Job description for Naval Architect

Are you a naval architect inspired to work on cutting-edge defence projects? If so, we have an incredible opportunity for you to join Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S). Here, you’ll be at the forefront of naval architecture, solving unique technical challenges and collaborating with our partners to introduce new methods and technologies in support of the Royal Navy and Royal Fleet Auxiliary.

You will become part of a dedicated team of engineers working on high-profile projects that deliver critical defence capabilities. Managed within a specialist skills group, you will be assigned to projects based on priority and your individual development goals. Whether involved in ship acquisition or through-life support, you’ll face high tempo naval architecture challenges.

As a naval architect, you’ll leverage your communication and influencing skills to build strong relationships with both internal and external stakeholders. Your role will be crucial in obtaining and relaying information vital to our projects. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to travel to various UK locations, including naval vessels and military facilities.

We champion flexible ways of working. Regular in-person attendance is required to promote the benefits of face-to-face collaboration alongside flexibility of hours to support work-life balance. Initially, you may be expected to attend more frequently to familiarise yourselves with the site, the team, and your role.

What you’ll be doing

• Drafting or reviewing technical artefacts, models, layouts and reports as part of the assurance and acceptance process
• Carrying out inclining experiments, stability analysis, weight management, and other dockyard activities such as build surveillance
• Attending design reviews to provide guidance on integrating new equipment into ships
• Providing technical expertise for ship hydrodynamics, ship structures, seakeeping and/or escape and evacuation
• Utilising technical software tools such as Paramarine, to support stability plan approval and generate stability and/or structures operator guidance
• Collaborating with the Naval Authority and Technology Group (NATG) and Classification Societies to maintain certification
• Serving as the point of contact for naval architecture inquiries, attending working groups, and providing feedback to stakeholders, industry partners, and senior management
• Visiting shipyards for inspections, surveys and meetings

Person specification

To be successful with your application, you’ll need to show that you meet the following essential criteria:

• Relevant Level 4 (or higher) qualification or equivalent experience
• Technical experience in naval architecture and associated software tools
• Have experience of working in a team which involves a variety of stakeholders to make technical decisions and delivering shared goals

In addition to the responsibilities above, the following technical competences and behaviours will be assessed at interview:

• Application of Analytical Techniques – Supervised Practitioner
• Technical Decision Making – Supervised Practitioner
• Communicating and Influencing
• Seeing The Bigger Picture

Benefits

Alongside your salary of £36,800, Ministry of Defence contributes £10,660 towards you being a member of the Civil Service Defined Benefit Pension scheme. Find out what benefits a Civil Service Pension provides.

• 25 days’ annual leave +1 day a year up to 30 days, 8 bank holidays and a day off for the King’s birthday
• Flexible and hybrid working options
• Market-leading average employer pension contribution of 28.97%
• Annual performance-based bonus and recognition awards
• Access to specialist training and funded qualifications
• Support for progression
• Huge range of discounts
• Volunteering days
• Enhanced parental leave schemes

Improving innovation and enriching our culture, diversity of thought is vital to our success. So whether you’re looking for a new opportunity, a next step, or a helping hand as you return from a career break, bring your experiences and help deliver for the defence of tomorrow. Here you’ll find a supportive, family-friendly organisation to be a part of – and if you need any assistance with your application, just let us know.

Further Information

More information can be found below:

• DE&S Little Book of Big Benefits: https://bit.ly/3FEb54v
• Candidate Information Pack: https://bit.ly/DES-Candidate-Information-Pack
• Terms and Conditions: https://bit.ly/DES-SDA-Terms-and-Conditions

Selection Process Details

Your application will go through the following stages of assessment:

1. Pre-sift – We will check that you meet any essential or eligibility criteria that are listed in the Person Specification section of this advert. On your CV, please clearly show how you meet the essential criteria.

2. Sift – Your CV will be assessed against the following categories, using a simple numerical scoring system: Key Achievements; Relevant Experience; Applied Knowledge and Skills

Please follow our guidance on CV writing for best chance of success.

3. Interview – If you’re invited to interview, you’ll be assessed against the Sift categories listed above, as well as the Technical Competences and Behaviours listed in the Person Specification section of this advert.

Feedback will only be provided if you attend an interview.