The Senior Materials Engineer is the technical authority for selection, validation, and lifecycle performance of materials used in marine environments. This role leads the development and qualification of metallic and composite materials for hull structures, propulsion systems, piping, and topside applications. With deep expertise in corrosion science, failure analysis, and materials engineering standards, the engineer supports critical decision-making across design, construction, maintenance, and retrofitting. The position involves mentoring junior engineers, guiding materials strategy, and interfacing with classification societies and regulatory bodies.
Lead materials selection and performance validation for shipbuilding and marine systems projects
Develop strategies to mitigate corrosion, wear, and fatigue in aggressive saltwater and offshore environments
Direct and interpret failure investigations using metallurgical analysis (e.g., SEM, XRF, microstructure analysis)
Oversee the qualification of marine-grade materials per ABS, DNV, ISO, ASTM, and IMO standards
Develop and approve welding procedures, coatings specifications, and cathodic protection plans
Provide expert consultation on composite integration, hybrid structures, and advanced material technologies
Support the development of maintenance and inspection programs based on materials degradation profiles
Liaise with suppliers, fabricators, shipyards, and classification societies for technical compliance and approvals
Contribute to innovation initiatives, including material substitutions, additive manufacturing, and sustainability improvements
Mentor junior engineers and lead cross-functional reviews for materials-related design inputs
Marine corrosion mitigation and lifecycle materials strategy
Advanced failure analysis and metallurgical investigation
Regulatory compliance and classification approvals
Composite materials and structural hybrid solutions in marine environments
Education:
Bachelor’s degree in Materials Science, Metallurgy, Mechanical Engineering, or Marine Engineering (required)
Master’s degree or professional certification (e.g., CEng, NACE CP, AWS-CWI, PMP) preferred
Experience:
7+ years of experience in materials engineering for the marine, offshore, defense, or shipbuilding sectors
Proven track record in materials selection, failure analysis, and standards compliance for ship structures and marine systems
Experience interfacing with class societies (ABS, DNV, LR, BV) and regulatory bodies (IMO, USCG)
Technical Skills:
Expert knowledge of corrosion science, metallurgy, and fatigue in saltwater exposure
Proficiency in lab testing techniques, coating evaluations, and non-destructive examination (NDE) interpretation
Familiarity with advanced materials (e.g., carbon composites, duplex stainless steels, titanium alloys)
Ability to lead FMEAs, root cause analysis, and technical reviews for critical systems
Skilled with data interpretation tools, materials databases, and simulation inputs for stress/corrosion modeling
Soft Skills:
Leadership in cross-functional environments and multidisciplinary engineering teams
Strong verbal and written communication, including technical reporting and regulatory documentation
High attention to detail with strategic thinking on material risk mitigation
Proven mentorship and coaching abilities