Yacht Design Engineer (Mechanical Systems)

Job summary

Tasks: Develop and maintain detailed 3D engineering models and technical documentation for onboard mechanical systems, ensuring proper integration within the yacht and alignment with production requirements.

Projects: Custom and semi-custom luxury yachts in the 60-70 metre range, mainly steel-built.

Company: Leading Dutch yacht builder with integrated engineering and shipyard facilities.

Main requirements: Yachtbuilding engineering experience, CATIA skills (Siemens NX as a highly relevant alternative), and a solid understanding of marine systems and installation in shipbuilding environments.

Your opportunity

As a Yacht Design Engineer (Mechanical Systems), you will play a key role in translating system concepts into detailed engineering output that can be built and installed onboard. You will work on a wide range of onboard systems, contributing directly to technically demanding projects in the 60-70 metre segment.

Your scope will include systems such as

• Generator and main engine exhaust systems • Fresh water, fuel, and drainage systems • Sea water cooling systems • Ventilation and air conditioning systems • Compressed air systems • Bilge, fire-fighting, black and grey water systems

This is a role for someone who understands how marine systems are integrated within the vessel and can work confidently in a 3D parametric design environment. CATIA is the main platform used.

You will work closely with engineering colleagues and production teams, ensuring that system layouts are practical, clash-free, and aligned with installation constraints. A key part of the role is finding and defining space for components in complex areas such as the engine room, ensuring systems can be installed, accessed, and maintained efficiently.

Because all major build phases are handled in-house, you will have direct exposure to the full construction process and see how your work translates into the actual yacht.

It is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys technically complex systems, multidisciplinary coordination, and contributing to high-end yacht projects.

What you will do

• Develop and maintain detailed 3D engineering models and technical drawings for onboard mechanical systems• Translate system designs into accurate, construction-ready engineering documentation• Work in CATIA to create parametric models that support efficient manufacturing and installation• Design and integrate systems such as cooling, fuel, exhaust, ventilation, and water systems• Ensure correct routing, positioning, and accessibility of components within constrained spaces (e.g. engine room)• Ensure compliance with shipbuilding standards, class requirements, and internal quality standards• Collaborate closely with production and other engineering disciplines to resolve clashes and improve buildability• Contribute to efficient installation by delivering clear, practical, and coordinated engineering output• Work across multiple systems rather than focusing on a single discipline

Where you will work

Would you like to work in a high-end yachtbuilding environment where engineering and production are closely connected? This opportunity places you in a technically strong shipbuilding team working on luxury yachts built to extremely high standards.

You will be part of a shipbuilding engineering environment where customisation, technical quality, and collaboration are central. The team works closely with the shipyard, which means your designs are not created in isolation but directly linked to the build process.

• High-end custom and semi-custom yacht projects• Strong integration between engineering and shipyard operations• Focus on practical, buildable technical solutions• International and collaborative team environment• Excellent exposure to the full yacht construction process

What you already have

• BSc degree in Mechanical Engineering, Naval Architecture, Maritime Technology, or another relevant technical discipline• 3+ years of experience in yachtbuilding or shipbuilding mechanical/system design• Experience with CATIA for 3D parametric modelling is preferred. Siemens NX is a strong alternative• Solid understanding of marine systems (piping, ventilation, cooling, fuel, exhaust, etc.) and installation practices• Experience in construction design within the shipbuilding sector• Ability to work across multiple systems and coordinate interfaces within the vessel• Good command of English, both written and spoken

Your benefits

• More time to enjoy life: 40 paid holidays every year. • Extra support for sustainable living: Sustainable Life & Work Bonus. • Business travel covered: Insurance included whenever you travel for work. • We pay the journey: Interview and commuting costs are reimbursed. • Expand your network: Meet professionals from across the Dutch maritime industry at exclusive events. • Moving to the Netherlands? We'll help you find housing and complete your registration.