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Naval Architect

Naval architects design and oversee the construction, survey and repair of marine craft and floating structures, including naval craft, passenger and cargo ships, submarines, high-speed ferries and catamarans, tugs, boats, yachts and oil rigs.

Naval architects may specialise in structure and design, management, cost calculations, manufacturing processes, research, mechanical practices, hydrodynamics and hydrostatics, stability, propulsion or systems engineering.

They work in a variety of settings from drawing offices to shipyards and on board for sea trials.

TASKS

Naval architects may perform the following tasks:

prepare preliminary designs by consulting with clients such as ship owners, ship builders, shipping organisations and maritime research institutes
estimate the initial vessel construction costs and lifetime running costs of a vessel
determine the most suitable type and size for a vessel and ensure proposed designs meet performance and cost requirements
determine the proportions and shape of the hull (body) of the vessel
design accommodation and cargo areas
make calculations relating to the structural and mechanical aspects of design, construction and repair
make calculations relating to the stability of the vessel and prepare the stability book to go on board the vessel to be used by the master and officers
supervise other people who prepare detailed designs, specifications and building contracts
coordinate the work of other engineers
obtain plan approval and supervise construction work
plan, supervise and evaluate dockside and sea trials of the vessel
survey vessels
organise repairs and modifications to vessels
research efficient ways for vessels to move through water
provide risk assessment and claims management for insurance

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS

enjoy technical and engineering activities
aptitude for mathematics and physics
good oral and written communication skills
aptitude for computing and technical design
practical and creative ability
able to work independently or as part of a team
able to accept responsibility
interested in the marine environment

Interest Area

EDUCATION & TRAINING

To become a naval architect you usually have to complete a degree in engineering with a major in naval architecture. To get into these courses you usually need to gain your HSC/ACT Year 12. Prerequisite subjects, or assumed knowledge, in one or more of mathematics, physics and chemistry are normally required. A number of universities in Australia offer degrees in engineering with a major in naval architecture.

Universities have different prerequisites and some have flexible entry requirements. Contact the universities you are interested in for more information as requirements may change.

Additional Information

Students and graduates can apply for membership of Engineers Australia, and the Royal Institution of Naval Architects (RINA). RINA offers student membership, as well as information and guidance on how to become a chartered professional naval architect. Visit their websites for further information.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Naval architects can be employed in naval architecture consultancies, shipyards, international ship classification societies, boat and shipbuilding firms, boat and ship repair and maintenance companies, port and harbour authorities, shipping lines and offshore engineering oil and gas companies.

Opportunities may also exist with mining companies engaged in offshore exploration and manufacturers of marine auxiliary machinery, navigational aids and communications equipment.