Overview
Naval architects design, construct, refit and repair marine vessels and offshore structures.
Activities
In your day-to-day duties you could:
- coordinate the work of engineering design teams
- make sure that designs are safe, seaworthy and cost-effective
- prepare design plans using computer software
- check and test specifications using computer simulations and 3D models
- make sure that designs meet operational requirements
- coordinate manufacturing or repair work
Organisations
Shipbuilding companies
Workplace
You may need to wear protective clothing. You could work in an office, at a shipyard, on a rig, on a ship or in a laboratory. Your working environment may be at height and outdoors some of the time.
Working Hours
39 to 41 hours a week – including occasional evening and weekend work.
Salary
£25,000 to £65,000 a year.
Qualifications
Most naval architects have a degree or postgraduate qualification that is recognised by the Royal Institution of Naval Architects. This would usually be an engineering subject like:
- naval architecture
- ocean, offshore or marine engineering
- ship science