Shipyard Design Manager

Role Overview

A Shipyard Design Manager directs the technical development of ship construction projects from concept to delivery, leading a team of engineers and drafters to ensure designs meet regulatory, budget, and performance requirements. They oversee CAD modeling, design drawings/documentations, and system integrations, while bridging communication between design, production, and the clients.

• Lead, manage, and review all functional & detailed structural, outfitting, and production drawings (e.g., General Arrangements, Midship sections) for new builds and/or repairs.
• Manage functional & detailed engineering efforts for new builds or repairs.
• Own and guide the overall technical solution for assigned projects.
• Identify and report technical risks to the Engineering Director.
• Manage training and development of personnel.
• Implement and manage QC & process instructions within the Design Engineering team.
• Ensure the ship designs & deliverables comply with Classification Society rules (e.g., ABS, DNV), national regulations, international regulations (SOLAS), client specifications, and Senesco production preferences.

• Coordinate with project managers and production teams to resolve design conflicts during construction.
• Track the deliverables list along with due dates.
• Manage project documentation, including design reviews, 3D models, design conflict resolution, work instructions, and technical specifications.

• Facilitate design reviews, client presentations, and progress updates.
• Send weekly updates on the engineering deliverables.
• Support marketing and business development efforts for new ship design programs, including concept design and technical proposal leadership.

• Educational Background:
  Bachelor’s degree in engineering (Naval Architecture, Marine Engineering, or related field).
• Experience:
  
  5–10+ years in ship design/shipyard engineering, with proven leadership experience. The Ship Design experience must include a working understanding of all aspects of Naval Architecture, Structures, Propulsion and Auxiliaries, Electrical, and Mission Systems.
• Technical Knowledge:
  Deep understanding of ship systems, including structural design, piping, HVAC, and marine electrical systems.
• Software Proficiency:
  Strong knowledge of AutoCAD and Ship Constructor. Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and electronic document management systems (EDMS).
• Soft Skills:
  
  Strong organizational abilities, attention to detail, communication skills, and the ability to manage multiple tasks under time constraints.

• Proven experience leading complex ship design projects or engineering organizations (5+ years).
• Expertise in design and engineering of U.S. naval, coast guard, or other government vessels.
• Correctable vision to 20/40 (contact lenses not permitted in certain production area positions).
• Pass the Ishihara test for color blindness and read & understand safety symbols and colors (red, yellow, green, etc.).li>
• Pass a pulmonary function exam for positions requiring respiratory protection.
• Ability to stand, sit, walk, squat, kneel, stoop, or climb stairs or a ladder.
• Non-claustrophobic and may be required to work in confined spaces.
• Capability to maneuver through openings as small as 18 inches by 23 inches; can move and crawl into awkward positions.
• Work in static positions for extended periods of time.
• Maintain personal protective equipment (PPE) such as respirator, hard hat, face shield, safety goggles, safety shoes (steel toe), safety harness, gloves, or other protective clothing as determined by a Senesco Marine Job Hazard Analysis.
• Report all accidents or injuries to supervisor and the Environmental Safety…