Shipyard Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Shipyard Design Manager

Company: Senesco Marine, LLC

Location: North Kingstown, Rhode Island, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Engineering & Operations Management

Date Posted: May 04, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10+ Years

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage the technical development of ship construction projects from conceptualization through to final delivery, ensuring adherence to all design specifications and project milestones.

• Direct a team of engineers and drafters, fostering a collaborative environment focused on innovation, efficiency, and technical excellence in shipyard design.

• Oversee the creation and review of all design drawings and documentation, including CAD models, structural plans, and system integrations, ensuring compliance with industry standards and client requirements.

• Act as a critical liaison between design, production, and client stakeholders, facilitating clear communication and resolving technical challenges to maintain project momentum and satisfaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is firmly rooted in engineering management within a specialized industrial environment. While "Revenue Operations" or "Sales Operations" are not directly applicable, the principles of process management, stakeholder communication, and project delivery are highly relevant. The focus is on optimizing the design lifecycle to ensure efficient production and client satisfaction, mirroring the GTM operations focus on streamlining processes for business success.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead, manage, and meticulously review all functional and detailed structural, outfitting, and production drawings (e.g., General Arrangements, Midship sections) for new build and repair projects.

• Guide and manage the functional and detailed engineering efforts for assigned new builds or repair projects, ensuring comprehensive technical solutions.

• Own and direct the overall technical strategy and execution for assigned projects from inception to completion.

• Proactively identify, assess, and report technical risks to the Engineering Director, developing mitigation strategies.

• Manages the training, professional development, and performance of the design engineering personnel.

• Implement and rigorously manage Quality Control (QC) and process instructions within the Design Engineering team to uphold high standards.

• Ensure all ship designs and deliverables strictly comply with Classification Society rules (e.g., ABS, DNV), national and international regulations (SOLAS), client specifications, and Senesco’s production capabilities and preferences.

• Coordinate closely with project managers and production teams to swiftly resolve design conflicts that may arise during the construction phase.

• Track and manage the project deliverables list, ensuring all items are accounted for and due dates are met.

• Manage comprehensive project documentation, including design review records, 3D models, design conflict resolution logs, work instructions, and technical specifications.

• Facilitate critical design review meetings, client presentations, and provide regular progress updates to all relevant stakeholders.

• Send weekly updates detailing the status of engineering deliverables to relevant parties.

• Support marketing and business development efforts by contributing to new ship design programs, including concept design and leading technical proposal development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly indicate a management role with significant technical oversight. The emphasis on regulatory compliance (ABS, DNV, SOLAS) and specific drawing types (General Arrangements, Midship sections) highlights the specialized nature of the work. The inclusion of "production preferences" suggests a strong link between design and manufacturing efficiency, a core tenet of operations.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s degree in engineering, with a strong preference for Naval Architecture or Marine Engineering.

Experience: 5-10+ years of progressive experience in ship design and shipyard engineering, with a demonstrated track record of successful project leadership. This experience must encompass a working understanding of all key aspects of Naval Architecture, Structures, Propulsion and Auxiliaries, Electrical Systems, and Mission Systems.

Required Skills:

• Deep understanding of ship systems, including structural design, piping, HVAC, and marine electrical systems.

• Strong proficiency in AutoCAD and Shipconstructor software for design and modeling.

• Expertise in managing and reviewing functional and detailed engineering drawings and documentation.

• Proven ability to ensure design compliance with Classification Society rules (e.g., ABS, DNV), national, and international maritime regulations (SOLAS).

• Excellent leadership and team management skills, with experience in mentoring and developing engineering personnel.

• Strong organizational abilities, meticulous attention to detail, and the capacity to manage multiple complex tasks simultaneously under strict time constraints.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) and Electronic Document Management Systems (EDMS).

Preferred Skills:

• Proven experience leading complex ship design projects or managing engineering organizations for 5+ years.

• Expertise in the design and engineering of U.S. naval, coast guard, or other government vessels.

• Familiarity with advanced 3D modeling and simulation tools beyond standard CAD.

• Experience in supporting business development with concept design and technical proposal leadership.

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience requirement is specific, requiring not just years but a breadth of technical knowledge across various ship systems. The software requirements (AutoCAD, Shipconstructor) are critical for this role. The "Desired Qualifications" section includes physical demands, which are unusual for a typical office-based operations role but critical for shipyard environments.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate successful leadership of complex ship design projects from concept to delivery, showcasing project scope, challenges, and outcomes.

• Provide examples of technical documentation and drawings (e.g., General Arrangements, structural plans) that highlight your design management capabilities and attention to detail.

• Showcase instances where you successfully resolved design conflicts during the production phase, emphasizing efficiency and problem-solving.

• Illustrate your experience in ensuring design compliance with maritime regulations (ABS, DNV, SOLAS) and client specifications, demonstrating a strong understanding of quality control processes.

Process Documentation:

• Present examples of implemented QC and process instructions within a design engineering team, detailing the impact on efficiency and quality.

• Provide documentation that illustrates your workflow for managing design deliverables, tracking progress, and ensuring timely submission.

• Showcase methodologies used for stakeholder communication, including client presentations, weekly updates, and design review facilitation.

• Detail your approach to managing project documentation, including the use of EDMS and ensuring comprehensive record-keeping.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a design management role, the "portfolio" would heavily lean towards project examples, technical drawings, and documentation showcasing design lifecycle management, regulatory compliance, and team leadership. The emphasis is on tangible outputs and process adherence within a highly regulated industry.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for Shipyard Design Managers in the Rhode Island area with 5-10+ years of experience, a competitive salary range is estimated between $110,000 - $150,000 annually. This estimate considers the specialized technical expertise, leadership responsibilities, and the cost of living in the region.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Retirement savings plan (e.g., 401(k)) with potential company match.

• Paid time off (PTO), including vacation days, sick leave, and paid holidays.

• Life insurance and accidental death & dismemberment (AD&D) coverage.

• Opportunities for professional development, including training, certifications, and attendance at industry conferences.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses or profit-sharing.

Working Hours: Standard full-time work schedule, typically 40 hours per week. Flexibility may be required based on project deadlines and urgent production needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimation is based on general market data for engineering management roles in shipbuilding and similar heavy industries in the northeastern United States. Specific benefits packages can vary significantly and should be confirmed with the employer. The mention of physical demands might influence the perception of work-life balance for some candidates.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Shipbuilding and Marine Services. Senesco Marine is positioned within a sector that demands precision, adherence to strict regulations, and robust engineering capabilities for complex vessel construction and repair.

Company Size: Senesco Marine is a medium-sized enterprise, likely employing between 50-250 individuals. This size often allows for a more close-knit team environment, where individual contributions are highly visible and impactful, while still possessing the resources to undertake significant projects.

Founded: While the specific founding date isn't provided, Senesco Marine has established itself as a reputable player in the maritime industry. Its history likely reflects a commitment to quality craftsmanship and engineering excellence.

Team Structure:

• The Design Engineering team is likely composed of specialized engineers (Naval Architects, Marine Engineers, Structural Engineers) and drafters, reporting to the Engineering Director.

• The Design Manager will have a direct reporting line to the Engineering Director, with a team of engineers and drafters reporting to them.

Methodology:

• Data Analysis: Design decisions are heavily influenced by regulatory requirements, performance metrics, and material properties, requiring rigorous data analysis.

• Workflow Planning: The design process involves structured workflows, from concept to detailed drawings, with clear phases for review, approval, and revision.

• Automation & Efficiency: While not explicitly stated as a primary focus, the use of CAD and EDMS implies a reliance on digital tools for efficiency. The role also involves optimizing design processes for production efficiency.

Company Website: https://senesco-marine.breezy.hr (Note: This appears to be a hiring portal link, the primary company website is likely senescomarine.com)

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is expected to be results-oriented, with a strong emphasis on safety, quality, and technical proficiency. Given the industry, a hierarchical structure with clear lines of authority and responsibility is probable. Collaboration is key, but within defined project scopes and regulatory frameworks.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior-level engineering management position. It requires not only a strong technical foundation but also proven leadership capabilities in managing teams, projects, and critical technical processes within a specialized industrial setting. The scope includes strategic input into design methodologies and direct impact on project success and production efficiency.

Reporting Structure: The Shipyard Design Manager typically reports to an Engineering Director or Chief Naval Architect. They, in turn, manage a team of engineers and drafters. This position involves significant interaction and collaboration with other operational departments such as Project Management, Production, and Quality Assurance.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's operations impact is profound. Effective design management directly influences:

• Project Timelines: Accurate and timely designs prevent production delays.

• Budget Adherence: Optimized designs minimize material waste, rework, and cost overruns.

• Product Quality & Performance: Designs must meet or exceed client specifications and regulatory standards.

• Safety: Designs must incorporate safety features and comply with all safety regulations, impacting worker and vessel safety.

• Client Satisfaction: Successful delivery of designs that meet client needs fosters repeat business and positive reputation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Leadership: Advancement to Engineering Director, Chief Naval Architect, or VP of Engineering roles.

• Specialization: Deepening expertise in specific areas like advanced hull design, propulsion systems, or naval architecture for specialized vessels.

• Project Management: Transitioning into senior project management roles with oversight of entire ship construction projects.

• Business Development: Leveraging technical expertise to contribute to sales, bidding, and client acquisition efforts.

• Process Improvement: Taking on roles focused on optimizing design and engineering processes across the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path is clearly defined within engineering and operations management, with opportunities to move into higher-level leadership or specialized technical roles. The impact on the business is significant, directly affecting profitability and operational efficiency.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is primarily office-based, situated within a shipyard environment. This means the workspace will likely be in an engineering office building located on the shipyard premises.

Office Location(s): North Kingstown, Rhode Island. This location offers access to a skilled workforce and is part of a region with maritime industry presence.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The office will foster collaboration among the design team, project managers, and production leads, with frequent cross-functional meetings and discussions.

• Tools and Technology: Access to high-performance workstations equipped with specialized design software (AutoCAD, Shipconstructor), EDMS, and standard office productivity tools.

• Team Interaction: Regular interaction with engineers, drafters, project managers, and potentially clients during design reviews. The role also requires occasional site visits to production areas and vessels under construction.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is typically Monday to Friday, 40 hours per week. However, the demands of shipbuilding projects may necessitate occasional overtime, weekend work, or flexible hours to meet critical deadlines, especially during key design review phases or when addressing urgent production issues.

📝 Enhancement Note: The environment is a blend of typical office work with the realities of a shipyard. This includes potential exposure to industrial noise, the need for safety gear during site visits, and the dynamic pace of construction projects.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess qualifications and experience against the core requirements. Be prepared to highlight your leadership experience and technical expertise in shipbuilding.

• Technical Interview(s): In-depth discussions focusing on your understanding of naval architecture, marine engineering principles, design software proficiency (AutoCAD, Shipconstructor), and regulatory compliance knowledge (ABS, DNV, SOLAS). Expect questions about your approach to technical challenges.

• Managerial/Team Fit Interview: An interview with the hiring manager (likely the Engineering Director) to discuss your leadership style, team management approach, problem-solving abilities, and how you foster collaboration.

• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session to walk through selected projects from your portfolio. Focus on demonstrating your role, the challenges faced, the technical solutions implemented, and the outcomes achieved. Be ready to discuss your contributions to design optimization and regulatory adherence.

• Final Interview: May involve senior leadership or HR to discuss overall fit, compensation, and finalize the offer.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Select 3-5 of your most impactful projects that best showcase your design management and leadership skills in the maritime sector.

• For each project, clearly articulate your specific role, the project's objectives, the technical challenges encountered, the design solutions you implemented, and the quantifiable results (e.g., cost savings, schedule adherence, performance improvements).

• Be prepared to discuss the specific software tools used, design methodologies employed, and how you ensured compliance with relevant regulations.

• Highlight instances of effective team leadership, conflict resolution, and stakeholder communication.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready for hypothetical scenario questions, such as how you would handle a design conflict between structural and outfitting teams, or how you would address a critical design flaw discovered during construction.

• Prepare to discuss your process for implementing new QC procedures or improving existing design workflows.

• Consider how you would approach training and developing junior engineers and drafters.

• Brush up on current trends and challenges in ship design and construction, including sustainability, automation, and evolving regulatory landscapes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is likely rigorous, combining technical depth with leadership assessment. The portfolio review is critical for demonstrating practical application of skills and experience. The physical demands mentioned in the job description may also be a point of discussion to ensure candidate suitability.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: AutoCAD (mandatory), Shipconstructor (mandatory). Proficiency in these is crucial for day-to-day design work and management.

• 3D Modeling Software: Experience with 3D modeling and visualization tools beyond basic CAD is highly beneficial for complex projects.

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with project management tools for tracking deliverables, timelines, and resources (e.g., MS Project, Primavera).

• Electronic Document Management Systems (EDMS): Essential for organizing, versioning, and distributing technical documentation.

Analytics & Reporting:

• MS Excel: For data analysis, creating reports, and managing project metrics.

• Reporting Tools: Experience generating reports on design progress, risk assessments, and compliance status.

• Data Visualization: Ability to translate complex design data into understandable formats for various stakeholders.

CRM & Automation:

• EDMS: Acts as a central repository for all design-related data and documentation.

• Workflow Automation: While not explicitly stated, understanding how to leverage software capabilities to automate repetitive design tasks or approval processes is advantageous.

• Integration: Awareness of how design software integrates with other shipyard systems (e.g., production planning, ERP) is a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core technical tools are clearly identified. Proficiency in AutoCAD and Shipconstructor is non-negotiable. Familiarity with project and document management systems is also key for operational efficiency.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Safety First: A paramount value in any shipyard environment, influencing all design and operational decisions.

• Quality & Precision: Commitment to delivering high-quality, accurate designs that meet stringent maritime standards.

• Collaboration: Fostering teamwork across design, production, and project management to achieve common goals.

• Integrity & Compliance: Upholding ethical standards and ensuring strict adherence to all regulations and client specifications.

• Efficiency & Innovation: Striving for optimized design processes and innovative solutions that enhance production and vessel performance.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The role demands seamless integration with production teams to ensure designs are constructible and efficient. Regular communication with project managers is vital for schedule and budget alignment.

• Process Review: A culture of continuous improvement, where design processes are regularly reviewed and refined based on feedback from production and project outcomes.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging an environment where engineers and drafters share best practices, lessons learned, and technical insights to elevate the team's collective expertise.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture is expected to be industrious, safety-conscious, and technically rigorous. Values will center around delivering complex projects successfully while adhering to strict industry standards and client requirements.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Technical Complexity: Managing intricate ship designs that integrate numerous complex systems (structural, mechanical, electrical, etc.) to meet performance and regulatory demands.

• Cross-functional Coordination: Bridging the gap between design intent and production reality, ensuring smooth communication and conflict resolution with diverse teams.

• Regulatory Landscape: Keeping abreast of evolving maritime regulations (IMO, ABS, DNV, SOLAS) and ensuring designs consistently comply.

• Technological Advancement: Adapting to new design software, simulation tools, and fabrication technologies within the shipbuilding industry.

• Physical Demands: While the role is office-based, occasional site visits to production areas or vessels may involve working in challenging environments (e.g., confined spaces, heights, noise), requiring physical capability and adherence to strict safety protocols.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Certifications: Pursuing specialized certifications in naval architecture, marine engineering, or project management.

• Industry Conferences: Attending maritime and shipbuilding industry events to stay current on best practices, new technologies, and regulatory changes.

• Leadership Training: Development programs focused on enhancing management, communication, and strategic decision-making skills.

• Mentorship: Opportunities to learn from senior engineering leaders within Senesco Marine and potentially gain mentorship from experienced industry professionals.

• Exposure to Diverse Projects: Working on a variety of vessel types and repair projects to broaden technical expertise and project management experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for senior engineering management in heavy industry, with a unique emphasis on the physical aspects of a shipyard environment. Growth opportunities are geared towards deepening technical expertise or advancing into broader leadership roles.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to leading a design team through a complex new build project, from initial concept to final approval. What are the key stages and your role in each?" (Focus on process, team management, and technical oversight).

• "How do you ensure that ship designs comply with stringent regulatory requirements like ABS, DNV, and SOLAS, especially when client specifications might differ?" (Highlight your understanding of compliance, risk management, and stakeholder negotiation).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Senesco Marine and our position in the shipbuilding industry? What attracts you to this role?" (Show research on the company, its projects, and industry standing).

• "How do you foster a culture of safety and quality within an engineering team operating in a shipyard environment?" (Relate to your values and leadership style).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• "Select a project from your portfolio that best demonstrates your ability to manage technical complexity and lead a design team. Please walk us through it." (Prepare a concise narrative focusing on your leadership, problem-solving, and technical contributions, using visual aids if possible).

• "How would you present the key design decisions and compliance aspects of a major project to a client who may not have a deep technical background?" (Focus on clear, concise communication and translating technical details into business value).

• "Show us an example of a critical design document or drawing you managed. What were the key elements, and how did you ensure its accuracy and completeness?" (Highlight your attention to detail and understanding of technical documentation standards).

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating leadership, technical acumen in naval architecture/marine engineering, regulatory knowledge, and strong communication skills. Be prepared to discuss your portfolio in detail and how you handle the unique challenges of a shipyard environment.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Shipyard Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Senesco Marine hiring portal.

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight leadership experience in ship design, specific technical skills (AutoCAD, Shipconstructor), and knowledge of maritime regulations. Quantify achievements whenever possible (e.g., "Managed a team of 10 engineers," "Reduced design review cycles by 15%").

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a selection of your strongest projects that showcase your design management capabilities, technical expertise, and leadership. Be ready to present key projects with detailed explanations of your role, challenges, solutions, and outcomes.

• Research Senesco Marine: Understand the company's history, recent projects, and its position in the maritime industry. Familiarize yourself with the types of vessels they build or repair.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare for technical questions about naval architecture and engineering, leadership scenarios, and questions related to safety and quality in a shipyard setting. Rehearse your portfolio presentation.

⚠️ 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.