Naval Architect (Oil & Gas)

A Naval Architect in the Oil & Gas sector is responsible for the design, construction, and maintenance of marine vessels and structures used in the exploration, extraction, and transportation of oil and gas. This role requires specialized knowledge of both naval architecture and the oil and gas industry, focusing on the unique challenges associated with offshore operations.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Vessel and Offshore Structure Design:
   • Design and develop marine vessels, such as drilling rigs, FPSOs (Floating Production, Storage, and Offloading units), and support vessels, tailored for the oil and gas industry.
   • Perform detailed calculations for stability, hydrodynamics, structural integrity, and buoyancy to ensure safe and efficient vessel performance.
   • Select appropriate materials and technologies to withstand harsh offshore environments, including deep-sea and Arctic conditions.
2. Project Management:
   • Lead and oversee the design and construction phases of marine vessels and offshore structures, ensuring adherence to project timelines, budgets, and quality standards.
   • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including marine engineers, structural engineers, and project managers, to ensure the successful completion of projects.
   • Coordinate with shipyards, contractors, and classification societies to ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations.
3. Regulatory Compliance and Classification:
   • Ensure all designs comply with international and national maritime regulations, as well as industry-specific standards such as IMO (International Maritime Organization) and class societies (e.g., ABS, DNV, Lloyd’s Register).
   • Prepare and submit necessary documentation for vessel classification, certification, and regulatory approval.
   • Conduct regular inspections and audits to ensure ongoing compliance with safety, environmental, and operational standards.
4. Structural Analysis and Simulation:
   • Conduct structural analysis and finite element modeling (FEM) to evaluate the strength and durability of vessels and offshore structures under various loading conditions.
   • Perform simulations to predict vessel behavior in different sea states, including wave, wind, and current conditions.
   • Optimize designs for performance, safety, and cost-effectiveness, considering factors such as weight distribution, fuel efficiency, and operability.
5. Safety and Risk Management:
   • Develop and implement safety protocols to mitigate risks associated with offshore operations, including collision, capsizing, and environmental hazards.
   • Perform risk assessments and failure mode effect analysis (FMEA) to identify potential risks and develop contingency plans.
   • Ensure that all vessels and structures are equipped with appropriate safety features and are designed to facilitate emergency response.
6. Maintenance and Lifecycle Management:
   • Develop maintenance schedules and strategies to ensure the long-term reliability and safety of vessels and offshore structures.
   • Oversee refurbishment and upgrade projects to extend the operational life of existing assets.
   • Monitor and assess the condition of vessels and structures through inspections, surveys, and data analysis, making recommendations for repairs or modifications as needed.
7. Innovation and Technology Integration:
   • Stay updated with advancements in naval architecture, marine engineering, and offshore technology.
   • Integrate new technologies, such as automation, digital twins, and sustainable energy solutions, into vessel and structure designs.
   • Explore and implement design innovations to enhance operational efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and improve safety.
8. Technical Documentation and Reporting:
   • Prepare detailed technical documentation, including design specifications, construction drawings, and operation manuals.
   • Maintain accurate records of all engineering activities, decisions, and modifications throughout the project lifecycle.
   • Provide regular reports to stakeholders on project progress, safety performance, and operational efficiency.

Skills and Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Naval Architecture, Marine Engineering, or a related field; a Master’s degree is advantageous.
• Experience: 5+ years of experience in naval architecture within the oil and gas industry, including experience with offshore structures and vessels.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in naval architecture design software (e.g., AutoCAD, Rhino, ANSYS, ShipConstructor), structural analysis, hydrodynamics, and marine systems.
• Industry Knowledge: Strong understanding of offshore oil and gas operations, maritime regulations, and classification society standards.
• Soft Skills: Excellent problem-solving abilities, strong project management skills, effective communication, and the ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team.
• Certifications: Professional Engineer (PE) license or Chartered Engineer (CEng) status is preferred. Certification in marine or offshore safety is a plus.