Structural Engineer I/II

Overview

This position is located on site at the Newport News Shipyard (NNS) in Virginia at the Engineering Liaison Office (ELO).

Department 460 ELO is seeking highly motivated candidates to support submarine construction activities for the COLUMBIA Class. D460 ELO is responsible for the resolution of COLUMBIA design issues, trouble-shooting of construction problems, technical support for manufacturing operations, verification and certification of as-built dimensions and configurations, and implementation of process improvements. The department’s main goal is to provide timely, high quality engineering support for all manufacturing, steel fabrication, and outfitting activities at NNS. In addition, engineers in D460 ELO are exposed to various aspects of submarine design and construction, which provides opportunities for continuous growth, leadership, and advancement as an engineer.

Individuals selected for this position will be responsible for providing the structural and electrical technical support for submarine construction activities for COLUMBIA Class submarines at NNS. This position requires continued progression of technical and project management skills. The successful candidate is expected to help manage construction issues throughout steel fabrication, manufacturing, and outfitting organizations at NNS, and be able to communicate engineering assessment with operations, trade, planning, and ship’s management organizations. They are also expected to relay shipyard priorities to appropriate Newport News Shipyard, Electric Boat, and Navy stakeholders.

Qualifications

Required:

Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Aerospace, Civil (Structural), Naval Architecture, Marine/Ocean, Electrical or equivalent) (Completed by December 2026)

0-5 years of post-graduate engineering experience

The ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Defense Secret clearance

Preferred:

Previous experience with the design, development, and/or operation of naval systems, components, or structure is required.

Experience with troubleshooting, and technical problem solving.

Experience with structural design, evaluation, and/or construction.

Experience with electrical component design, cable diagrams, evaluation, and/or construction.

Experience with providing deck-plate engineering construction support.

Skills

Fundamental engineering analysis skills and the ability to apply basic engineering principles to technical tasks.

Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and system information.

Clear written and verbal communication skills for documenting work and engaging with team members.

Ability to learn quickly, follow established processes, and seek guidance when needed.

Solid organizational habits and attention to detail in technical work and documentation.

Working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications, especially Excel, PowerPoint, Word & Access is required.

Strong problem‑solving skills and sound engineering judgment.

Ability to interpret technical information and convert it into clear, actionable decisions.

Self‑driven work habits with attention to detail and follow‑through.

Highly effective soft skills to facilitate mentorship, teamwork, and collaboration

Knowledge of COLUMBIA Class ship design and arrangement.

Knowledge of construction drawings, system diagrams, and test forms.

Physical Qualifications
Climbing, Crawling, Kneeling, Reaching, Stooping, Twisting

Environmental Attributes
Cold, Dusty, Hot, Inside, Noise, Oily, Outside, Wet