The Director of Structural Systems – Fabrication and Outfitting is a senior technical and operational leader responsible for overseeing the design, integration, and execution of structural systems and outfitting components for vessels built to NAVSEA, ABS, and other classification standards. This role ensures that hull structures, decks, bulkheads, structural supports, and mission-critical outfitting are engineered, fabricated, and installed with precision, safety, and full regulatory compliance.
Lead and manage all structural system engineering, fabrication, and outfitting efforts for Navy, Coast Guard, and ABS-class commercial vessels.
Oversee structural design validation, welding engineering, outfitting interfaces, and production planning for hull and superstructure components.
Ensure compliance with NAVSEA design criteria (DCRs), ABS Rules, MIL-STD specifications, and shipbuilding quality standards.
Direct the integration of structural systems with mechanical, piping, electrical, and HVAC outfitting in coordination with cross-functional teams.
Approve fabrication drawings, weld maps, outfitting arrangements, and installation plans to support efficient construction.
Supervise production support engineering during structural block fabrication, erection, and outfitting phases.
Manage resolution of technical issues during construction, inspections, and sea trials in coordination with QA, client representatives, and regulatory bodies.
Lead interface with NAVSEA representatives, ABS surveyors, and government oversight teams during inspections, design reviews, and milestone approvals.
Implement structural outfitting strategies aligned with modular construction, pre-outfitting, and mission system integration.
Oversee a team of structural engineers, welding engineers, designers, and outfitting leads to ensure design-build alignment.
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Naval Architecture, Structural Engineering, Marine Engineering, or related field.
12+ years of experience in structural design and fabrication engineering for military or commercial vessels, with 5+ years in a senior leadership role.
Deep knowledge of NAVSEA requirements, ABS classification rules, and MIL-STD shipbuilding specifications.
Expertise in structural design tools (ShipConstructor, AVEVA Marine, AutoCAD, Rhino), welding engineering, and modular assembly planning.
Familiarity with outfitting systems integration including foundations, penetrations, hangers, and structural supports.
Strong leadership and organizational skills, with experience managing interdisciplinary engineering and production teams.
Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills, including experience with government contracts and regulatory audits.
Experience with combatant or auxiliary naval vessel programs (e.g., LCS, FFG, LPD, DDG).
Certified Welding Inspector (AWS-CWI or CSWIP) or certification in naval/military quality standards.
Prior experience working in a NAVSEA-certified shipyard or Tier-1 naval contractor environment.
Familiarity with Earned Value Management (EVM), Integrated Master Schedule (IMS), and shipbuilding KPIs.
Office and shipyard environment with regular field presence during fabrication, assembly, and outfitting operations.
Must be able to access ship structures, climb ladders, and participate in structural walkdowns and inspections.
May require travel to client sites, design review meetings, or supplier facilities supporting structural systems.