Design Engineer

Freeman Boatworks; Moncks Corner (SC); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Medical, dental, vision benefits

401(k) with company match

Paid time off and holidays

Collaborative workplace culture

Job summary

A marine design company based in South Carolina is seeking a Design Engineer to support the development of high-performance composite catamarans. The candidate will design, engineer, and refine boat structures, ensuring that designs translate to effective production. Responsibilities include creating 3D models, evaluating structural performance, and collaborating with manufacturing teams. Ideal applicants have a strong background in naval architecture or yacht design and experience with CAD tools. Competitive compensation and benefits are provided.

Qualifications

• Experience in Naval Architecture, Yacht Design, or related marine discipline.
• Demonstrated experience in Design Engineering within the marine industry.
• Proven experience taking boat designs from concept through production.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to conceptual design of composite boat parts.
• Create detailed 3D models and 2D drawings using CAD software.
• Evaluate structural performance under operational loading conditions.
• Select appropriate composite materials based on performance and cost.
• Support prototype builds and ongoing production.
• Work with cross-functional teams for design integration.

Skills

Naval Architecture

Yacht Design

Composite boat construction

CAD software proficiency (SolidWorks, Rhino 3D)

Problem-solving

Attention to detail

Fast-paced production environment

Tools

Rhino 3D

Rhino Cam

SolidWorks

Job description

Description

Freeman Boatworks is seeking a Design Engineer withdirect marine vessel design experienceto support the development of our high-performance composite catamarans. This role is responsible for designing, engineering, and refining boat structures and components that move efficiently from concept into production.

The ideal candidate has a background in marine design and engineering, or hands‑on boat design, and understands how designs translate to real‑world boat building in a production environment. This is a highly collaborative, hands‑on role where engineering decisions directly impact build quality, performance, and manufacturability.

What You’ll Do

Conceptual Design

• Contribute to the conceptual design of a boats composite large parts, small parts and structural components for production boats
• Develop and refine layouts and structural concepts that consider performance, strength, weight, and manufacturability

Engineering Development

• Create detailed 3D models, assemblies, and 2D / 3D layout drawings using CAD software (Rhino 3D)
• Maintain accurate and production‑ready engineering documentation
• Create and document revisions of core & fiberglass kits, including CNC programming using CAM software (Rhino Cam) and updating build schematics
• Creation of 3D printed parts to be used in production as jigs, fixtures or finished parts
• Mold design – work closely with our in‑house tooling department & outside composite tooling companies

Structural Analysis & Optimization

• Evaluate structural performance under operational loading conditions
• Identify and implement design improvements to enhance durability, stiffness, and overall boat performance

Materials & Construction

• Select appropriate composite materials, cores, and laminates based on performance, durability, and cost considerations
• Design with a strong understanding of composite boat‑building methods and production constraints

Prototyping & Production Support

• Support prototype builds, first articles, and ongoing production
• Collaborate closely with manufacturing teams to resolve design and build challenges

Cross‑Functional Collaboration

• Work with manufacturing, procurement, quality, and leadership to ensure smooth integration of design into production
• Incorporate feedback from the shop floor into continuous design improvements

What We’re Looking For

• Experience in Naval Architecture, Yacht Design, or a closely related marine‑focused discipline
• Demonstrated experience in Design Engineering within the marine industry
• Strong understanding of composite boat construction
• Proficiency in CAD / CAM software such as SolidWorks, Rhino 3D, Rhino Cam or similar platforms
• Proven experience taking boat designs from concept through production
• Strong problem‑solving skills with a high level of attention to detail
• Ability to work effectively in a hands‑on, fast‑paced production environment

What We Offer

• Competitive compensation
• Comprehensive benefits: medical, dental, vision, company‑paid life & disability + more!
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off and holidays
• A collaborative, people‑focused workplace built on craftsmanship and innovation

Please note:Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check and drug screening.