Design and Innovation
Career Pathway FAQ
What is an entry level role within the profession?
There are two pathways. One starting with a Junior CAD Engineer or one with a Junior Project Engineer role.
What qualifications/experience would you need for an entry level role?
For the Junior CAD role, you'd need a HND Technical/Diploma Level (3/4) and some experience of using CAD is beneficial but not essential.
For the Junior Project Engineer, you'd need a Degree in Naval Architecture or similar engineering field. Ideally someone would be M.Eng.
What are the most rewarding aspects of your profession?
Seeing the project from conception through to delivery. Being able to step on to the project you’ve designed in sea trials etc. Taking a clients vision of a vessel and working with cutting-edge technology to deliver state of the art vessels.
Responsible for meeting the clients requirements. Stability performance, weight, intricate systems functionality. Creativity due to the differing challenge of each unique project/brief.
What do you like about working for Wight Shipyard/in the shipbuilding industry?
Small yard and team but with a big reach in terms of project complexity and client operation/locations with boats being sent to locations across the world.
I like that we’ve still got a small company philosophy with everyone a team player working towards the same end goal. We utilize everyone’s skills to find solutions to problems with no real hierarchy. CEO and senior team very approachable and collaborative.
What kind of attributes do you need to have to progress?
Creative, methodical, technically minded with a practical approach to design, communicate effectively across all levels from shop floor to senior management and clients. Communicate complex information clearly to different levels of knowledge and understanding.
What would be the next step up?
From Junior Project Engineer to Project Engineer
Junior CAD to Senior CAD role
Where can you get to within your trade/profession? Is there a clear pathway, please describe?
There are different paths depending on individual aspirations however there is a clear pathway from entry level/intern/apprentice through to either a senior project engineer or detailed integration designers.
What qualifications/training can you do to progress a career within your Profession?
Chartership (chartered engineer status) which is required for the senior roles and there are many opportunities for CPD as part of this i.e. conferences, lectures etc, technical report writing, project management, job specific training, shadowing opportunities.
