NAVAL ARCHITECT 4/DRY DOCK
Location:
Newport News, Virginia, United States
Date: Jun 26, 2026
Req ID: 47389
Team: O41 PLANT ENGR
Entity: Newport News Shipbuilding
US Citizenship Required for this Position: Yes
Full-Time
Shift: 1st
Relocation: No relocation assistance available
Virtual/Telework Opportunity: No - Not eligible for telework
Travel Requirement: No
Clearance Required: No - Clearance Not Required to Start
Meet HII's Newport News Shipbuilding
With more than 25,000 employees - including third-, fourth- and even fifth-generation shipbuilders - HII's Newport News Shipbuilding (NNS) division is the largest industrial employer in Virginia. We're the sole designer, builder and refueler of U.S. Navy nuclear aircraft carriers and one of two providers of U.S. Navy nuclear submarines. Our diverse and innovative team of professionals ranges from skilled trades to project managers, engineers and software developers to solution architects, technical subject matter experts, and system users. We collaborate together at the forefront of technology, manufacturing, and integration of the most powerful and survivable naval ships in the world. Want to be part of the team? Apply today! We look forward to meeting you.
The Role
Performs routine naval architecture work requiring application of standard techniques, procedures, and criteria in carrying out a sequence of design and/or analyses of ship hull, foundation, superstructure, arrangements and hull form characteristics tasks. As directed, applies selected techniques and procedures to assignments involving ship design and ship performance analyses. Assists in the solution of difficult problems involved in areas of assignment. Uses prescribed methods to perform specific and limited portions of broader systems design, performance analyze, or hull form characteristic assignments of more experienced naval architects. The duties described herein cover major duties as required. However, this does not exclude the requirement of performing related duties under normal conditions, and other duties directed by supervision.
Primary job functions specific to this position include:
Serve as the O41 Plant Engineering Subject Matter Expert (SME) and technical lead for Facilities' Floating Dry Dock and Transfer Ways
Provide technical leadership and direction to internal and external customers on structural-related matters to ensure inspections, routine maintenance, and construction projects are performed in accordance with applicable codes and NNS-specific specifications/requirements
Perform design reviews of contractor project submittals to ensure adequacy for the application at the subject facility and alignment with applicable codes, regulations and best practices
Prepare and/or review impact studies and make recommendations supporting the development of the Facilities' Long Range Strategic Plan (LRSP) for critical structural systems and equipment
Serve as a mentor for younger engineers within the O41 Plant Engineering organization
Creates technical direction and supports trades and contractors on site during maintenance and repair of the facilities
Perform structural evaluations, conduct infrastructure assessments and respond to emergent safety related issues in a fast paced, large industrial facility setting
Direct work assignments of consultants and contractors to ensure shipyard facilities are maintained in a safe condition
Support key strategic business development and strategic initiatives as assigned and developed. Ability to complete assigned tasks on schedule and within budget
Must Have
Bachelor's Degree and 9 years of relevant exempt experience;
Master's Degree and 7 years of relevant professional experience;
Ph.D. and 4 years of experience.
Nice to Have
Licensed Professional Engineer (PE) in the structural disciplines
Experience in steel, concrete, and prestressed concrete
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Ability to build strong working relationships and rapport with NNS production, engineering, safety, maintenance, and contractor personnel
Shipyard/Nuclear facilities experience
Proficient in pertinent structural codes and design standards
Why HII
We build the world's most powerful, survivable naval ships and defense technology solutions that safeguard our seas, sky, land, space and cyber. HII's diverse workforce includes skilled tradespeople; artificial intelligence, machine learning (AI/ML) experts; engineers; technologists; scientists; logistics experts; and business administration professionals.
Recognized as one of America's top large company employers, we are a values and ethics driven organization that puts people's safety and well-being first. Regardless of your role or where you serve, at HII, you'll find a supportive and welcoming environment, competitive benefits, and valuable educational and training programs for continual career growth at every stage of your career.
Working at HII is more than a job - it's an opportunity to build a future. We offer comprehensive benefits including: medical, prescription drug, dental and vision plan choices, on-site health centers, tele-medicine, wellness resources, employee assistance programs, savings plan options (401K), financial education and planning tools, life insurance, tuition reimbursement, employee discounts, early childhood and post-secondary education scholarships, and more. Some benefits may vary depending on your specific division or work location.
Together we are working to ensure a future where everyone can be free and thrive.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, physical or mental disability, age, or veteran status or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law. U.S. Citizenship may be required for certain positions.
Do You Need Assistance?
If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to buildyourcareer@hii-co.com and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Reasonable accommodations are considered on a case-by-case basis. Please note that only those inquiries concerning a request for reasonable accommodation will be responded to from this e-mail address.
Additionally, you may also call 1-844-849-8463 for assistance. Press #2 for Newport News Shipbuilding.
