Assistant Hull Test Engineer

Job Description

The Assistant Hull Test Engineer is a mid-level technical role responsible for supporting test and activation operations on assigned hulls. Operating under the BIW Business Operating System (BOS), this position assists the Hull Test Manager in overseeing testing operations, ensures compliance with safety, quality, and performance standards, and works closely with hull management to achieve production goals.

Key Responsibilities:

Safety Leadership:

• Maintain a culture of strict compliance with test, quality, and safety procedures
• Ensure all Test and Trials activities are conducted safely according to approved procedures
• Support a safe, clean working environment during construction and test processes
• Implement safety standards and protocols for testing operations

Project Execution:

• Assist in managing all Test and Activation operations on assigned hulls
• Coordinate daily/weekly execution of ship's test and activation plan/schedule
• Lead development of coordinated trade Plans of the Week
• Serve as acting Hull Test Manager in their absence
• Participate in and direct dock trials and sea trial activities
• Ensure final products meet all QA requirements with proper documentation

Operational Management:

• Drive cost performance improvement through improved coordination of activities
• Facilitate resolution of production and pre-production barriers
• Ensure efficient shift-to-shift handoffs with proper turnover documentation
• Support test readiness for milestone events on assigned hulls
• Monitor test performance metrics and implement corrective actions

Team Collaboration and Communication:

• Work closely with Hull Manager to coordinate test and construction activities
• Collaborate with counterparts in other BIW departments for problem-solving
• Maintain positive relationships with customers (Supship Bath, Ships Force, QC)
• Ensure close integration with the assigned hull's management team
• Promote teamwork while adhering to union agreements

Continuous Improvement:

• Identify, develop, and implement cost and schedule reduction initiatives
• Support process improvement initiatives for test efficiency
• Develop solutions that enable schedule recovery and shifting milestones to the left

Required/Preferred Education/Training

• BS degree in related technical field or 7 years of relevant experience in Marine Manufacturing, Merchant Marine operations, or U.S. Navy operations and leadership
• USCG Engineer license preferred
• USCG Chief Engineer License with Gas Turbine endorsement strongly preferred

Required/Preferred Experience

• Minimum 7 years of relevant Marine Engineering experience (Navy, Coast Guard, Merchant Marine and/or Shipbuilding)
• Minimum 3-5 years supervisory experience required
• Shipyard test and activation experience preferred
• Merchant Marine operational experience preferred
• USN Gas Turbine qualifications and operational experience preferred
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, Intranet and data systems
• Strong problem resolution and root cause identification skills
• Ability to lead test and activation teams in both in-yard and at-sea environments
• Experience working with multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Demonstrated ability to maintain positive customer relationships
• Strong technical communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently on complex systems and issues
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