Germany Marine Principal Hull Plan Approval Engineer

Mission

The role focuses on plan approval activities, finite element (FEM) analysis, and the development of Rules & Guidelines, alongside contributing to the testing and validation of newly developed RINA software dedicated to ship structure verification.

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Key Accountabilities

• Review and approve hull structural drawings of ships, offshore units, and marine equipment, in compliance with Class Rules and Statutory Regulations, for new buildings, ships in service, and ship’s conversions. 
• Assist clients during the design and construction phase, providing guidance and support related to structural design.
• Ensure that reviews of novel aspects, falling outside the plan approval field of competence, are of thehighest quality and in compliance with applicable RINA rules, international conventions and contractual requirements.
• Contribute to the development and updating of RINA Rules and Guidelines for ship structures
• Support the development and maintenance of RINA technical software for structural assessment
• Perform plan approval and participate in research activities, with a strong focus on ship structures
• Support the Business Development team on special projects involving innovative structural designs
• Provide technical advisory services within defined parameters, including budget and contractual constraints
• Manage newbuilding and conversion projects for ship structures, ensuring alignment with project objectives
• Collaborate with engineering and construction teams to resolve design issues and conflicts

Education

Qualifications

Experience

• At least 5 years of experience in ship structure plan approval (experience with container vessels and lashing is preferred) or at least 10 years experience in shipyards/design company in the structure design department with projects reference in container ships  
• In-depth knowledge of IMO conventions, SOLAS, MARPOL, and IACS regulations related to ship structures.
• Strong background in reviewing and approving structural drawings, scantlings, and finite element analysis (FEA) reports.
• Strong ability to work in teams and meet tight deadlines
• Proven skills in conflict management and negotiation
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office tools
• Ability to follow established systems, processes, and procedures
• Fluency in English (written and spoken); German is a plus
• Excellent written communication skills, with precision and clarity

Technical Skills

• Expertise in hull structural design, including primary and secondary structures for different vessel types (tankers, bulk carriers, container ships, passenger vessels).
• Strong understanding of material properties, welding procedures, and structural reinforcements.
• Ability to assess compliance with classification rules and statutory requirements for hull strength, longitudinal strength, and buckling criteria.
• Familiarity with structural analysis software (e.g., ANSYS, Nastran, FEMAP, or classification society-specific tools).