Naval Architect (Ocean Going Ships)

Job Description

Naval Architect – Ocean-Going Ships

Location: Portsmouth, Hampshire

Reports To: Head of Engineering

Job Overview: SYR are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Naval Architect focusing on Ocean Going Ships to join our client. They are at the forefront of engineering and decarbonization in the maritime industry! Specializing in the design and development of ocean-going ships, as the Lead Naval Architect, you will be responsible for overseeing and managing the design, analysis, and performance optimization of large vessels, ensuring they meet all regulatory requirements, safety standards, and client specifications. This is a senior level position that requires a deep understanding of naval architecture principles, ship design, and construction processes, with the ability to lead multidisciplinary teams.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Lead the design and development of ocean-going ships, including conceptual, preliminary, and detailed design phases.
2. Oversee the naval architecture and structural design processes for new builds, conversions, or modifications of vessels.
3. Ensure compliance with international maritime regulations, including SOLAS, MARPOL, and IMO standards, as well as industry best practices.
4. Conduct performance analysis, stability assessments, and sea-keeping studies using advanced simulation tools and software.
5. Supervise and mentor junior naval architects and engineers, providing technical leadership and guidance throughout the design process.
6. Collaborate with cross-functional teams including marine engineers, electrical engineers, project managers, and production teams to ensure timely and cost-effective delivery of projects.
7. Manage client communications, presenting design proposals, progress reports, and technical documentation.
8. Oversee the preparation of ship construction drawings, specifications, and technical reports.
9. Lead efforts in innovation and technology integration, optimizing ship designs for fuel efficiency, environmental sustainability, and operational performance.
10. Provide support during the construction phase, ensuring the design is correctly implemented and that quality standards are met.
11. Identify and mitigate risks in the design, production, and operational phases of vessel life cycles.

Qualifications:

1. Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Naval Architecture, Marine Engineering, or a related field.
2. Minimum of 10 years of experience in the design and construction of ocean-going vessels, with at least 3-5 years in a leadership role.
3. Strong knowledge of shipbuilding standards, materials, and technologies.
4. Proficiency in naval architecture software tools (e.g., ShipConstructor, Rhino, Maxsurf, ANSYS).
5. In-depth understanding of hydrodynamics, structural mechanics, and ship stability.
6. Experience with regulatory compliance and international maritime standards.
7. Proven leadership and project management skills, with experience in managing cross-functional teams and client relations.
8. Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to translate complex technical information for non-technical stakeholders.
9. Strong problem-solving and analytical skills, with a focus on innovative and practical design solutions.
10. Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

1. Professional certifications (e.g., Chartered Engineer or equivalent).
2. Experience with sustainable design and green ship technologies.
3. Experience with vessel retrofit and conversion projects.

Why Join:

1. Competitive salary.
2. Opportunity to work on high-profile, innovative projects in the marine industry.
3. Collaborative and dynamic work environment with a team of experts in the field.
4. Commitment to professional development and career growth.