Ship Superintendent

Ship Superintendent

Full-Time • Shipyard Operations

Overview

The Ship Superintendent is responsible for overseeing all shipyard activities related to vessel construction, outfitting, and commissioning from project award through final delivery. This role serves as the on-site leader, ensuring work is executed safely, efficiently, and in compliance with all regulatory and quality standards.

This position plays a critical role in coordinating production, subcontractors, engineering, and ownership representatives on complex marine projects, including advanced vessel builds such as hybrid and next-generation ferries. The ideal candidate brings strong shipyard experience, leadership capability, and the ability to drive projects from steel to sea trials.

Essential Job Functions

• Serve as the on-site lead for vessel construction, repair, and commissioning activities

• Oversee daily shipyard operations, including labor, subcontractors, and vendor coordination

• Drive project execution to meet schedule, budget, and quality expectations

• Coordinate closely with engineering, project management, and production teams

• Ensure all work aligns with shipyard best practices and constructability requirements

• Monitor progress and proactively address delays, conflicts, and technical challenges

• Interface with owners, inspectors, and regulatory bodies (ABS, USCG, etc.)

• Support installation, testing, and commissioning of vessel systems, including electrical and mechanical equipment

• Ensure compliance with safety standards and enforce shipyard safety protocols

• Participate in planning, sequencing, and resource allocation for vessel builds

• Review drawings and specifications to ensure alignment with field execution

• Provide leadership and direction to supervisors, trades, and field personnel

Qualifications / Education / Experience

• Minimum 10+ years of progressive shipyard experience, including new construction, repair, and commissioning

• Proven experience in a Ship Superintendent or similar leadership role within a shipyard environment

• Strong understanding of vessel construction processes, sequencing, and shipyard operations

• Experience coordinating across multiple disciplines including structural, mechanical, piping, and electrical systems

• Working knowledge of marine electrical systems and integrated vessel systems preferred

• Familiarity with classification society and regulatory requirements (ABS, USCG, etc.)

• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and schedules

• Strong leadership, communication, and decision-making skills

• Experience working directly with owners, subcontractors, and third-party inspectors

Preferred Background

• Experience with complex vessel builds (e.g., ferries, hybrid propulsion systems, or specialized vessels)

• Background in high-spec or government-funded marine programs

• Familiarity with commissioning processes and sea trial support

• Technical background in marine engineering or related discipline

Work Environment

This role is based in an active shipyard and requires daily presence in production areas, onboard vessels, and outdoor environments. The position involves walking, climbing, and working around heavy equipment and ongoing construction activities.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience

• Full benefits package including health, dental, and retirement

• Long-term opportunity with a growing shipyard focused on advanced vessel construction