Job added on: 17 July 2026

Naval Architect – Superyachts | Relocate from Portugal to the Netherlands Lisboa

Naval Architect – Superyachts | Relocate from Portugal to the Netherlands Lisboa

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Work on the engineering of custom-built superyachts

Are you a Naval Architect or Marine Engineer based in Portugal and ready to take the next step in your international career? Xelvin is looking for a technically strong Naval Architect who wants to relocate to the Netherlands and work on high-end custom-built superyachts.

In this role, you will contribute to the technical design and engineering of complex yacht projects. You will work on the translation of design concepts, client requirements and classification rules into technically feasible, safe and buildable solutions.

This is a role for someone who understands ship design, structure, systems integration and the balance between aesthetics, performance, safety and manufacturability.

What you will do

As a Naval Architect, you will be involved in the engineering of luxury yachts from concept and basic engineering through detailed engineering and production support.

Your responsibilities may include:

  • Developing and checking technical ship design and engineering solutions.
  • Working on hull design, general arrangements, layouts and technical integration.
  • Supporting stability, weight control, structural design and construction-related calculations.
  • Translating design concepts into technically feasible and buildable solutions.
  • Preparing, reviewing and improving technical drawings, calculations and documentation.
  • Coordinating with engineering teams, production, suppliers, classification societies and project stakeholders.
  • Supporting the integration of systems, equipment, interiors and exterior elements into the overall yacht design.
  • Identifying technical risks and proposing practical solutions.
  • Ensuring that designs meet quality, safety, classification and production requirements.
  • Supporting production teams during construction and resolving technical questions.

Depending on your experience, the role can be more focused on basic engineering, detailed engineering, structural engineering, outfitting or technical coordination.

What you bring

For the Portuguese market, we are looking for candidates with a background in naval architecture, marine engineering, shipbuilding or complex mechanical engineering.

You have:

  • A technical degree such as Licenciatura or Mestrado in Naval Architecture, Marine Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Ocean Engineering, Shipbuilding or a related field.
  • Experience in shipbuilding, yacht building, marine engineering, offshore, naval design or complex technical engineering.
  • Good understanding of ship design, construction principles and technical integration.
  • Experience with 2D and/or 3D engineering software.
  • Experience with software such as AutoCAD, Rhino, Siemens NX, SolidWorks, Inventor, Maxsurf, NAPA, ShipConstructor, Cadmatic or similar tools is relevant.
  • Knowledge of stability, structures, weight control, hull design, outfitting or classification rules is a strong advantage.
  • The ability to read and interpret technical drawings, specifications and engineering documentation.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and a practical engineering mindset.
  • A precise and quality-focused way of working.
  • Good communication skills in English.
  • Motivation to relocate from Portugal to the Netherlands.

Dutch is not required. Willingness to learn Dutch over time is a plus.

What Xelvin offers you

Relocating to another country is a big step. Xelvin supports you throughout the full process, from the first interview to your first working day in the Netherlands.

We offer:

  • A full-time job with long-term perspective in the Netherlands.
  • A gross monthly salary between €3,800 and €5,800, depending on experience and technical background.
  • Relocation support from Portugal to the Netherlands.
  • Help with documentation, registration and practical relocation matters.
  • Guidance from our housing consultant in finding accommodation.
  • Paid holidays and holiday allowance.
  • Pension arrangement.
  • Training and development opportunities.
  • Personal guidance from Xelvin during the relocation process.
  • A career opportunity in one of the most respected yacht-building regions in the world.

Our client is a leading organization in the Dutch superyacht industry. The company designs, engineers and builds custom-made luxury yachts for international clients.

Every project is unique and requires close collaboration between design, engineering, production, suppliers and specialist partners. The working environment is technical, international and quality-driven, with a strong focus on craftsmanship, innovation and tailor-made solutions.

Rubin Dellink
Project Manager

+31 (0)6 82 09 25 99
r.dellink@xelvin.nl

The application process

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