Senior Naval Architect

TMMG, LLC; Chesapeake (VA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Sign on bonus: $2500

Job summary

A shipbuilding execution integrator is seeking a Senior Naval Architect in Chesapeake, VA to support engineering design solutions for naval and commercial shipbuilding programs. The role demands strong competency in naval architecture, extensive 3D modeling, and technical leadership. Candidates should hold a Bachelor's in Naval Architecture/Marine Engineering and possess over 10 years of relevant experience. Responsibilities include drafting technical design packages and ensuring compliance with engineering standards. Travel is approximately 20% and U.S. Citizenship is required.

Qualifications

• U.S. Citizenship required; Active Secret Clearance preferred.
• Proven experience with NAVSEA, MSC, or major U.S. shipyards.
• Ability to travel approximately 20% of the time.

Responsibilities

• Lead structural and naval architectural analyses for ship systems.
• Develop and validate shock-qualified designs for shipboard systems.
• Conduct ship checks, inspections, and onboard validation.

Skills

Naval Architecture

3D Modeling

Technical Leadership

Compliance Engineering

Problem Solving

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Naval Architecture or Marine Engineering

10+ years in shipbuilding environments

Tools

SolidWorks

Rhino 3D

ShipConstructor

FEMAP/Nastran

Job description

Sign on bonus: $2500

Background check, US Citizenship, CAC, and a confidential clearance are required 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 supports both new construction and modernization programs, including NAVSEA, MSC, and commercial vessel platforms.

Key Responsibilities

• 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 (e.g., ABS), and contract requirements.
• 3D Modeling & Digital Engineering Integration
  • Develop and manipulate 3D ship models using tools such as Rhino, SolidWorks, ShipConstructor.
  • 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.
• Technical Design Package (TDP) Development & Review
  • Develop, review, and redline TDPs including drawings, calculations, reports, and installation details.
  • Validate engineering products for technical accuracy and shipboard applicability.
  • Support Engineering Change Documents (ECNs/ECPs) and configuration control.
• Shipyard & Waterfront Integration
  • Conduct ship checks, inspections, and onboard validation of systems and structures.
  • Work directly with production teams to:
    • Resolve installation issues.
    • Address non-compliance conditions.
    • Eliminate rework and delays.
  • Act as interface between engineering, production, and program stakeholders.
• 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.
• Program & Technical Leadership
  • Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers.
  • Support cross-functional coordination with shipyards, program offices, classification societies, and 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 lift up to 15 pounds at a time.
• Must access and inspect all areas of machinery.

Education & Certification Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Naval Architecture or Marine Engineering from an accredited naval architecture program.
• 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 20% of the time.
• U.S. Citizenship required; Active Secret Clearance preferred.

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

Preferred Experience

• Experience supporting programs such as LCS (Littoral Combat Ship), Aircraft Carrier (CVN) RCOH or new construction, MSC auxiliary vessels.
• Experience with DDAM shock analysis and NAVSEA 3010 compliance.
• Experience with FEMAP/Nastran or equivalent FEA tools.
• Experience with Rhino 3D, SolidWorks, AutoCAD, ShipConstructor.
• Background in ship modernization / overhaul programs, mechanical, hydraulic, or auxiliary systems integration, structural surveys and condition assessments.

Key Competencies

• Strong understanding of shipbuilding execution and sequencing.
• Ability to translate engineering into buildable solutions.
• Attention to detail with practical problem-solving mindset.
• Ability to operate independently in fast-paced shipyard environments.
• Strong communication skills and ability 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.

About 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.