Naval Engineer/Architect
Listed on 2026-02-28
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Engineering
Manufacturing Engineer, Engineering Design & Technologists, Mechanical Engineer
Location: Sarasota
Overview
Teak decking Systems is the world’s premier manufacturer of marine decking, with 40 years of experience engineering and installing custom pre-assembled modular teak and composite decks. We have built over 50,000 decks for all types of yachts, so we have the knowledge and background to assist designers, boatyards and owners to create well-designed, long-lasting decks.
POSITION SUMMARY:
The Naval Engineer / Architect is responsible for leading and supervising the Engineering/CAD Design Department and Project Managers s role combines technical naval architecture expertise with hands-on leadership, ensuring all deck designs are completed in a timely and accurate manner, meeting structural, regulatory, manufacturing, and aesthetic requirements. The position works closely with Sales, Production, CNC, Project Managers, and Quality Assurance.
Responsibilities- Design & Engineering Leadership
- Oversee the complete CAD design process for boat decks, including structural layouts, assemblies, and detailed drawings
- Review, validate, and approve design outputs for accuracy, feasibility, and compliance with TDS standards
- Ensure designs meet customer specifications, performance criteria, and regulatory requirements
- Apply naval engineering and architectural principles to deck structural integrity, load distribution, ergonomics, and safety
- CAD Design Department Supervision
- Manage, mentor, and develop the CAD design team, and performance reviews
- Establish and enforce CAD standards, drawing conventions, and document control procedures
- Assigns and schedules CAD work assignments and digitizing trips to vessel locations
- Drive continuous improvement in design workflows, tools, and best practices
- Coordinate workload and priorities to meet project timelines and production deadlines
- CNC Tool Pathing & Manufacturing Integration
- Oversee and approve CNC tool path generation for deck components, panels, and subassemblies
- Ensure CAD models are optimized for CNC machining, including material thickness, tolerances, cut strategies, and fixturing considerations
- Collaborate with CNC operators and manufacturing engineers to refine tool paths for efficiency, accuracy, and material utilization
- Troubleshoot CNC machining issues related to design, tool paths, or material behavior
- Support continuous improvement initiatives to reduce cycle times, scrap, and rework through improved CAD/CAM integration
- Cross‑Functional Collaboration
- Collaborate closely with manufacturing and production teams to ensure designs are optimized for fabrication and installation
- Support sales and customer service with technical input, feasibility reviews, and design modifications
- Work with procurement and suppliers to ensure material compatibility and availability
- Participate in design reviews, problem-solving sessions, and root-cause analyses
- Documentation & Compliance
- Maintain accurate technical documentation, drawings, bills of material (BOMs), and revision histories
- Ensure compliance with applicable marine regulations, safety standards, and customer requirements
- Support audits, certifications, and quality control initiatives as required
- Perform all related duties as assigned
- Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Naval Architecture, Marine Engineering, or a related engineering discipline preferred
- 5+ years of experience in naval engineering or marine design, with supervisory or leadership experience preferred
- Experience in boat manufacturing or marine component manufacturing strongly preferred
- Technical Skills
- Advanced proficiency in CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, Solid Works, Rhino, Inventor, or similar marine-focused design tools)
- Strong understanding of marine structures, materials such as wood and composite, and deck construction methods
- Knowledge of manufacturing processes such as machining, composites, and modular assembly
- Ability to interpret and apply class rules, standards, and regulatory requirements
- Leadership & Soft Skills
- Proven ability to lead and develop a technical design team
- Strong communication skills, both written and verbal
- Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities
- Detail-oriented with strong organizational and time-management skills
- Must have the ability to travel 20% to ship yards, trade shows, work locations, etc.
Teak decking Systems in an Equal Opportunity employer.
TDS is a Drug-Free Workplace, which test includes marijuana.
We do not accept medical marijuana cards.
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