Overview

What’s involved

A naval architect designs all types of passenger or cargo boats, ships, vessels, or floating structures that meet strict Australian Maritime standards for construction, stability, performance, and safety. They create plans and provide specifications for ship builders to follow including the selection of vessel materials, generators, engines, and gearboxes suited to the vessels size, weight, and speed.

How do they spend their day?

A naval architect works from an office and out in the field completing tasks such as:

  • Creating or reviewing vessel design proposals
  • Meeting with clients
  • Meeting with ship builders
  • Using design software to create technical drawings
  • Overseeing vessel design, construction, and maintenance
  • Conducting vessel sea trials to monitor performance

Occupation Insights

Average salary
$90,000 - $120,000 per year
Skills you will use
Test vessels
Equipment design
Stakeholder communication
Using computers and technology
Technical drawing

Bachelor of Maritime Engineering (Naval Architect) or a Master of Maritime Engineering (Naval Engineering)

A degree in naval architecture, marine engineering, or a related field is often required. Experience in designing and engineering marine structures and vessels is important.

Maritime safety, vessel engineering and design, computing and technical design software, marine engineering, national standards, codes and specifications for watercraft and commercial vessels.

Creative, attention to detail, communication skills, problem solver