What Does A Marine Architect Do?

Marine architect, synonymous with Naval architect, is in great demand in Australia as Engineers Australia (the assessing body) requires professional naval architects for Australia’s large defence and commercial maritime industries. Australia has a substantial long-term commitment to enhancing its naval capabilities, including the design, construction, and sustainment of new frigates and submarines. These intricate projects require a specialised workforce of maritime architects to ensure that vessels meet rigorous safety and performance standards. Naval architects are typically responsible for designing, constructing, repairing and maintaining several vessels and structures.  

Moreover, naval architects (ANZSCO 233916) supervise a broad range of activities throughout a project lifecycle, from initial work to delivery and operations. The duties and responsibilities of marine architects may differ depending on the role and organisation they work for. However, some of the significant and common job duties they undertake are listed below:

  • Designing and developing the overall layout and structure of marine vessels using computer-aided design (CAD) software and advanced simulation tools. This includes analysing stability, manoeuvrability, and performance under various environmental conditions, such as waves and wind.
  • Working closely with marine engineers to integrate all internal systems, such as propulsion (engines, propellers), electrical power, steering, and piping, ensuring all systems work together efficiently.
  • Collaborating with shipbuilders and contractors to oversee the construction process, ensuring that the vessel is built in accordance with design specifications, within budget, and on schedule.
  • Designing and looking after the testing of prototypes and completed vessels during dock and sea trials to evaluate performance and ensure compliance with standards.
  • Ensuring that all designs adhere to national and international safety standards and regulations set by government agencies and classification societies.
  • Persistently working to upgrade and maintain Australia’s existing commercial and naval fleets to improve efficiency, safety, and compliance with modern environmental regulations.

Marine architects are usually do  variety of projects, including:

  • Commercial cargo ships, tankers, and passenger cruise liners
  • Military vessels such as warships and submarines
  • High-speed craft, ferries, and recreational boats (yachts, powerboats)
  • Coastal facilities such as ports and seawalls
  • Offshore structures like oil and gas platforms, floating wind turbines, and other marine energy systems

In summary, marine architects can work in a variety of settings, including shipyards, design firms, commercial vessels, offshore structures, government agencies, and research institutions. They may undertake several tasks at once, handling different stages of the design and construction process simultaneously. Hence, a marine architect must be able to multitask and manage their time and resources effectively and efficiently. As they collaborate with professionals, they must also be excellent communicators, with strong interpersonal skills, as well as problem-solving abilities and close attention to detail.

How To Get A Marine Architect Job in Australia?

To do naval architectural jobs in Australia, aspiring candidates need to have their skills assessed by Engineers Australia. To have a positive skills assessment, they need to meet the criteria. The eligibility criteria for candidates with non-accredited Australian qualifications are to go through the CDR assessment pathway for migration skills assessment. A competency demonstration report (CDR) is a key to demonstrating one’s knowledge, expertise, and experience in the nominated occupation, ANZSCO 233916 – Naval architect. A successful assessment outcome enables candidates to get the nominated ANZSCO occupation in Australia.

CDRAustralia.Org offers a complete CDR writing service for Engineers Australia to help aspiring naval architects secure their skilled immigration to Australia. With dedicated effort and a commitment to client satisfaction, our professionals offer personalised solutions tailored to individual needs. As a leader in the industry, we enable our service users to craft an excellent report that highlights their unique talent and experience for the occupation. Whether candidates need assistance with career episodes, summary statements, or CPD framing, they can seek relevant experts to address their problems.  Experts ensure every aspect of a CDR flows well with the crafted narratives and impress the assessor for a positive skills assessment.