Naval architects draw and plan details and parts of floating structures and nautical vessels. Unlike other architects whose jobs are land-based, naval architects do their work on both land and sea. Because they work closely with maritime engineers and mechanical engineers, their job is associated more with engineering than architecture. Typically, naval architect jobs are found in the transportation, shipping, oil, and engineering industries. The scope of their work ranges from making vessels as simple as boats and ferries, to designing complex vessels, such as submarines, cruise ships, and oil tankers. In addition to this, a number of naval architects are tapped by the government and the military to work on special nautical projects.
Survey results show that naval architects earn an average income of Au$74,000 every year. The highest possible salary rate for naval architect jobs is Au$109,000. Like most highly technical careers, the pay is normally commensurate with the professional qualifications, abilities, years of experience, and nature of the project.
Job description
Naval architect jobs may focus on specific areas of responsibility, such as costing, designing, and conducting feasibility studies and cost-benefit analysis. However, some general functions include the following:
- Drafting initial plans resulting from communications with customers and technical support providers
- Assessing the risks and advantages of building a vessel
- Establishing the maximum capacity of the vessel in compliance with project budget and requirements, along with safety regulations
- Gauging the performance of nautical crafts and systems
- Ensuring that design specifications are consistently followed
- Overseeing construction and repair
- Doing research and providing advice to technical staff
Qualifications
The minimum requirement for this occupation is a bachelor degree in relevant fields of study, such as marine engineering, mechanical engineering, or mechtronic engineering. It is to your advantage if you possess experience in similar jobs, such as marine surveyor or mechtronic engineer. Appropriate license and certification may be needed.
