Naval Architect

Ghostworks Marine, Inc.; Holland (MI); On-site; USD 95,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

Ghostworks Marine, Inc. is seeking a Naval Architect to lead design, analysis, and oversight of marine vessels, focusing on structural integrity and performance.

You will engage in high‑level technical discussions with clients, regulators, and suppliers. Responsibilities include structural design and analysis using FEA tools, hydrostatics, stability, weight estimation, and development of general arrangements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or master's degree in Naval Architecture, Ocean Engineering, or a closely related ABET‑accredited field.
• 5–7 years of progressive naval architecture experience with a focus on structural design and analysis.
• Ability to engage in high-level technical discussions and explain complex topics clearly.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD software and naval architecture software, plus strong FEA experience.
• Knowledge of marine classification society rules and international maritime regulations.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, analysis, and oversight of marine vessels and structures with emphasis on structural integrity.
• Perform structural analysis using first principles and FEA tools; develop optimized designs.
• Prepare drawings, specifications, and calculations for approval and construction.
• Conduct hydrostatics, stability analyses, and weight estimations; assist construction and commissioning.
• Collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams and participate in design reviews and risk assessments.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Independent work

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Naval Architecture / Ocean Engineering

Tools

Rhino

SolidWorks

AutoCAD

Maxsurf

GHS

ShipConstructor

ANSYS

NASTRAN

LS-DYNA

Job description

Position Summary:

Naval Architect’s will be responsible for the design, analysis, and oversight of various marine vessels and structures, with a particular emphasis on their structural integrity and performance. This role requires a strong technical background, excellent problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to engage in detailed, high-level technical conversations regarding structural aspects with internal teams, clients, regulatory bodies, and suppliers.

Key Responsibilities:

Structural Design & Analysis:

• Perform comprehensive structural analysis of marine vessels and components using first principles, FEA software (e.g., ANSYS, NASTRAN, STAAD. Pro), and other computational tools.
• Develop and optimize structural designs for various vessel types, considering factors such as weight, strength, stability, vibration, and fatigue.
• Prepare detailed structural drawings, specifications, and calculations for classification society approval and construction.
• Conduct scantling calculations and material selections in accordance with applicable marine standards (e.g., ABS, DNV, Lloyd's Register).

Technical Consultation & Communication:

• Lead and facilitate in-depth technical conversations regarding the structural aspects of marine vessels with clients, project managers, production teams, regulatory bodies, and vendors.
• Clearly articulate complex structural concepts, design rationale, and potential trade-offs to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Review and interpret third-party structural designs and calculations, providing expert feedback and recommendations.
• Participate in design reviews, risk assessments, and problem-solving sessions related to structural challenges.

Naval Architecture Principles:

• Conduct hydrostatics, intact and damaged stability analyses, and perform resistance and propulsion calculations.
• Develop general arrangements, outfitting plans, and perform weight estimations and control.
• Assist in the development of construction specifications and support the construction and commissioning phases.

Project Management & Collaboration:

• Work closely with multi-disciplinary teams including marine engineers, mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, and production staff.
• Contribute to project planning, scheduling, and budget management for assigned design tasks.
• Ensure all designs comply with relevant international and national maritime regulations and standards.
• Stay abreast of new technologies, materials, and methodologies in naval architecture and marine engineering.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's or master’s degree in Naval Architecture, Ocean Engineering, or a closely related field from an ABET-accredited institution.
• 5-7 years of progressive experience in naval architecture, with a significant focus on structural design and analysis in the marine industry.
• Proven ability to engage in high-level technical discussions and provide clear, concise explanations on complex structural engineering topics to diverse audiences.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD software (e.g., Rhino, SolidWorks, AutoCAD) and specialized naval architecture software (e.g., Maxsurf, GHS, ShipConstructor).
• Strong experience with Finite Element Analysis (FEA) software (e.g., ANSYS, NASTRAN, LS-DYNA).
• In-depth knowledge of marine classification society rules (e.g., ABS, DNV, LR) and international maritime regulations (e.g., SOLAS, MARPOL).
• Solid understanding of marine construction techniques, materials (steel, aluminum, composites), and fabrication processes.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Professional Engineer (PE) license or ability to obtain one.
• Experience with advanced composite materials and structures.
• Project management experience.
• Experience with specific vessel types relevant to the company's focus (e.g., commercial fishing vessels, patrol boats, Great Lakes freighters, tugboats).