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Shipyard Test Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AMERICAN SYSTEMS

Waterfront Test Manager

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Coordinate shipyard test support amongst NSWC-PD Codes * Interface with shipyard test management ... A graduate of a trade, industrial or correspondence school for engineering and have 19 years of ...

AMERICAN SYSTEMS

Waterfront Test Manager

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

Coordinate shipyard test support amongst NSWC-PD Codes * Interface with shipyard test management ... A graduate of a trade, industrial or correspondence school for engineering and have 19 years of ...

AMERICAN SYSTEMS

Waterfront Test Manager

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$70K - $82K/yr

Coordinate shipyard test support amongst NSWC-PD Codes * Interface with shipyard test management ... A graduate of a trade, industrial or correspondence school for engineering and have 19 years of ...

American Systems

NY · On-site

$70K - $82K/yr

Coordinate shipyard test support amongst NSWC-PD Codes * Interface with shipyard test management ... A graduate of a trade, industrial or correspondence school for engineering and have 19 years of ...

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Shipyard Test Engineer information

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$59.5K

$75K

$89K

How much do shipyard test engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for shipyard test engineer in the United States is $75,000.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,500.00 and $82,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a shipyard test engineer?

Shipyard Test Engineers are professionals responsible for planning, executing, and overseeing tests on ships and marine systems during construction or repair in shipyards. They ensure that all systems—such as propulsion, navigation, and safety equipment—meet regulatory and performance standards before a vessel is delivered or returned to service. Their work involves coordinating with design, production, and quality teams, troubleshooting technical issues, and documenting test results. Shipyard Test Engineers play a crucial role in maintaining the safety, reliability, and efficiency of maritime vessels.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a shipyard test engineer?

To thrive as a Shipyard Test Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, familiarity with ship systems, and typically a bachelor’s degree in mechanical, electrical, or marine engineering. Experience with testing protocols, diagnostic tools, safety standards, and proficiency in software like AutoCAD or shipyard-specific management systems is often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial for collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and ensuring accurate test results. These skills are vital for maintaining safety, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency in the shipbuilding and repair process.

What are some common challenges shipyard test engineers face during sea trials, and how can they prepare for them?

Shipyard Test Engineers often encounter challenges during sea trials such as unexpected equipment malfunctions, rapidly changing weather conditions, and the need to troubleshoot complex systems under tight schedules. Preparing thoroughly by reviewing test procedures, coordinating closely with both engineering and operations teams, and having contingency plans in place can help mitigate these challenges. Familiarity with regulatory requirements and clear communication skills are also essential, as they ensure tests are both compliant and efficient, even when issues arise unexpectedly.

What is the difference between Shipyard Test Engineer vs Shipyard Quality Control Inspector?

AspectShipyard Test EngineerShipyard Quality Control Inspector
CertificationsTypically requires NDT certifications, API certifications, or relevant engineering credentialsUsually holds QA/QC certifications, such as ASQ certifications
Work EnvironmentInvolves testing and validation of ship components, often in labs or on-site during constructionFocuses on inspecting ship parts and assemblies during manufacturing and assembly
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly employed by shipbuilders, marine engineering firms, and defense contractorsUsed by shipyards, marine maintenance companies, and quality assurance departments

The Shipyard Test Engineer primarily conducts testing and validation of ship components, ensuring they meet technical standards, while the Shipyard Quality Control Inspector focuses on inspecting and verifying the quality of ship parts during construction. Both roles are essential in maintaining safety and quality in shipbuilding projects, often requiring similar certifications and working within the same industry environment.

What are popular job titles related to Shipyard Test Engineer jobs?

For Shipyard Test Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Shipyard Test Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,000 per year, or $36.1 per hour.

Nuclear Test Electrical Engineer

Groton, CT • On-site

General Dynamics Electric Boat
Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing • 10K+ employees
Learn more about General Dynamics Electric Boatexternal

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Posted 15 days ago

General Dynamics Electric Boat rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 166 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

136th of 547 rated manufacturers

Job description

Overview

Nuclear Test Electrical Engineering is responsible for proper installation and testing of reactor plant electrical systems, including Instrumentation and Control (I&C) systems. The candidate for Test Engineer I/II/Sr/Spec will work closely with Nuclear Test Operations (NTO), Ship’s Force personnel (SFO), and various organizations at Electric Boat to support building and testing the nuclear electrical systems on board new construction Virginia- and Columbia-class submarines. Candidates must complete a qualification program for Nuclear Test Engineer, Electrical, which involves learning about and discussing various aspects of Nuclear Test Engineering, submarine I&C systems, and shipyard test procedures.

Specific responsibilities include:

  • Initial commissioning of propulsion plant I&C systems
  • Troubleshooting and problem resolution for I&C deficiencies
  • Developing and executing technical work documents for system energization and alignment
  • Recommending, completing, and documenting appropriate retests for repairs and modifications
  • Working with Engineering to resolve technical issues
  • Coordination with Nuclear Test Operations, US Navy personnel, and various Electric Boat trades to execute installation and repair of electrical systems
  • Use and maintenance of computer-based test equipment for propulsion plant I&C systems
Qualifications

Required:

  • High school diploma or GED
  • Nuclear Power and/or Testing experience or a Bachelor's degree in Engineering may be accepted in lieu of experience
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret clearance

Preferred:

  • Experience in testing and/or Naval Nuclear Propulsion
  • Qualification as EOOW/EWS
  • Experience testing and operating electrical/electronic I&C systems
  • Experience troubleshooting I&C systems/equipment
  • Active DoD Secret Clearance
Skills
  • Strong interpersonal, organizational and communication skills
  • Ability to perform independently, as well as interact with other groups and organizations in a team environment
Physical Qualifications

Climbing, Color Vision, Kneeling, Light Lifting, Reaching

Environmental Attributes

Cold, Dry, Dusty, Hot, Inside, Noise, Oily

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