Naval Architect

About the Opportunity

An established naval architecture and marine engineering firm is seeking a Naval Architect / Marine Engineer to join its Cleveland-area team. The firm provides conceptual design, engineering, and consulting services for existing vessel conversions, modifications, and retrofits.

This role offers the opportunity to develop practical engineering solutions alongside naval architects, marine engineers, electrical engineers, and designers.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop conceptual designs, preliminary arrangements, and feasibility studies for vessel conversions, modifications, and retrofits.
• Prepare engineering calculations, drawings, and specifications to support project execution.
• Evaluate existing marine machinery, equipment, and vessel systems and develop solutions for upgrades and integration.
• Prepare technical reports and documentation for client review and approval.
• Evaluate designs against applicable USCG, IMO, and classification society requirements.
• Coordinate with vessel owners, shipyards, equipment suppliers, and regulatory representatives.
• Manage assigned projects, including scope, schedules, budgets, and technical deliverables.
• Participate in vessel surveys and shipyard visits to assess existing conditions and gather project information.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Naval Architecture, Marine Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
• Five or more years of relevant experience with an engineering consulting firm, shipyard, vessel owner/operator, or classification society.
• Strong understanding of vessel stability, structures, marine systems, and modification design.
• Proficiency with AutoCAD and Excel; experience with GHS and finite element analysis software is a plus.
• Familiarity with marine regulations and classification requirements.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently, collaborate across disciplines, and manage competing project deadlines.
• Willingness to travel occasionally for vessel surveys, shipyard visits, and client meetings.

Preferred Experience

• Commercial vessel conversion, modification, or retrofit experience, including tugs, barges, ATBs, bulkers and/or tankers.
• Project management experience.
• Professional Engineer license or interest in pursuing licensure.
• Experience with environmental compliance projects, alternative fuels, or vessel modernization.