Naval architect
Career outlook for naval architect
Figures and forecasts for roles at the same level, which require similar skills and qualifications.
Average UK salary
£44,720
Currently employed in Scotland
7,200
Average UK salary
£44,720
Currently employed in Scotland
7,200
"LMI for All" supplies our salary and employment status information. "Oxford Economics" supplies job forecasts and employment figures.
Due to COVID-19 the jobs market is constantly changing. Some of the information may not reflect the current situation.
What's it like?
You would design, build and repair vessels such as ships and boats, and offshore structures such as drilling platforms.
You would:
- Manage the work of engineering design teams
- Make sure that designs are safe, functional and good value for money
- Prepare design plans using computer software
- Check and test plans using computers and 3D models
- Organise production and repairs
You could specialise in a particular area, such as design, building and repair work, research and development, or consultancy.
You could also work for the Maritime and Coastguard Agency as a ship surveyor. You would then check the safety of ships and marine structures.
Working conditions
Hours
Environment
Travel
UK employment status
Full-time
88%
Part-time
5%
Self employed
7%
Create a qualification route
We’ve found some examples of the qualifications that could help you get this job.
Discover my routeTop skills
Here are some of the skills needed for this job. Sign in to see how your skills match up.
- Cooperating
- Working with technology
- Problem solving
- Observation
- Researching
- Attention to detail
- Developing a plan
- Managing resources
- Coaching
- Delegating
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Entry requirements for courses can change. Always contact the college, university or training provider to check exactly what you’ll need.
Qualifications
You would need:
- a Marine Engineering Higher National Certificate (SCQF level 7)
- or a Higher National Diploma (SCQF level 8)
- or a degree in Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering (SCQF level 9/10)
- or an Engineering or Physics degree and Marine Engineering postgraduate qualification (SCQF level 11)
Course must be recognised by the Royal Institution of Naval Architects (RINA).
You can enter a Higher National Certificate (SCQF level 7) or Higher National Diploma courses (SCQF level 8) with National 4/5 qualifications and one to two Highers or equivalent qualifications.
Entry to a degree (SCFQ level 9/10) requires National 5 qualifications and Highers at AAAB, Advanced Highers may be asked for, or a relevant HNC/HND.
Useful subjects
- Maths (required by many courses and employers)
- Science subjects, in particular physics and chemistry (required by many courses and employers)
- English
- Design and technologies subjects such as engineering science
You will also need
After completing your initial training you would follow a RINA-accredited scheme of work-based professional development.
You would then complete a minimum of two years work experience before applying to the Engineering Council for incorporated or chartered engineer status and full membership of RINA.
Helpful to have
Qualifications and experience that show understanding of the navy, engineering, structural design and building such as Skills for Work Engineering Skills (SCFQ level 4) or Maritime Skills (SCFQ level 5) could be useful when applying to courses.
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