Design Engineer

Description

Freeman Boatworks is seeking a Design Engineer with direct marine vessel design experience to support the development of our high-performance composite catamarans. This role is responsible for designing, engineering, and refining boat structures and components that move efficiently from concept into production.

The ideal candidate has a background in marine design and engineering, or hands-on boat design, and understands how designs translate to real-world boat building in a production environment. This is a highly collaborative, hands-on role where engineering decisions directly impact build quality, performance, and manufacturability.

What You’ll Do

Conceptual Design

• •Contribute to the conceptual design of a boats composite large parts, small parts and structural components for production boats
• •Develop and refine layouts and structural concepts that consider performance, strength, weight, and manufacturability

Engineering Development

• •Create detailed 3D models, assemblies, and 2D / 3D layout drawings using CAD software (Rhino 3D)
• •Maintain accurate and production-ready engineering documentation
• •Create and document revisions of core & fiberglass kits, including CNC programming using CAM software (Rhino Cam) and updating build schematics
• •Creation of 3D printed parts to be used in production as jigs, fixtures or finished parts
• •Mold design – work closely with our in-house tooling department & outside composite tooling companies

Structural Analysis & Optimization

• •Evaluate structural performance under operational loading conditions
• •Identify and implement design improvements to enhance durability, stiffness, and overall boat performance

Materials & Construction

• •Select appropriate composite materials, cores, and laminates based on performance, durability, and cost considerations
• •Design with a strong understanding of composite boat-building methods and production constraints

Prototyping & Production Support

• •Support prototype builds, first articles, and ongoing production
• •Collaborate closely with manufacturing teams to resolve design and build challenges

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• •Work with manufacturing, procurement, quality, and leadership to ensure smooth integration of design into production
• •Incorporate feedback from the shop floor into continuous design improvements

What We’re Looking For

• •Experience in Naval Architecture, Yacht Design, or a closely related marine-focused discipline
• •Demonstrated experience in Design Engineering within the marine industry
• •Strong understanding of composite boat construction
• •Proficiency in CAD / CAM software such as SolidWorks, Rhino 3D, Rhino Cam or similar platforms
• •Proven experience taking boat designs from concept through production
• •Strong problem-solving skills with a high level of attention to detail
• •Ability to work effectively in a hands-on, fast-paced production environment

What We Offer

• •Competitive compensation
• •Comprehensive benefits: medical, dental, vision, company-paid life & disability + more!
• •401(k) with company match
• •Paid time off and holidays
• •A collaborative, people-focused workplace built on craftsmanship and innovation

Please note: Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check and drug screening.