Program Engineer

Austal USA is seeking a Program Engineer to lead and coordinate engineering activities for our Expeditionary Medical Ship (EMS) and Expeditionary Fast Transport (EPF) programs. In this role, you will oversee all program-related engineering functions, ensuring technical execution aligns with program objectives, schedules, and quality standards. You will collaborate closely with cross-functional teams—including design, production, and project management—to drive innovation, resolve technical issues, and deliver mission-critical vessels that meet customer and regulatory requirements.

Austal USA is recognized for its advancements in naval ship design and construction, presenting distinctive opportunities for team members to participate in influential initiatives shaping the maritime sector now and in the future. With a heritage rooted in innovation, Austal USA has been instrumental in propelling naval technology forward through sophisticated design, engineering, and delivery of Littoral Combat Ships (LCS), Expeditionary Fast Transport (EPF) to the recently awarded Offshore Patrol Cutter (OPC), Expeditionary Medical Ship (EMS), and the T-AGOS ocean surveillance vessels. What sets Austal USA apart is our commitment to innovation and our dedication to building the best ships for the United States Navy and the United States Coast Guard. We actively cultivate a culture fueled by intellectual curiosity and diverse perspectives, where every team member is integral to delivering cutting-edge solutions.

REPORTS TO:  Engineering Director with dotted line report to Program Manager

SUPERVISES:  Oversees all Program related Engineering Activities

AUTHORITIES / RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Responsible for organizing engineering team to meet program technical, schedule and cost requirements

• Responsible for technical relationships with customer and Program Office

• Is single point of technical contact on the program

•  Support the Estimating Business System initiative in response to RFP or RFQ requirements to ensure Basis of Estimates are in accordance with DFARs Cost Estimating System Requirements.

• Act as a Compliance Champion for the organization and work to promote a culture of compliance throughout the organization.

• Monitoring for changes in, and making recommendations for improvements to comply with laws, rules, regulations, and policies that govern business activities in your department or subject area.

• Assist in compliance risk assessments and risk reporting in accordance with the Company’s risk assessment program.

• Developing, providing, and documenting compliance training, as applicable.

• Compliance monitoring, surveillance, and auditing efforts, and assisting in investigations of suspected compliance violations.

QUALIFICATIONS / KNOWLEDGE / EXPERIENCE:

General:

• Successful completion of a Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering

• Minimum 10 years of shipyard design and construction experience

• Excellent written and oral communication skills

• Understanding of scheduling and an ability to adhere to strict deadlines

• Experienced in interacting with Production, multiple design teams from several companies, customer representatives and equipment manufacturers.

• Computer literate and familiar with AutoCAD and Microsoft Office products.

• Working knowledge of ship and propulsion systems

• Working knowledge of ship structures

• Working knowledge of Maritime Regulatory Authorities (i.e. ABS, DNV, GL, NAVSEA, MIL, USCG, IMO, etc.)

TOOLS:

• Computer – MS Office, AutoCAD

DIRECTION EXERCISED:

• Will coordinate the work of Engineers, Designers and Draftspersons assigned to the Program

• Will determine technical adequacy of drawings and calculations

DISCRETION EXERCISED:

• Will provide input to evaluations of Engineers, Designers and Draftspersons

• Has authority to direct, evaluate and correct the work of Engineers, Designers and Draftspersons

LIAISES WITH:  Engineers, Designers, Draftspersons, Production Personnel, Customer, Regulatory Bodies, Program Management and Equipment Suppliers

ADDITIONAL GUIDELINES:

General:

• Experience in managing large design projects

• Experienced in the construction of high speed aluminum vessels is advantageous but not a requirement

• Working knowledge of modular construction methods is advantageous but not a requirement.

• Experienced in design and construction of US Navy vessels is advantageous but not a requirement.

• Understanding of shock design is advantageous but not a requirement

• Working knowledge of FEA methods is advantageous but not a requirement.

Candidates must meet the following employment eligibility guidelines to be considered for employment with Austal USA:

• 18 years of age or older at time of application

• Able to provide proof of US Person Status

• No felony convictions of Theft/Deception or Violent crimes within seven years from disposition date

• No felony convictions of Drug crimes within three years from disposition date

• Willing to submit to a drug screen

• Willing to submit to a background check

• The ability to obtain and maintain a DoD clearance may be required if deemed necessary in the scope of your position responsibilities.

Equal Employment Commitment

Any qualified individual with a disability who is having difficulty in completing an application because of incompatible technology or other disability-related application issues may contact us at the following phone number for assistance: 251-445-1932.

Austal’s commitment to equal employment opportunity applies at all levels of employment, in all job titles, including the executive level, and to all employment actions, including but not limited to decisions concerning recruitment, hiring, training, and promotion.