Lead Engineer Job Summary

The Lead Engineer is responsible for managing and directing all aspects of design and detail engineering to support the construction of high-speed aluminum vessels. This role provides cross-disciplinary engineering leadership and technical oversight, ensuring project deliverables align with quality standards, budgets, and timelines. The Lead Engineer collaborates with internal teams, subcontractors, and production personnel to support vessel design, development, and execution.

Lead Engineer Responsibilities

• Lead engineering and technical efforts across assigned programs/projects, coordinating with internal departments, external customers, and subcontracted design agents.

• Oversee all vessel systems including Naval Architecture, Structural, Mechanical, and Electrical disciplines.

• Conduct or review regulatory and class-level calculations; generate associated reports and documentation.

• Develop, manage, and maintain 3D models and design outputs using Ship Constructor and SolidWorks.

• Guide the development of engineering standards, procedures, and reusable design elements.

• Oversee production drawing releases and ensure timely distribution to Document Control.

• Collaborate with project teams to meet vessel build plans and schedules.

• Supervise and mentor a team of engineers, designers, and subcontractors (up to 10 personnel).

• Provide hands-on support to production teams and regularly monitor construction progress in the shipyard.

• Lead or participate in project engineering/design reviews, sea trials, and project estimation efforts.

• Utilize ERP systems to generate material requisitions and work packages.

• Prepare and review technical documents including RFIs, submittals, ECRs, and NCRs.

• Offer technical guidance as a subject matter expert and support continuous improvement initiatives.

• Assist with resource planning and performance feedback in collaboration with senior engineering leadership.

Lead Engineer Position Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Naval Architecture, Marine Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Electrical Engineering.

• Minimum 15 years of directly related experience in shipbuilding or boatbuilding; experience with high-speed aluminum vessels is strongly preferred.

• Familiarity with regulatory bodies and standards including ABS, USCG CFR, IACS, ABYC, IEEE, IMO/SOLAS, and military contracts.

• Experience with custom, prototype, or one-off vessel construction projects is advantageous.

• Proficient with AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Rhino, Ship Constructor, and Microsoft Office Suite.

• Strong working knowledge of vessel design spirals, system arrangements, and outfitting details.

• Understanding of ERP and PDM systems preferred.

• Ability to manage budgets, schedules, and cross-functional engineering teams.

• Excellent communication, documentation, and technical report-writing skills.

• High level of organization with the ability to manage multiple priorities under tight specifications.

• Demonstrated problem-solving ability and capacity to lead collaborative technical discussions.

• Capable of leading engineering teams and managing subcontractors to meet project goals.

• Experienced in setting project strategies, assigning tasks, and monitoring performance outcomes.

• U.S. Citizenship required due to government contract compliance.

• Must pass a pre-employment drug/alcohol test and background screening.
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