Shipyard Program Manager Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Sign on bonus: $2500
Background investigation, US Citizenship, CAC, and a confidential security clearance are requirements for this position. Travel is 20%.
TMMG is seeking a mid-level Mechanical Engineer with strong design and shipyard experience to support our Engineering Design Team (EDT) in Chesapeake, VA. This role is not limited to traditional design work. It is built for an engineer who can operate across design, production, testing, and integration, helping shipyards execute work efficiently and correctly the first time.
The ideal candidate is comfortable working both in the office and on the deck plates, ensuring that engineering products are accurate, buildable, and aligned with real-world shipyard conditions. This position is designed to develop well-rounded engineers
Requirements
Key Responsibilities
1. Engineering Design & Drawing Development
• Develop, modify, and review 2D mechanical drawings (arrangements, fabrication details, system layouts)
• Produce and update drawings using AutoCAD or equivalent CAD platforms
• Interpret and apply P&IDs, system diagrams, and shipboard specifications
• Support development of installation drawings, isometrics, and as-built updates
• Ensure designs meet class (ABS), USCG, and NAVSEA requirements where applicable
2. Shipyard Production Support
• Interface directly with production teams, supervisors, and planners
• Validate that designs are buildable, sequenced correctly, and aligned with installation realities
• Identify and resolve interferences, access issues, and constructability gaps
• Support work package development and execution planning
• Provide real-time engineering support to minimize production delays
3. Engineering Change & Configuration Control
• Support development and tracking of Engineering Change Requests (ECRs) / ECNs
• Evaluate impacts of design changes on:
o Schedule
o Materials
o Installation sequencing
o Ensure configuration aligns with shipboard installation and contract requirements
4. System Integration & Coordination
• Coordinate across disciplines including:
o Structural
o Electrical
o Piping
o HVAC
• Ensure mechanical systems integrate properly within the overall vessel design
• Participate in model reviews, design reviews, and coordination meetings
5. Field Verification & As-Built Validation
• Conduct shipboard walkdowns to:
o Verify installed conditions
o Capture discrepancies between design and reality
o Update drawings to reflect true as-built conditions
o Support redline incorporation and drawing revision cycles
6. Test & Commissioning Support (Value-Add[JS1.1])
• Assist with system turnover, testing, and troubleshooting
• Support development or review of test procedures when needed
• Help ensure systems are ready for dock trials, sea trials, and delivery
7. Problem Solving & Continuous Improvement
• Identify inefficiencies in design or execution and recommend improvements
• Act as a bridge between engineering and production
• Provide practical, field-driven solutions
Physical Job Requirements
• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at a time.
• Must be able to access and inspect all areas of machinery
Education/Certification Requirements
Required Qualifications
• Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering
• 4-8 years of experience in commercial or naval shipbuilding
• Strong proficiency in:
o AutoCAD (required) or equivalent CAD software
• Ability to:
o Read and interpret 2D drawings, P&IDs, and technical specifications
o Work effectively in a shipyard environment (onboard vessels, industrial setting)
• Solid understanding of:
o Shipboard mechanical systems (HVAC, piping, auxiliary systems, etc.)
o Strong communication skills with the ability to engage both engineers and trades
Preferred / Desired Qualifications
• Experience with 3D modeling tools (e.g., ShipConstructor, AutoCAD 3D, SolidWorks, Rhino)
• Familiarity with:
o NAVSEA standards
o ABS and USCG regulatory requirements
• Experience supporting:
o New construction or repair/modernization programs
• Exposure to:
o Configuration management systems
o Work package development
• Experience working with:
o Production teams, planners, and test organizations
What Makes This Role Different
• This is not strictly an in-office design role.
• At TMMG, this engineer will:
o Potentially embed in real shipyard execution
o Potentially work directly with the people building the ship
o Influence schedule, quality, and delivery outcomes
• Gain exposure across:
o Design
o Production
o Testing
o Integration
Growth & Development Opportunities
• Exposure to multiple vessel types and shipyards
• Opportunity to expand into:
o Lead Engineer [JS2.1]roles
o Test & Trials support
o Project / Program Engineering
o Ability to grow into a technical leader or integrator role within TMMG
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.