Senior Structural Engineer
Location: Washington DC
Clearance: Must be a U.S. Citizen and eligible to obtain a U.S. Government security clearance
Travel: Up to 25%
Summary
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 preferred)
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)
Preferred 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