Junior Naval Architect – Structures in Poole

Sunseeker was founded on a bold vision: to create a new kind of yacht and redefine what was possible on the water. From our earliest designs in 1967, we’ve pushed boundaries and reshaped the motor yacht industry through innovation, craftsmanship and relentless ambition. At the heart of every Sunseeker lies a legacy of expert hands and meticulous attention to detail, skills refined and passed down through generations. These are the qualities that set our yachts apart - and the qualities that continue to drive our craft today.

In a world increasingly defined by automation, we remain committed to building hand‑crafted, hand‑finished boats. With over 1,800 talented team members across our busy shipyards - from long‑serving specialists to more than 180 apprentices - our Sunseeker workforce reflects the strength, diversity and pride of our local community. It’s this blend of heritage, skill and passion that makes our shipyards unlike any other place in the world.

Who We Are Seeking

We are seeking a motivated and detail-focused Junior Naval Architect – Structures to join our Naval Architecture team. This role is ideal for someone at the early stage of their career who is keen to develop their technical expertise across composite structures, 3D modelling, and boat performance.

You will play a key role in supporting production and design teams, working on everything from structural modelling and moulding drawings to weight tracking and sea trials. This is a hands‑on, varied position where curiosity, accuracy, and a willingness to learn are essential. You will be supported in developing your knowledge across naval architecture disciplines, gaining valuable exposure to real‑world boatbuilding and performance testing.

A Day in the Life

In this role, no two days are the same. You may spend time developing detailed 3D models of composite structures in Siemens NX, producing production drawings for moulding suppliers, or supporting the creation of BOMs to ensure projects stay on track for cost and weight. You will regularly collaborate with production teams, visiting the yard to gather weight data and better understand how designs are realised in practice. You may also support sea trials for new boats, carrying out lightship checks, assessing structural performance, and helping resolve issues before delivery. Throughout your work, accuracy and attention to detail will be essential, ensuring all drawings and calculations meet high standards for both production and classification.

Example Responsibilities Include

• Producing 3D models of composite structures including hulls, decks, superstructures, tanks, and mouldings
• Creating production drawings for mouldings using Siemens NX and AutoCAD where required
• Modelling foam cores, stiffening, metallic reinforcements, and infusion plans for manufacture
• Supporting the creation and management of BOMs to align with budget and weight targets
• Issuing drawings through SAP and maintaining accurate drawing records
• Assisting with weight estimation and tracking boat weights during build through yard visits
• Gathering and analysing weighed weight data to support performance optimisation
• Supporting first-of-type boat trials, including conducting lightship checks and providing ballast data
• Assisting with performance assessments, structural deflection checks, and FOT documentation
• Collaborating with production teams to resolve design or build issues in a timely manner
• Supporting compliance activities such as inclining experiments and stability booklet preparation when required

To Be Considered for This Role You Should Have

• A minimum 2:2 BEng (Hons) degree in Naval Architecture (ideally with exposure to composites)
• Experience or knowledge of composite construction, preferably within a marine environment
• Strong computer literacy, including 3D CAD software (ideally Siemens NX), AutoCAD 2D, and Microsoft Excel
• Understanding or interest in boatbuilding, marine engineering, or a nautical background (desirable)
• Ability to use both 2D and 3D design tools effectively
• Awareness of different composite manufacturing processes (e.g. hand lay-up, infusion, RTM, pre-preg)
• Strong attention to detail with the ability to produce accurate, high-quality drawings and calculations
• Good communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively across design and production teams
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage tasks to tight deadlines
• A proactive mindset with a willingness to learn and continuously develop technical knowledge

Sunseeker employees benefit from

With 7 miles of golden sandy beaches, flanked on both sides by the New Forest National Park and the Jurassic Coast line, working in Poole for a genuinely premiere international brand offers an enviable opportunity to truly live the dream. All the usual benefits you would expect from a sophisticated manufacturing organisation are available, including:

• A generous company pension scheme - 6% employer contribution
• Private medical insurance, including baby bonus and Digital GP (after 2 years)
• Dental insurance (after 2 years)
• Annual leave increases with continued service
• Health Assured EAP
• Trained Mental Health First Aiders
• Employee discounts with a wide range of third party businesses (up to 30% off)