Marine Training Systems Technician and Developer

Overview

American Cruise Lines is seeking a creative, detail-oriented, and technically skilled individual to support the development of high-fidelity models and geographic environments for our maritime simulation system at our Training Center in Salt Lake City, UT. This role will focus on building accurate vessels, waterways, ports, and navigational environments used to train shipboard marine officers in realistic simulator scenarios.

The ideal candidate will have strong 3D modeling experience, a working understanding of maritime operations, and proficiency with Autodesk 3DS Max Pro and Wartsila Model Wizard. They should be comfortable working independently on complex technical projects while collaborating closely with marine training staff to ensure realism, accuracy, and training relevance. A passion for precision, continuous improvement, and professional excellence is essential.

At American Cruise Lines, we are driven by our values— Optimism, Commitment, Patriotism, and Merit. These values shape our culture, our service, and our people, guiding us as we work together to Share America’s Story on the Finest American Ships.

• Develop high-quality 3D vessel models, ports, waterways, shorelines, aids to navigation, and terrain for use in maritime simulation software.
• Create and refine simulator maps and operating areas that accurately reflect the real-world riverine and near-coastal environments that our vessels operate in.
• Utilize 3DS Max Pro for modeling, texturing, and asset optimization, and Wartsila Model Wizard for integration into simulator platforms.
• Collaborate with Marine Training & Development staff and trainers to ensure simulation environments and exercises meet training objectives and operational realities.
• Modify and update existing models and maps based on feedback from instructors and trainees to improve realism and instructional value.
• Ensure all simulation assets meet performance, accuracy, and visual quality standards.
• Maintain organized asset libraries, documentation, and version control for simulator content.
• Support the development of new simulator exercises by creating custom environments and scenario-specific assets.
• Stay current with best practices in 3D modeling, simulation technology, and maritime visualization techniques.
• This position reports directly to the Marine Training & Development Sr. Manager.

• Proficiency in Autodesk 3DS Max Pro for professional 3D modeling and asset creation.
• Working knowledge of Wartsila Model Wizard or demonstrated ability to learn and apply simulator-specific modeling tools quickly.
• Experience creating 3D environments, terrain, or infrastructure for simulation, gaming, visualization, or training applications.
• Familiarity with maritime, nautical, or transportation environments strongly preferred.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to translate real-world reference materials (charts, photos, drawings) into accurate digital models.
• Effective communication and collaboration skills to work with both technical and non-technical team members.
• Strong organization and time-management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
• Practical problem-solving skills and a continuous-improvement mindset.
• Working knowledge of common computer applications (e.g., Microsoft Office, Teams).
• Experience with GIS data, nautical charts, or simulator platforms is a plus, but not required.

• Daily in-person work at our Training Center in Salt Lake City, UT.
• Professional, fast-paced technical and training environment.
• Close collaboration with marine instructors and simulator operators.

• Monday – Friday (8am – 5pm) standard work schedule.
• Periodic schedule and work hour flexibility may be required to support simulator testing or training events.
• Occasional travel to company vessels and industry simulation events, to sustain optimal simulation training.

At American Cruise Lines, our people are the driving force behind our success. As the nation’s leader in U.S. river cruising, we’re experiencing rapid growth — and we re investing in top talent to grow with us. When you join our team, you’ll find a dynamic work environment that values innovation, collaboration, and excellence, with real opportunities to build your career and make an impact.