Sr. Naval Architect
A leading maritime engineering and shipbuilding firm is seeking a Senior Naval Architect to support complex naval and commercial shipbuilding programs in Chesapeake VA. This is a hands‑on engineering role supporting both new construction and modernization efforts.
This position is not purely theoretical design. The successful candidate understands how engineering is applied on the deckplates - bridging design, production, testing, and delivery - and is comfortable operating in active shipyard and waterfront environments.
The Senior Naval Architect will be a key contributor to the Engineering Design Team, delivering buildable, compliant, and execution‑ready engineering solutions across naval and commercial platforms. The role supports programs involving NAVSEA, Military Sealift Command (MSC), and major U.S. shipyards.
Travel is approximately 20%.
Key Responsibilities:
- Perform shock analysis, including DDAM and Shock Boundary Analysis (SBA), to support shock‑qualified shipboard systems and structures.
- Conduct static and dynamic Finite Element Analysis (FEA) to evaluate structural integrity, load paths, and installation impacts.
- Develop, review, and maintain 3D models that accurately represent shipboard realities and construction sequencing.
- Utilize ShipConstructor for detailed ship production modeling, integration, and drawing development.
- Produce and modify drawings using AutoCAD, ensuring alignment with shipyard standards and fabrication practices.
- Provide mentorship to junior engineers.
- Bachelor's Degree in Naval Architecture or Marine Engineering from an accredited naval architecture program.
- 10+ years of experience in naval and/or commercial shipbuilding environments.
- Demonstrated experience supporting NAVSEA, MSC, or major U.S. shipyards.
- Strong background in ship structures, systems integration, and design execution.
- Ability to travel approximately 20%.
- U.S. Citizenship required; ability to obtain or hold a Secret clearance preferred.
- Background check, CAC eligibility, and confidential clearance required.
If this sounds like you, feel free to reach out to jack.walter@dsjglobal for a confidential conversation. I look forward to hearing from you!
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