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Ship Electrical Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Bollinger Shipyards

Electrical Designer

Lockport, LA · On-site

Electrical Designer Location: Lockport, LA Position Overview: An Electrical Designer uses research ... Electrical Ship Constructor Parts. * Capturing Drawing impacts when changes are needed and ...

ManTech

Electrical Designer

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

Design and modify power distribution, communications and control systems for shipboard systems ... Ensure all designs adhere to ABYC, Navy and DoD electrical codes. * Site Support: Conduct site ...

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Ship Electrical Designer information

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$39

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How much do ship electrical designer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for ship electrical designer in the United States is $39.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.49 and $44.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Ship Electrical Designer do?

A Ship Electrical Designer is responsible for designing and planning the electrical systems that power and control all aspects of a ship. This includes creating wiring diagrams, selecting appropriate components, and ensuring that all systems meet safety and regulatory standards. They work closely with engineers, naval architects, and other designers to integrate electrical systems with the ship’s overall design. Their work ensures that navigation, communication, lighting, propulsion, and other critical systems operate reliably and efficiently at sea.

What is the difference between Ship Electrical Designer vs Marine Electrical Engineer?

AspectShip Electrical DesignerMarine Electrical Engineer
CredentialsRelevant electrical certifications, CAD skillsElectrical engineering degree, professional engineer license
Work EnvironmentDesign offices, shipyards, CAD softwareShipboard, engineering offices, testing facilities
Industry UsagePrimarily in design and drafting of electrical systemsInvolved in installation, testing, and maintenance of electrical systems
Common Search/ComparisonShip Electrical Designer vs Marine Electrical Engineer

While both roles focus on electrical systems in ships, the Ship Electrical Designer primarily handles the design and drafting of electrical layouts using CAD tools, whereas the Marine Electrical Engineer is involved in the installation, testing, and maintenance of electrical systems onboard ships. The designer's work is more office-based, while the engineer's role often involves on-site work and system troubleshooting.

What are some common challenges Ship Electrical Designers face when working on new vessel projects?

Ship Electrical Designers often encounter challenges such as integrating complex electrical systems within limited spatial constraints and ensuring compliance with maritime safety regulations. Coordinating with naval architects, mechanical engineers, and shipyard personnel is crucial to align electrical layouts with the overall vessel design. Additionally, adapting to evolving technology and client-specific requirements requires flexibility and strong problem-solving skills. These challenges make collaboration and clear communication essential parts of the daily workflow.

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

To thrive as a Ship Electrical Designer, you need a solid background in electrical engineering principles, marine systems, and typically a relevant engineering degree or diploma. Familiarity with CAD software (such as AutoCAD or ShipConstructor), electrical analysis tools, and compliance with maritime regulations and standards is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help in coordinating with multidisciplinary teams and addressing complex design challenges. These skills are crucial for creating safe, reliable, and efficient electrical systems that meet regulatory and operational requirements in shipbuilding projects.
Infographic showing various Ship Electrical Designer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,505 per year, or $39.2 per hour.

Marine Designer

Wess Technical Services Llc

Newport News, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Our client located in Newport News, VA is seeking an Electrical Designer. This individual will be developing 2D drawings and 3D models of Ship Electrical Systems including power, lighting, internal communications/alarms, and controls.  Design will be done using AutoCAD, Intergraph, or Shipconstructor.

Required Education/Skills/Experience:

  • Naval / Marine / Shipbuilding Electrical System design experience required; Defense product background preferred
  • Experience with U.S. Naval design desirable.
  • Minimum of 1 years of experience in Marine / Shipbuilding is required including development of detail design products and drawings for ship construction and modification.
  • 10+ years experience is preferred 
  • Competency in AutoCAD is required
  • Competency in ShipConstructor is beneficial
  • Must be eligible to work in the US without sponsorship and able to pass a drug test and background check

Responsibilities:

  • Responsible for development of detail design products and drawings for ship construction and modification
  • Areas of responsibility include Power Supply, Power Distribution, Circuit Breakers, Electrical Panels, Transformers, Switches, Control Systems, Cable Routings, and Communication Systems.