The VP of Mechanical Engineering – Ship Systems will provide strategic and technical leadership across all mechanical engineering disciplines involved in the design, development, and delivery of ship systems. This includes propulsion systems, HVAC, fluid and piping networks, power generation, machinery integration, and auxiliary systems across naval, commercial, or offshore platforms.
This executive role will oversee engineering execution, technical innovation, team development, regulatory compliance, and strategic alignment with company goals, ensuring the success of complex, multi-year marine engineering programs.
Lead and manage the entire mechanical engineering function for shipboard systems, ensuring world-class technical execution and innovation.
Develop and implement long-term strategies for system architecture, integration, and lifecycle management of ship mechanical systems.
Oversee mechanical system design across propulsion, HVAC, piping, hydraulics, fuel, lube oil, ballast, and auxiliary machinery.
Ensure compliance with industry standards, classification society rules (e.g., ABS, DNV, Lloyd’s, USCG), and customer-specific requirements (e.g., MIL-SPEC).
Guide engineering development from concept through production, commissioning, and sustainment phases.
Partner with naval architecture, electrical, controls, and structural engineering teams for full-system integration.
Build and lead high-performing technical teams, establish engineering standards, and promote knowledge sharing and technical mentorship.
Review and approve critical design packages, technical documentation, analyses, and risk assessments.
Collaborate with program management, operations, procurement, and business development teams to align on technical scope, resourcing, and delivery commitments.
Identify and implement opportunities for continuous improvement, digital engineering, sustainability, and emerging technology integration.
Represent the mechanical engineering function at executive reviews, customer engagements, industry forums, and government audits.
Shipboard Mechanical System Leadership
End-to-end oversight of marine mechanical systems from propulsion to auxiliary machinery.
Cross-Disciplinary Integration
Coordinate closely with electrical, controls, and naval architecture teams for full ship integration.
Compliance & Certification
Ensure adherence to classification societies and regulatory bodies, including defense compliance where applicable.
Technical Excellence & Innovation
Drive R&D, sustainable design initiatives, and adoption of advanced technologies such as hybrid propulsion, smart systems, and digital twins.
Organizational Development & Mentorship
Build future engineering leaders and foster a strong culture of technical rigor, accountability, and collaboration.
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical or Marine Engineering; PhD or PE license preferred.
15+ years of engineering experience in ship systems, with at least 5 years in executive or senior leadership roles.
Strong expertise in ship propulsion (diesel, gas turbine, hybrid), HVAC, fuel systems, hydraulics, and machinery layout.
Proven experience in managing multi-disciplinary engineering teams across multiple programs and locations.
Deep familiarity with ship classification rules (ABS, DNV, Lloyd’s) and naval or offshore platform requirements.
Strong leadership, project execution, budgeting, and stakeholder management skills.
Proficiency with engineering tools (AutoCAD, AVEVA Marine, Siemens NX, CAE/CFD/FEM tools, CMMS platforms).
Ability to balance strategic direction with hands-on technical problem-solving and decision-making.
Experience with naval shipbuilding programs or offshore platform development.
Background in lifecycle engineering, ship modernization, or sustainment programs.
Exposure to systems engineering practices, model-based design, or digital shipyard initiatives.
Active involvement in marine engineering societies (SNAME, ASNE, etc.)