Similar careers
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
A Naval Architect is a specialized engineer responsible for the design, construction, and maintenance of marine vessels and structures, such as ships, boats, submarines, and offshore platforms. They combine knowledge of marine engineering, architecture, and nautical science to create efficient and seaworthy vessels.
Education: Bachelor's degree
Years in related career: None
On-the-job training: None
Projected Growth: 0.7% (below average)
Annual job openings: 600
Direct AI exposure: 26% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 54% of tasks
| According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, average income (in USD) in 2025 was $112K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $83K per year | $99K per year | $112K per year | $138K per year | $173K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $61K above the national average. | ||||
Naval Architects work in a variety of settings including shipyards, maritime engineering firms, naval bases, and design offices. Their role may involve site visits, field testing, and overseeing construction processes. The work often requires collaboration with marine engineers, designers, and clients.
Naval Architects are at the forefront of maritime technology and innovation. They blend principles of engineering and design to create vessels that are safe, efficient, and fit for their intended purpose. Their work spans across the entire process of vessel creation, from initial design concepts to final construction and testing. This can include developing blueprints, selecting materials, and determining propulsion systems.
The role requires a strong foundation in engineering principles, particularly fluid dynamics, materials science, and structural analysis. Naval Architects must be detail-oriented, creative, and have strong problem-solving skills. They should also possess good communication skills as they often work in multidisciplinary teams and need to explain complex technical concepts to non-specialists.
Naval Architecture offers a unique blend of creativity and engineering, providing the opportunity to work on a variety of projects from small boats to massive ocean liners and specialized marine structures. This career is ideal for those who have a passion for the maritime world and engineering and enjoy tackling large-scale, complex challenges.
Typically, a bachelor's degree in naval architecture, marine engineering, or a related field is required, taking about 4 years of post-secondary education. Some positions might require advanced degrees or additional certifications.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
