Naval Architect

Role details

BULWARK DYNAMICS

Apply here: https://www.bulwarkdynamics.com/jobs/naval-architect

We are hiring a Mid to Senior Level Naval Architect to take complete ownership over our vessels' naval architecture — including clean-sheet hull hydrodynamics, structural design, stability, and weight management — for our next 15ft and 35ft prototypes. This role begins ASAP and is structured around a critical, high-stakes build sprint. You will report directly to our CTO (former NASA Chief Engineer).

Responsibilities

• End-to-End Ownership: Design, fabricate, and fully own the hull form, structural layout, and overall naval architecture for our 15-ft and 35-ft prototype vessels.
• Hydrodynamics & Stability: Perform resistance/powering calculations, intact/damage stability analysis, and seakeeping assessments for high-speed, autonomous operations in rough maritime environments.
• Rapid CAD-to-Reality: Use Rhino, Maxsurf, and/or SolidWorks for detailed manufacturing designs, structural engineering, and relentlessly iterate based on physical ocean testing.
• Fabrication Oversight: Oversee rapid prototype manufacturing, including FRP composite layups and marine-grade metalwork (aluminum).
• Field Deployment / Sea Trials: Integrate mechanical/autonomous subsystems with cross-functional teams, troubleshoot on the fly, and operate as a core maritime crew member during rugged ocean deployments and sea trials.

Requirements

• Export control: This role involves access to technology and technical data controlled under U.S. export-control laws (ITAR/EAR). You must be able to meet applicable U.S. export-control requirements, which may include qualifying as a "U.S. person" (U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or other protected individual).
• BS in Naval Architecture, Ocean Engineering, or equivalent hands-on experience, with 3+ years designing high-performance marine vessels, USVs, or specialized watercraft.
• Uncompromising proficiency in naval architecture software (Rhino, Maxsurf, NAPA, etc.) and SolidWorks. Strong practical intuition for marine structural analysis, DFM, and weight control, especially for FRP structures.
• Strong practical knowledge of rapid prototype assembly and structural systems. R&D experience with FRP composites, marine aluminum fabrication, or high-speed craft is a massive plus.
• Proven ability to manage multiple rapid deadlines independently and own early-stage marine hardware from sketch to functional deployment.

Nice to Have

• 3+ years work experience in ship/boat design.
• Direct experience designing high-speed planing hulls or autonomous surface vehicles (ASVs/USVs).
• Experience building early-stage marine hardware prototypes.
• Ownership of projects from clean-sheet start to finish.
• Deep knowledge of marine structural systems, with an emphasis on FRP composites and alloys.
• Operational experience working with deployed vessels, conducting sea trials, or maritime operations.
• Familiarity with maritime regulations (USCG, ABS) and applying them to novel/uncrewed vessels.

Compensation & Benefits

• Base pay: $105,000 – $165,000 per year, depending on experience.
• Equity: early-stage stock options.
• Benefits: employer-sponsored health, dental, and vision coverage.

Apply here: https://www.bulwarkdynamics.com/jobs/naval-architect

Pay: $105,000.00 - $165,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Vision insurance

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Menlo Park, CA 94025