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Senior Naval Architect

The McHenry Management Group, IncChesapeake, VA🇺🇸United StatesPosted 16 Aug 2026

Why This Role Stands Out

This Senior Naval Architect role offers a dynamic blend of hands-on problem-solving and strategic design for impactful naval and commercial shipbuilding programs, with a competitive salary and sign-on bonus. You'll thrive here if you're adept at translating engineering concepts to the shipyard floor and possess strong analytical and 3D modeling skills. Apply now to contribute to critical shipbuilding efforts and advance your career in a hybrid environment.

Quick Overview

Salary
$120k - $145k/yr
Work Type
Hybrid
Level
Mid Senior

Job Description

Job Type

Full-time

Description

$120,000 - $145,000 per year
Sign on bonus: $7500

Background check, ship, CAC, and a confidential clearance are requirements for this position. Travel is 20%.

TMMG is seeking a Senior Naval Architect to support the Engineering Design Team (EDT) in delivering high-quality, execution-focused engineering solutions across commercial and naval shipbuilding programs. This role is not purely theoretical design. The right candidate understands how engineering translates to the deckplates - bridging design, production, testing, and delivery. You will be expected to step into active shipyard environments, resolve real-world engineering challenges, and ensure design products are executable, compliant, and aligned with ship construction and modernization efforts. This position supports both new construction and modernization programs, including NAVSEA, MSC, and commercial vessel platforms.

Requirements

Key Responsibilities1. Naval Architecture & Structural Engineering Execution

Perform and lead structural and naval architectural analyses for ship systems, foundations, and modifications

Conduct DDAM shock analysis, static and dynamic Finite Element Analysis (FEA), and load path evaluations

Develop and validate shock-qualified designs for shipboard equipment and systems

Ensure compliance with NAVSEA design practices, classification society rules (ABS), and contract requirements

2. 3D Modeling & Digital Engineering Integration

Develop and manipulate 3D ship models using tools such as Rhino, SolidWorks, ShipConstructor, or equivalent

Translate legacy drawings and incomplete data into accurate, buildable 3D models

Support design-to-production alignment, ensuring models reflect real installation conditions

Identify clashes, interferences, and constructability issues early

3. Technical Design Package (TDP) Development & Review

Develop, review, and redline Technical Design Packages (TDPs) including:

o Drawings

o Calculations

o Reports

o Installation details

Validate engineering products for technical accuracy and shipboard applicability

Support Engineering Change Documents (ECNs/ECPs) and configuration control

4. Shipyard & Waterfront Integration

Conduct ship checks, inspections, and onboard validation of systems and structures

Work directly with production teams to:

o Resolve installation issues

o Address non-compliance conditions

o Eliminate rework and delays

Act as the interface between engineering, production, and program stakeholders

5. Shock, Survivability & Compliance Engineering

Lead or support DDAM shock analysis for mission-critical systems

Evaluate shock mitigation strategies, isolation systems, and structural reinforcement

Ensure designs meet shock, vibration, and survivability requirements

Support resolution of shock trial deficiencies and non-compliance issues

6. Program & Technical Leadership

Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers

Support cross-functional coordination with:

o Shipyards

o Program offices

o Classification societies

o Government stakeholders

Participate in technical reviews, design reviews, and risk assessments

Physical Job Requirements

Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.

Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at a time.

Must be able to access and inspect all areas of machinery.

Education/Certification Requirements

Bachelor's Degree in Naval Architecture or Marine Engineering from a recognized and accredited naval architecture program

(Mechanical Engineering degrees will not be considered for this role)

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 vessel design execution

Ability to travel approximately % of the time

U.S. Citizenship required; Active Secret Clearance preferred

Preferred Experience

Experience supporting programs such as:

o LCS (Littoral Combat Ship)

o Aircraft Carrier (CVN) RCOH or new construction

o MSC auxiliary vessels

Experience with:

o DDAM shock analysis and NAVSEA 3010 compliance

o FEMAP / Nastran or equivalent FEA tools

o Rhino 3D, SolidWorks, AutoCAD, ShipConstructor

Background in:

o Ship modernization / overhaul programs

o Mechanical, hydraulic, or auxiliary systems integration

o Structural surveys and condition assessments

Key Competencies

Strong understanding of shipbuilding execution and sequencing

Ability to translate engineering into buildable solutions

High attention to detail with practical problem-solving mindset

Ability to operate independently in fast-paced shipyard environments

Strong communication skills and able to work across engineering, production, and leadership teams

What Success Looks Like in This Role

Engineering products are accurate, executable, and aligned with shipyard reality

Reduced rework and field issues due to strong upfront engineering validation

Rapid resolution of technical issues impacting production and testing

Effective integration of design, construction, and test requirements

Contribution to on-time vessel delivery and mission readiness

Why TMMG

TMMG is not a staffing firm - we are a shipbuilding execution integrator. Our engineers embed directly with shipyards and programs to solve problems early, reduce risk, and deliver results.

Salary Description

$120,000 - $145,000 per year

Skills

AutoCAD
Compliance
FEA
SolidWorks

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