Maritime Design Manager

Job Overview

The Design Manager is responsible for leading the technical development of ship construction and repair projects from concept through delivery. This role oversees engineering teams producing design drawings, models, and technical documentation, while ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements, project budgets, and performance standards. The Design Manager serves as a key liaison between engineering, production, project management, and external stakeholders.

Job Requirements

• Lead and manage functional and detailed engineering efforts for ship new builds and repairs, including structural, outfitting, and production design.
• Review and approve engineering deliverables such as general arrangements, midship sections, 3D models, and production drawings.
• Own and guide the overall technical solution for assigned projects, identifying and reporting technical risks to senior engineering leadership.
• Implement and manage quality control standards, engineering processes, and work instructions within the design team.
• Train, mentor, and develop engineering and drafting personnel.
• Ensure all designs comply with applicable Classification Society rules (e.g., ABS, DNV), national and international regulations (e.g., SOLAS), and client specifications.
• Coordinate with project management and production teams to resolve design issues during construction.
• Track engineering deliverables, schedules, and project documentation.
• Facilitate design reviews, client presentations, and provide regular progress updates.
• Support business development efforts, including concept design and technical proposal development.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Naval Architecture, Marine Engineering, or related discipline).
• 5-10+ years of experience in ship design or shipyard engineering, including leadership responsibility.
• Broad technical understanding of naval architecture, structures, propulsion and auxiliaries, electrical systems, and mission systems.
• Strong knowledge of ship systems such as structures, piping, HVAC, and marine electrical systems.
• Proficiency with AutoCAD, ShipConstructor, Microsoft Office, and electronic document management systems.
• Strong organizational, communication, and multitasking skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience leading complex ship design projects or engineering organizations.
• Background in U.S. naval, coast guard, or government vessel programs.

Physical & Work Requirements

• Ability to meet vision, color recognition, respiratory, and general physical requirements for shipyard and production environments.
• Capable of working in confined spaces, at heights, and in varied indoor/outdoor conditions.
• Willingness to wear required personal protective equipment and comply with all safety policies.
• Ability to maintain a work pace aligned with project schedules and deadlines.