Senior Structural Engineer in Washington

Energy Jobline ZR; Washington; On-site; USD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Abbott on Call is seeking an experienced Senior Naval Architect to lead FEMAP/NASTRAN FEA and structural analysis for vessels from military to commercial ships. You will develop FE models, apply boundary conditions, and produce reports for classification or certification.

The role requires 10+ years in naval architecture, strong FEA experience, and U.S. citizenship with ability to obtain a DoD security clearance. Occasional field work may be required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s in Naval Architecture, Marine Engineering, Ocean Engineering, or ABET‑accredited field.
• 10+ years of naval architecture/marine structural analysis experience.
• U.S. Citizenship with ability to obtain DoD security clearance.

Responsibilities

• Lead Finite Element Analysis (FEA).
• Develop structural FE models in FEMAP.
• Apply boundary conditions and load cases.
• Evaluate stress and deformation results; document findings for classification or certification.

Skills

FEMAP/NASTRAN

CAD tools

MS Office

Education

ABET‑accredited Naval Architecture/Marine Engineering degree

Tools

FEMAP

NASTRAN

ANSYS

ABAQUS

LS-DYNA

Job description

Job DescriptionJob Description

Summary

Abbott on Call is seeking an experienced and innovative Senior Naval Architect with strong Finite Element Modeling (FEMAP/NASTRAN) capabilities and a solid foundation in ship design and structural analysis. This individual will lead or support design and analysis projects for vessels ranging from military craft to commercial ships. You will play a key role in developing structural models, performing FEA simulations, and producing technical deliverables in compliance with regulatory and classification standards.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's in Naval Architecture, Marine Engineering, Ocean Engineering, or related ABET-accredited field
• 10+ years of relevant naval architecture and marine structural analysis experience
• U.S. Citizenship required with the ability to obtain a DoD security clearance

Demonstrated experience in:

• Finite Element Modeling and Analysis using FEMAP and NASTRAN (Minimum 5 years)
• Structural design and analysis of marine systems
• Hull form, resistance and powering, hydrostatics, and stability

Working knowledge of:

• Damage stability, vibration, seakeeping, and survivability
• Classification and regulatory standards (ABS, MIL-SPEC, US Navy, ABYC)
• Structural and compartmental arrangements

Proficient with:

• 2D/3D CAD tools (AutoCAD, Rhino, SolidWorks)
• Microsoft Office suite (Excel, Word, Project, Access)

Key Responsibilities

• Lead Finite Element Analysis (FEA):
• Develop structural FE models in FEMAP
• Apply realistic boundary conditions and load cases
• Evaluate stress and deformation results and document findings in formal reports for classification or certification review

Naval Architecture Design & Analysis:

• Perform hull girder and local structural calculations per ABS, MIL-SPEC, or commercial standards
• Conduct intact and damaged stability assessments and develop hydrostatic curves
• Prepare and review lines plans, hull form geometry, and weight estimates
• Participate in inclining experiments and deadweight surveys

Concept through Detail Design:

• Develop principal characteristics, general arrangements, and structural layouts
• Participate in concept and feasibility studies for new or modified vessels
• Integrate inputs from marine engineering, structural, and systems disciplines

Project & Client Support:

• Assist in preparation of specifications, drawings, and technical reports
• Participate in design reviews and technical briefings with stakeholders
• Provide onsite support for ship checks, measurements, and structural assessments (must access remote areas of vessels and lift up to 30 lbs)

Qualifications

• Active DoD Secret or higher clearance
• Experience working with shipyards or DoD/military clients
• Familiarity with other FEA tools such as NASTRAN, ANSYS, ABAQUS, or LS-DYNA
• Understanding of shock and vibration design principles for naval vessels
• Familiarity with digital twin or model-based systems engineering (MBSE)

Notes

This position may require base access screening in addition to clearance eligibility

Occasional shipboard and remote field work required

Company Description

Naval Engineering Firm

Company DescriptionNaval Engineering Firm