Naval Architect
Naval architects design and oversee the construction, survey and repair of marine craft and floating structures, such as naval craft, passenger and cargo ships, submarines, high-speed ferries and catamarans, tugs, boats, yachts and oil rigs.
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
- work out the most suitable type and size for a vessel and make sure that 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 for the use of 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.
Specialisations:
Naval architects may specialise in structure and design, management, cost calculations, manufacturing processes, research, mechanical practices, hydrodynamics and hydrostatics, stability, propulsion and systems engineering.
They work in a variety of places from drawing offices to shipyards and on board for sea trials.
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.
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