboard equipment and systems

โ€ข Ensure compliance with NAVSEA design practices, classification society rules (ABS), and contract requirements

2. 3D Modeling & Digital Engineering Integration

โ€ข Develop and manipulate 3D ship models using tools such as Rhino, SolidWorks, ShipConstructor, or equivalent

โ€ข Translate legacy drawings and incomplete data into accurate, buildable 3D models

โ€ข Support design-to-production alignment, ensuring models reflect real installation conditions

โ€ข Identify clashes, interferences, and constructability issues early

3. Technical Design Package (TDP) Development & Review

โ€ข Develop, review, and redline Technical Design Packages (TDPs) including:

o Drawings

o Calculations

o Reports

o Installation details

โ€ข Validate engineering products for technical accuracy and shipboard applicability

โ€ข Support Engineering Change Documents (ECNs/ECPs) and configuration control

4. Shipyard & Waterfront Integration

โ€ข Conduct ship checks, inspections, and onboard validation of systems and structures

โ€ข Work directly with production teams to:

o Resolve installation issues

o Address non-compliance conditions

o Eliminate rework and delays

โ€ข Act as the interface between engineering, production, and program stakeholders

5. Shock, Survivability & Compliance Engineering

โ€ข Lead or support DDAM shock analysis for mission-critical systems

โ€ข Evaluate shock mitigation strategies, isolation systems, and structural reinforcement

โ€ข Ensure designs meet shock, vibration, and survivability requirements

โ€ข Support resolution of shock trial deficiencies and non-compliance issues

6. Program & Technical Leadership

โ€ข Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers

โ€ข Support cross-functional coordination with:

o Shipyards

o Program offices

o Classification societies

o Government stakeholders

โ€ข Participate in technical reviews, design reviews, and risk assessments


Physical Job Requirements

โ€ข Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.

โ€ข Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at a time.

โ€ข Must be able to access and inspect all areas of machinery.


Education/Certification Requirements

โ€ข Bachelorโ€™s Degree in Naval Architecture or Marine Engineering from a recognized and accredited naval architecture program

(Mechanical Engineering degrees will not be considered for this role)

โ€ข 10+ years of experience in naval and/or commercial shipbuilding environments

โ€ข Demonstrated experience supporting NAVSEA, MSC, or major U.S. shipyards

โ€ข Strong background in ship structures, systems integration, and vessel design execution

โ€ข Ability to travel approximately __% of the time

โ€ข U.S. Citizenship required; Active Secret Clearance preferred


Preferred Experience

โ€ข Experience supporting programs such as:

o LCS (Littoral Combat Ship)

o Aircraft Carrier (CVN) RCOH or new construction

o MSC auxiliary vessels


โ€ข Experience with:

o DDAM shock analysis and NAVSEA 3010 compliance

o FEMAP / Nastran or equivalent FEA tools

o Rhino 3D, SolidWorks, AutoCAD, ShipConstructor


โ€ข Background in:

o Ship modernization / overhaul programs

o Mechanical, hydraulic, or auxiliary systems integration

o Structural surveys and condition assessments


Key Competencies

โ€ข Strong understanding of shipbuilding execution and sequencing

โ€ข Ability to translate engineering into buildable solutions

โ€ข High attention to detail with practical problem-solving mindset

โ€ข Ability to operate independently in fast-paced shipyard environments

โ€ข Strong communication skills and able to work across engineering, production, and leadership teams


What Success Looks Like in This Role

โ€ข Engineering products are accurate, executable, and aligned with shipyard reality

โ€ข Reduced rework and field issues due to strong upfront engineering validation

โ€ข Rapid resolution of technical issues impacting production and testing

โ€ข Effective integration of design, construction, and test requirements

โ€ข Contribution to on-time vessel delivery and mission readiness


Why TMMG

TMMG is not a staffing firm - we are a shipbuilding execution integrator. Our engineers embed directly with shipyards and programs to solve problems early, reduce risk, and deliver results.



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About TMMG

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Water transportation

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Chesapeake, VA, US

Year founded

2008