DEPUTY SHIP DESIGN MANAGER, CARRIERS (ENGINEER 4)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: DEPUTY SHIP DESIGN MANAGER, CARRIERS (ENGINEER 4)

Company: Huntington Ingalls Industries (HII)

Location: Newport News, Virginia, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Engineering Management / Ship Design Operations

Date Posted: 2026-07-18

Experience Level: 7-9+ Years (Mid-Senior Level)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Oversee the planning, execution, and adherence to schedules for critical engineering products within new construction aircraft carrier programs, ensuring timely delivery of product model files, drawings, and support documentation.

• Manage and coordinate the processing of deviations from specifications, contract data deliverables, and evaluations of proposed changes to maintain project integrity and compliance.

• Lead cross-departmental problem resolution for engineering-related issues, acting as a key liaison to facilitate communication and drive solutions across various teams.

• Serve as a primary engineering representative, actively participating in key meetings and reviews, including Plan of the Week, technical issue discussions, and project kickoffs, to ensure engineering alignment.

• Interface directly with government customers across all project phases, from initial tasking to managing contract modifications and change orders, fostering strong client relationships.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is deeply embedded in complex, long-term government contracting, requiring a robust understanding of project management within a large-scale manufacturing and engineering environment. The "Engineer 4" designation, coupled with the salary range and experience requirements, indicates a significant level of responsibility and technical leadership. The focus on aircraft carriers (specifically Ford-class) points to a highly specialized domain within naval engineering.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain detailed schedules for the creation and delivery of engineering products, including product model files, drawings, diagrams, inspection reports, and other essential support documentation.

• Coordinate the rigorous tracking and processing of Deviations from Specification (DFS), contract data deliverables, and detailed evaluations of proposed changes to ensure contractual alignment and mitigate risk.

• Proactively identify, analyze, and oversee the resolution of engineering issues and concerns within the contract scope, fostering effective cross-departmental communication and collaborative problem-solving.

• Represent the Engineering, Construction, and Test (EC&T) Division in critical meetings such as Plan of the Week, construction/planning agendas, technical issues meetings, recurring project and quality reviews, Operations Control Center (OCC) reviews, and new work kickoffs.

• Serve as a dedicated engineering point of contact for government customers, managing interactions and communications throughout all project lifecycle stages, including initial tasking and change management.

• Review, coordinate, and oversee the implementation of all contract changes, encompassing Field Modification Requests (FMR), Headquarters Modification Requests (HMR), Government Furnished Information (GFI) updates, deliverables, key events, Schedule A & C, change orders, cost improvement initiatives, obsolescence management, and trade requests.

• Lead the development and implementation of new engineering processes under the contract, and review existing processes for necessary updates, driving continuous improvement in engineering products and methodologies.

• Report on engineering progress against the contract to program office and senior company leadership, monitoring departmental staffing levels, budget performance, and Earned Value Management System (EVMS) metrics, and supporting broader program initiatives.

• Conduct thorough reviews of technical specifications (Contract, letters, ship specifications) to ensure NNS processes and procedures align with and meet all contract technical requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a blend of technical oversight, project management, stakeholder engagement, and process improvement within a highly regulated government contracting environment. The explicit mention of "Ford-class Ship Specifications," "FMR/HMR changes," and "government customers" underscores the specialized nature of this role within naval shipbuilding.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's Degree in Engineering from an ABET-accredited program is mandatory.

• Master's Degree or Ph.D. in a relevant engineering discipline is preferred and may reduce experience requirements. Experience:

• Minimum of 9 years of relevant exempt professional experience with a Bachelor's degree.

• Minimum of 7 years of relevant professional experience with a Master's degree.

• Minimum of 4 years of relevant professional experience with a Ph.D. Required Skills:

• Deep familiarity with NNS New Construction processes, specifically for Ford-class aircraft carriers.

• Comprehensive understanding of U.S. Navy ship construction, repair, and modernization specifications and processes.

• Demonstrated knowledge and experience with key engineering products, including drawings, scopes of work, inspection reports, material procurement processes, departures from specification (DFS), work deferral requests, contract data requirements, and technical variance documents.

• Proven ability to interact professionally with a diverse range of stakeholders, including government customers, program offices, and internal departments, to achieve mutually beneficial outcomes.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to address complex engineering challenges within a project management framework.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively convey technical information to both technical and non-technical audiences. Preferred Skills:

• Demonstrated project management skills, with a preference for candidates holding a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification.

• Experience in waterfront engineering operations and direct interface with shipyard production teams.

• Prior experience interfacing with key government entities such as the Supervisor of Shipbuilding (SOS), NAVSEA05, and Program Executive Office for Carriers (PEO-C).

• Proven experience processing and implementing government change products like Field Modification Requests (FMRs) and Headquarters Modification Requests (HMRs).

• Prior experience in scheduling and managing the output of drawing products and other engineering deliverables.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required experience levels (7-9 years) combined with an engineering degree from an ABET-accredited program signify a mid-to-senior level engineering management role. The preferred skills highlight a desire for candidates with proven project management capabilities and specific experience within the naval defense sector, particularly with the US Navy's carrier programs.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase examples of successfully managed engineering project timelines, demonstrating adherence to schedules and on-time delivery of complex technical documentation (e.g., drawings, product models).

• Include case studies illustrating the process of managing deviations from specification (DFS) and contract data deliverables, highlighting problem-solving and compliance strategies.

• Present documentation or descriptions of process improvement initiatives undertaken within an engineering or manufacturing context, emphasizing efficiency gains and enhanced product quality.

• Provide evidence of experience in managing engineering budgets and staffing requirements, ideally with examples of resource allocation and performance monitoring (e.g., EVMS reporting). Process Documentation:

• Demonstrate experience in developing and implementing new engineering processes, with clear articulation of the methodology used for design, testing, and rollout.

• Detail your approach to reviewing and updating existing engineering workflows to drive continuous improvement, including methods for identifying bottlenecks and areas for optimization.

• Showcase your understanding of change management processes within large organizations, specifically concerning technical changes, contract modifications, and the implementation of government-directed changes (FMR/HMR).

• Illustrate your ability to interface with and manage government customer expectations and requirements related to engineering processes and deliverables.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an operations-focused role like this, a portfolio is crucial. It should not just list responsibilities but demonstrate impact through quantifiable results. The emphasis should be on process management, efficiency improvements, and successful navigation of complex contractual and stakeholder environments relevant to large-scale engineering projects.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $124,000.00 to $153,000.00 annually.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Medical, Prescription Drug, Dental, and Vision Plan choices.

• On-site health centers and Tele-medicine services for convenient healthcare access.

• Robust Wellness resources and Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) to support overall well-being.

• 401K Savings Plan with financial education and planning tools to support long-term financial security.

• Life Insurance coverage.

• Tuition Reimbursement programs to encourage continuous learning and skill development.

• Employee Discounts and access to early childhood and post-secondary education scholarships.

Working Hours: This is a full-time position with a standard 1st shift schedule, typically involving 40 hours per week. Overtime may be required based on project needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided ($124,000 - $153,000) is competitive for an Engineer 4 level position in the Newport News, Virginia area, reflecting the specialized skills and experience required for managing complex naval engineering projects. The extensive benefits package highlights HII's commitment to employee well-being and professional development, which is attractive to experienced operations and engineering professionals.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Shipbuilding, Defense Manufacturing, Government Contracting. HII's Newport News Shipbuilding (NNS) division is a critical component of U.S. national security, focusing on the design, construction, and refueling of nuclear-powered aircraft carriers and submarines. This industry context demands a culture of precision, safety, quality, and unwavering commitment to mission success.

Company Size: HII is a large enterprise, with its Newport News Shipbuilding division alone employing over 25,000 individuals. This scale implies structured processes, established career paths, and the availability of extensive resources and support systems. For operations professionals, this means opportunities to work on large-scale, impactful projects within a matrixed organization.

Founded: Huntington Ingalls Industries traces its shipbuilding roots back over a century, with Newport News Shipbuilding being a cornerstone. This long history signifies deep institutional knowledge, established best practices, and a legacy of innovation in naval technology.

Team Structure:

• The role is within the Aircraft Carrier Engineering (ACE) Division, specifically focused on New Construction Carriers. This team likely comprises a mix of senior engineers, project managers, technical specialists, and support staff dedicated to the complex lifecycle of carrier design and construction.

• The Deputy Ship Design Manager will report to a Ship Design Manager or Director within the ACE Division, likely within the E49 CVN 21 PRD MDL MGT team. This structure suggests a hierarchical management approach common in large engineering firms.

• Close collaboration is expected with various departments, including design engineering, production, planning, quality assurance, government representatives (NAVSEA, SOS), and potentially supply chain and program management offices. Methodology:

• Data-driven decision-making is paramount, especially concerning schedule adherence, budget management, and EVMS performance.

• Workflow planning and optimization are central, focusing on the efficient production of engineering deliverables and the seamless integration of changes.

• Automation and efficiency practices are likely encouraged, particularly in managing documentation, tracking progress, and facilitating communication across large teams.

Company Website: https://www.huntingtoningalls.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture at HII, especially within NNS, is deeply rooted in precision, safety, and long-term project execution for national defense. The scale of operations necessitates robust process adherence and clear communication channels, making this role ideal for operations professionals who thrive in structured, mission-critical environments.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position is classified as "Engineer 4," indicating a senior-level role within the engineering and management hierarchy. It represents a significant step beyond individual contributor roles, involving team leadership, strategic planning, and substantial project oversight. It's a position that demands seasoned professionals with a proven track record in complex engineering program management.

Reporting Structure: The Deputy Ship Design Manager will report to a Ship Design Manager or equivalent senior leadership within the Aircraft Carrier Engineering (ACE) Division. This role will likely involve direct oversight of a team of engineers and technical staff, and will require frequent interaction with program management, government representatives, and cross-functional department heads.

Operations Impact: The operations managed by this role directly influence the successful and timely delivery of U.S. Navy aircraft carriers, which are critical national assets. Effective management of engineering schedules, processes, and contract compliance ensures cost-efficiency, adherence to specifications, and ultimately, the operational readiness of the fleet. The role's impact extends to financial performance through EVMS tracking and budget management, and to strategic client relationships through direct government customer interface.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to progress to Ship Design Manager, Program Manager, or Director-level positions within HII's shipbuilding divisions, overseeing larger programs or broader functional areas.

• Specialization Deepening: Opportunities to become a subject matter expert in specific areas of naval architecture, carrier design, or government contracting, leading to specialized technical leadership roles.

• Cross-Functional Mobility: Potential to move into roles within program management, business development, or operations leadership in other HII sectors, leveraging experience in large-scale project execution and government relations.

• Professional Development: Access to HII's extensive training programs, including leadership development, project management certifications (like PMP), and technical training relevant to naval engineering and shipbuilding.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Engineer 4" title and the responsibilities outlined clearly position this role as a critical leadership opportunity within HII's operations. Career progression is likely tied to successful project delivery, demonstrated leadership, and a deepening expertise in naval shipbuilding and government contracting.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role with no telework opportunities, reflecting the hands-on nature of managing complex shipbuilding projects. The work will primarily be conducted from a professional office setting within the Newport News Shipbuilding facilities.

Office Location(s): The primary work location is Newport News, Virginia. This facility is a major shipbuilding and repair yard, implying a dynamic and active industrial environment.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will be collaborative, requiring close interaction with a diverse team of engineers, project managers, and technical specialists.

• Access to necessary engineering software, project management tools, and communication systems will be provided. The environment likely fosters a culture of open communication and problem-solving.

• Opportunities for direct engagement with shipyard operations, production teams, and government representatives will be frequent, providing a comprehensive view of the shipbuilding process.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is typically 40 hours per week, primarily on the 1st shift. However, given the critical nature of shipbuilding contracts and deadlines, flexibility and potential for overtime or adjusted hours to meet project milestones are expected.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement is crucial for this role, emphasizing the need for direct oversight, team collaboration, and physical presence within a large industrial and engineering complex. The environment is likely fast-paced and demanding, requiring adaptability and strong communication skills to navigate the complexities of shipbuilding operations.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Application review by HR and the hiring team to assess alignment with minimum qualifications (education, experience, core skills).

• Technical Interview: In-depth discussion focused on engineering principles, project management methodologies, experience with shipbuilding processes, and familiarity with government contracting. Expect questions on scheduling, EVMS, change management, and stakeholder engagement.

• Behavioral Interview: Assessment of leadership style, problem-solving approach, cross-functional collaboration, and ability to handle pressure. Questions will likely focus on past experiences demonstrating key competencies.

• Portfolio Review/Presentation: Candidates may be asked to present specific examples from their portfolio showcasing their experience in managing engineering products, process improvements, or resolving complex project issues. This is a critical step to demonstrate practical application of skills.

• Final Interview: Discussion with senior leadership to assess cultural fit, strategic thinking, and overall suitability for the role and HII's mission.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Achievements: For each project or initiative, highlight measurable outcomes such as schedule adherence percentages, cost savings achieved, efficiency improvements (e.g., reduced cycle times), or successful contract compliance metrics.

• Demonstrate Process Expertise: Showcase your involvement in developing, implementing, or improving engineering processes. Use flowcharts or descriptive narratives to illustrate your understanding of workflow optimization and change management.

• Highlight Stakeholder Management: Include examples of successful collaboration with diverse stakeholders, particularly government customers or cross-functional teams. Detail your communication strategies and how you navigated complex relationships.

• Focus on Relevance: Tailor your portfolio to emphasize experience directly relevant to shipbuilding, government contracting, and complex project management. Highlight any familiarity with naval engineering, carrier programs, or specific government agencies (NAVSEA, PEO-C).

Challenge Preparation:

• Process Mapping Exercise: Be prepared to walk through a hypothetical process (e.g., managing a change request) and explain your approach to ensuring efficiency, compliance, and stakeholder alignment.

• Problem-Solving Scenario: Expect scenarios related to schedule delays, technical disputes, or resource constraints. Articulate your problem-solving methodology and how you would drive resolution.

• Leadership Demonstration: Prepare examples of how you have led teams through challenging projects, motivated personnel, and fostered a collaborative work environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily scrutinize practical experience and the ability to articulate complex project management and engineering challenges. A well-structured portfolio that demonstrates quantifiable results and a deep understanding of shipbuilding operations and government contracting will be a significant advantage.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency in industry-standard project management tools (e.g., Microsoft Project, Primavera P6) for scheduling, resource allocation, and progress tracking.

• Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) Systems: Familiarity with PLM systems used for managing engineering data, product models, and design documentation.

• Collaboration Platforms: Experience with tools like Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, or similar platforms for team communication, document sharing, and workflow management.

• ERP Systems: Exposure to Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems for managing integrated business processes, including finance, procurement, and project accounting.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Earned Value Management System (EVMS) Tools: Direct experience in utilizing EVMS for project performance tracking, forecasting, and reporting is critical.

• Data Analysis Tools: Competency in using tools like Microsoft Excel (advanced functions, pivot tables) or potentially business intelligence tools for analyzing project data, identifying trends, and generating reports.

• Reporting Dashboards: Experience in contributing to or utilizing project dashboards for visualizing key performance indicators (KPIs) related to schedule, budget, and technical progress.

CRM & Automation:

• Contract Management Systems: Familiarity with systems or processes for managing contract terms, deliverables, and compliance requirements.

• Workflow Automation Tools: While not explicitly stated, an understanding of how workflow automation can streamline engineering processes (e.g., document approvals) would be beneficial.

• Data Integration Concepts: Awareness of how different systems (e.g., PLM, ERP, PM tools) integrate to provide a cohesive view of project status.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific software names aren't listed, the role strongly implies a need for expertise in project management, EVMS, and potentially PLM systems common in large-scale engineering and manufacturing environments. Proficiency in data analysis for reporting and decision-making is also essential.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Mission Focus & Dedication: A strong commitment to the U.S. Navy's mission and the critical role shipbuilding plays in national security. This translates to a culture of dedication, responsibility, and long-term commitment.

• Precision & Quality: An unwavering emphasis on accuracy, attention to detail, and adherence to strict quality standards in all engineering and production activities.

• Integrity & Ethics: A foundation of honesty, transparency, and ethical conduct in all dealings, especially with government clients and in managing public funds.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: A recognition that complex projects require seamless cooperation across diverse teams, departments, and with external stakeholders.

• Continuous Improvement: A drive to constantly evaluate and enhance processes, technologies, and methodologies to achieve greater efficiency and effectiveness.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Expect a highly integrated approach where engineering, design, planning, and production teams work in close concert, with the Deputy Ship Design Manager acting as a key facilitator.

• Process Review Culture: A culture that encourages open discussion and review of existing processes to identify opportunities for optimization and risk mitigation. Feedback loops between different functions are crucial.

• Knowledge Sharing: Emphasis on sharing lessons learned and best practices across projects and teams to foster collective growth and prevent recurring issues, particularly concerning technical specifications and government requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at HII is deeply influenced by its mission-critical work in defense. Professionals in this environment are expected to be highly disciplined, collaborative, and committed to quality and integrity. The emphasis on teamwork and process improvement is vital for navigating the complexities of large-scale shipbuilding.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Complex Schedules: The sheer scale and interdependencies of aircraft carrier construction present significant scheduling challenges, requiring robust planning and proactive risk management.

• Navigating Government Contracts: Dealing with intricate government contracts, evolving specifications, and diverse stakeholder expectations demands strong contract management and negotiation skills.

• Cross-Functional Coordination: Ensuring seamless communication and alignment across numerous departments (engineering, production, supply chain, quality) and with external government entities can be a significant hurdle.

• Adapting to Evolving Technologies: Keeping pace with advancements in shipbuilding technology, design tools, and materials while maintaining adherence to long-standing program requirements requires continuous learning and adaptability.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Project Management: Opportunities to pursue further certifications (e.g., PMP, Agile methodologies) and training in complex program management.

• Naval Architecture & Engineering Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas of naval engineering, carrier systems, or related technical disciplines through internal training and external resources.

• Leadership Development Programs: Access to HII's structured leadership development programs designed to cultivate future leaders within the organization.

• Industry Engagement: Potential to attend relevant industry conferences, workshops, and engage with professional engineering societies to stay abreast of best practices and innovations in shipbuilding and defense.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents substantial challenges inherent in large-scale government contracting and complex engineering projects. However, these challenges are paralleled by significant growth opportunities for professionals seeking to advance their careers in leadership, specialized technical domains, and strategic operations management within the defense industry.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you successfully managed a complex engineering schedule with multiple interdependencies. What tools and strategies did you use, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on project management, scheduling tools, and EVMS concepts).

• "How have you managed significant changes to project scope or specifications in a government contracting environment? Detail your process for evaluating, approving, and implementing these changes." (Focus on change management, contract compliance, and stakeholder communication).

• "Walk me through your approach to resolving a critical engineering issue that involved multiple departments and potentially conflicting priorities. How did you ensure alignment and achieve a resolution?" (Focus on cross-functional collaboration, problem-solving methodology, and leadership). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about HII and specifically the role of Deputy Ship Design Manager for aircraft carriers?" (Research HII's mission, recent projects, and express genuine interest in defense shipbuilding).

• "How do you foster a culture of quality and continuous improvement within an engineering team, especially one working on mission-critical projects?" (Align your answer with HII's values of precision, quality, and improvement).

• "Describe your experience working with government customers. What are the key considerations for successful engagement in this context?" (Highlight experience with NAVSEA, PEO-C, or similar entities if applicable, and emphasize communication, transparency, and compliance). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each portfolio example, use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to clearly articulate the context, your role, the steps you took, and the quantifiable outcomes.

• Visualize Data: Use charts, graphs, and simplified process diagrams to illustrate complex information like schedules, budgets, or process flows. Ensure these visuals are clear and easy to understand quickly.

• Focus on Impact: Clearly articulate the "so what?" for each example. How did your actions benefit the project, the company, or the customer? Emphasize ROI, efficiency gains, risk mitigation, or improved quality.

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate questions about the technical details, the challenges faced, and alternative approaches you considered. Be ready to discuss your decision-making process thoroughly.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should heavily emphasize practical, experience-based answers. Candidates should be ready to demonstrate not just theoretical knowledge but a proven ability to manage complex projects, lead teams, and navigate the specific demands of government contracting within the shipbuilding industry.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the Huntington Ingalls Industries careers portal.

• Tailor Your Resume: Ensure your resume clearly highlights experience in project management, engineering product delivery, contract compliance, EVMS, and any relevant shipbuilding or government contracting experience. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a selection of your strongest work examples that demonstrate your ability to manage schedules, implement process improvements, resolve complex issues, and interface with stakeholders. Focus on quantifiable achievements and relevance to naval shipbuilding.

• Research HII and NNS: Understand the company's mission, values, current projects (especially Ford-class carriers), and the importance of their role in national defense. This will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate genuine interest.

• Practice Your Interview Responses: Rehearse answers to common behavioral and technical questions, focusing on using the STAR method and clearly articulating your experience and problem-solving approach. Be prepared to discuss your portfolio in detail.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.