Naval Architect & Marine Systems Engineer

Position Summary

Blue Ops is seeking a highly motivated Naval Architect & Marine Systems Engineer to support the design, engineering, testing, and production of advanced autonomous surface vessels (ASVs) and unmanned surface vehicles (USVs). This position bridges naval architecture, mechanical engineering, marine systems integration, and manufacturing operations to ensure our vessels are optimized for performance, reliability, scalability, and production efficiency.

The ideal candidate combines strong naval architecture fundamentals with practical production experience and a hands-on approach to problem solving. This role works closely with manufacturing, autonomy, electrical, propulsion, and production teams to develop next-generation autonomous maritime platforms for defense, government, and commercial applications.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Naval Architecture & Vessel Design

• Perform hull form evaluations, hydrostatic calculations, stability analyses, weight studies, and performance assessments.
• Support vessel design from concept through production.
• Develop and maintain vessel arrangements, structural layouts, and marine system designs.
• Conduct powering, resistance, and seakeeping analyses.
• Assist with vessel certification and compliance requirements.

Marine Systems Engineering

• Design and integrate propulsion, steering, fuel, cooling, electrical, and auxiliary systems.
• Develop system schematics, installation drawings, and engineering documentation.
• Support autonomous vessel integration requirements.
• Evaluate emerging marine technologies and recommend design improvements.

Manufacturing & Production Support

• Collaborate closely with production teams to improve manufacturability and assembly efficiency.
• Translate production feedback into engineering improvements.
• Develop production drawings, installation procedures, and build documentation.
• Support prototype construction, testing, and production ramp-up activities.
• Participate in design reviews and root-cause investigations.

Testing & Validation

• Support vessel sea trials and engineering validation testing.
• Analyze vessel performance data and recommend design modifications.
• Participate in troubleshooting mechanical, structural, and systems-related issues.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives across engineering and manufacturing operations.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work directly with manufacturing, procurement, autonomy, software, electrical, and operations teams.
• Support supplier selection and component qualification efforts.
• Assist program managers in maintaining schedules, budgets, and technical milestones.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Naval Architecture, Marine Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related discipline.
• Strong understanding of:
  • Naval architecture principles
  • Marine systems design
  • Vessel stability and hydrostatics
  • Structural and mechanical engineering fundamentals
• Experience with 3D CAD modeling and engineering documentation.
• Strong communication skills and ability to work across engineering and production teams.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced development and manufacturing environment.

Additional Desired Qualifications

• Experience designing production boats, military vessels, workboats, or yachts.
• Familiarity with autonomous or remotely operated marine systems.
• Experience with:
  • Rhino
  • AutoCAD
  • Solid Works
  • Areana
• Knowledge of ABYC, USCG, and classification society standards.
• Hands-on experience in marine manufacturing environments.
• Preferred Certifications
  • ABYC Certifications
  • USCG Engineering License
  • Marine Systems Engineering background
  • Naval Architecture coursework or degree concentration

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

• Must be able to walk, stand, and navigate large indoor and outdoor facilities for extended periods of time.
• Ability to lift, carry, and move materials and equipment weighing up to 25 lbs on a regular basis.
• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) may be required in designated areas or when performing specific tasks, in accordance with safety protocols and company policy.
• May be required to climb ladders, stoop, kneel, or crouch during inspections, maintenance walk-throughs, or emergency response situations.
• Regular exposure to facility operations including noise, dust, temperature fluctuations, and industrial equipment.
• Occasional off-hours or weekend work required for emergency facility responses or projects as needed
• Requires frequent use of a computer and other standard office equipment for documentation, communication, and coordination tasks.

Background Check

This position will require successfully completing a post-offer background check. Qualified candidates with a criminal history will be considered and are not automatically disqualified, consistent with federal and state law.

EEO and ITAR/EAR Work Authorization Disclosure

Red Cat Holdings provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This position requires direct or indirect access to hardware, software, technology or technical data controlled under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Successful candidates for positions subject to ITAR/EAR restrictions must provide proof of U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Residence and must not require sponsorship for export-restricted work authorization.

E-Verify

The company participates E-Verify ensure eligibility for employment and compliance with Right to Work rules.

Compensation: Base pay, plus generous annual equity package and potential bonuses.