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Ship Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Leidos

Naval Architect

Washington, DC · On-site

$69K - $125K/yr

Overall ship design integration * Requirement's development * Executing naval architecture analyses. * Working with multi discipline teams to lead overall ship development and design integration.

Leidos

Senior Naval Architect

Washington, DC · On-site

$107K - $195K/yr

Overall ship design integration * Requirement's development * Executing naval architecture analyses. * Working with multi discipline teams to lead overall ship development and design integration.

Leidos

Naval Architect

Washington, DC · On-site

$87K - $157K/yr

Overall ship design integration * Requirement's development * Executing naval architecture analyses. * Working with multi discipline teams to lead overall ship development and design integration.

Leidos

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 ...

Leidos

Naval Architect

$87K - $157K/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 ...

Leidos

Naval Architecture Intern

New York, NY · On-site

$48K - $86K/yr

As an intern in the naval architecture department, you will tackle new and evolving ship design and integration engineering challenges by applying naval architecture principles, techniques ...

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How much do ship design jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for ship design in the United States is $25.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.95 and $28.37 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive in Ship Design, a strong background in naval architecture, marine engineering, and computer-aided design (CAD) is essential—typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Proficiency with specialized software such as AutoCAD, Rhino, or ShipConstructor, and familiarity with classification society standards and regulatory requirements, are commonly required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication set standout candidates apart in this collaborative field. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and innovative vessel designs that meet client needs and regulatory guidelines.

What is a Ship Design job?

A Ship Design job involves creating the blueprints and specifications for various types of vessels, including cargo ships, naval ships, and passenger boats. Ship designers work with naval architects and marine engineers to ensure vessels meet safety, efficiency, and regulatory standards. They use specialized software to develop hull structures, propulsion systems, and stability features. This role requires knowledge of hydrodynamics, materials science, and marine engineering principles. It is a crucial part of the shipbuilding process, ensuring functionality, performance, and durability at sea.

How much does a ship designer make?

Ship designers typically earn between $60,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of projects. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced designers or those working on large vessels can earn higher salaries, often supplemented by benefits and bonuses.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Ship Design professional?

A Ship Design professional's day often involves developing detailed ship plans using CAD software, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams including structural engineers and project managers, and reviewing design specifications to ensure compliance with industry standards. You may also participate in client meetings to discuss requirements, revise designs based on feedback, and assist with calculations related to vessel stability, strength, and performance. Managing documentation and working closely with shipyards during the construction phase is common. This role requires balancing creativity with rigorous technical analysis to produce innovative, seaworthy vessels.

How do you become a ship designer?

To become a ship designer, typically a bachelor's degree in naval architecture, marine engineering, or a related field is required. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions, developing skills in CAD software, and obtaining professional certification can enhance career prospects in ship design.

What is the highest paid design job?

In ship design, senior roles such as Lead Ship Designer or Naval Architect with extensive experience and advanced certifications tend to have the highest salaries. These positions often require expertise in CAD software, engineering principles, and project management, and they can earn significantly more than entry-level roles.

What job designs ships?

A ship designer is responsible for creating the plans and specifications for ships, including hull form, structure, and systems. They use CAD software and naval architecture principles to develop safe, efficient vessels that meet client and regulatory requirements. Ship designers often work closely with engineers and shipbuilders throughout the design and construction process.
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Ship Design jobs near you
Design Specialist

Design Specialist

National Steel and Shipbuilding Com

San Diego, CA • On-site

$116K - $171K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Job Posting End Date: Until Filled 

Shift:                               1st 

Security Clearance:      No Clearance

SUMMARY

We are seeking an Electrical Designer to support the development and integration of shipboard electrical systems. The successful candidate will be responsible for creating detailed electrical 3D models, wiring diagrams, cable routing plans, and equipment layouts in accordance with applicable maritime standards and project specifications. This role involves close collaboration with engineers and other design disciplines to ensure accurate and efficient documentation for power distribution, lighting, control, and communication systems aboard vessels. Proficiency with CAD tools (such as AVEVA, Ship Constructor, SolidWorks, NX, 3D AutoCAD or Revit), knowledge of marine electrical systems, and familiarity with regulatory standards (ABS, IEEE, IEC) are required. Experience in shipbuilding or marine design environments is highly desirable. 

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Able to skillfully complete products with little to no supervision or technical oversight. Anticipates roadblocks and mitigates their impact based on experience

  • Identifies and applies state of the art solutions to complex problems

  • Serves as focal point for discussing the organization’s agreed technical position with external-to-engineering SMEs and representatives (such ABS surveyors, Production Superintendents, Managers, Deputy Ship Design Managers)

  • Coordinates and facilitates working groups, including driving to decisions, and determining follow on actions

  • Identifies needs for additional training/guidance for individuals in the team and the need for mentoring

  • Mentors their department on advanced technical principles, theories and concepts

  • Understands context for creation and prior applications of requirements (such as rules, regulations, contracts, and references) as well as requirements at the periphery of a given technical situation and related prior variations on those requirements

  • Other responsibilities and duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Bachelor's Degree, and/or associate's degree in CAD; four (4) years of shipbuilding experience can substitute for education. In addition to one of the prior requirements, at least twelve (12) years of related experience, in the maritime industry is preferred

  • Detailed experience and knowledge of a given discipline's or subdiscipline's state-of-the-art in U.S. shipbuilding

  • Strong knowledge of PC and CAD applications, with knowledge in AVEVA Unified Engineering products being preferred

  • Qualifying skills include contributing to the department's team environment with a consistently positive attitude, a mindset to actively seek improving oneself, teammates, and work processes, initiative, accountability, commitment, and flexibility to changing assignments and processes

PHYSCIAL DEMANDS

The essential functions of this role require work in both an office and industrial setting. The role requires prolonged periods of working in a stationary position, operating a computer, computer programs, and standard office equipment necessary to perform the essential duties. The role requires perceiving information and communicating effectively with others in person, online, and on the phone. The role also requires prolonged periods of working in indoor and outdoor industrial settings.  Must have the ability to safely access, navigate, and traverse the shipyard, construction areas, production areas, ships, and warehouses. Must be able to transit uneven surfaces, and be agile to move quickly to avoid hazards and respond to unexpected obstacles. Must be able to observe, detect, identify, perceive, recognize, and process information to remain alert and timely comply with all safety requirements. Must be able to move, transport, and use equipment necessary to perform the essential duties. Duties performed on ships require ascending and descending stairs and ladders, transiting on scaffolding and at heights, transiting through manholes and other narrow, confined, or congested spaces. This position requires exposure to industrial areas which contain hazardous materials, loud noise (including sirens, horns, chipping, slamming, and hammering), dust, fumes, and exposure to weather. 

PAY SCALE 

$116,900 - $171,000 

This pay range is a reasonable estimate of the salary range for this role. It takes into account the wide range of factors considered in making compensation decisions; including but not limited to skill sets, experience, training, and education. General Dynamics NASSCO also provides a variety of benefits including medical & dental insurance coverage, 401(k) retirement savings plan, flexible spending accounts/HSAs, life and disability insurance, company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO), wellness coaching, and an onsite health services. 

General Dynamics NASSCO is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status, or any other basis protected by local, state, or federal law.

To learn more about applicant rights under federal law, click here:

Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal

If you have a disability that impacts your ability to complete the job application process and would like to request an accommodation, please contact our Human Resources Department.

Call (619) 544-8511 or email nasscohr@nassco.com. This contact information is for accommodation requests only, not to inquire about the status of applications.

NASSCO is an Equal Opportunity / Individuals with Disabilities / Protected Veterans Employer

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