FALL 2026 DESIGNER CO-OP
Location:
Newport News, Virginia, United States
Date: Jul 14, 2026
Req ID: 47840
Team: E01 ENGRG & DESIGN
Entity: Newport News Shipbuilding
US Citizenship Required for this Position: Yes
Part-Time
Shift: 1st
Relocation: No relocation assistance available
Virtual/Telework Opportunity: No - Not eligible for telework
Travel Requirements: No
Clearance Required: No - Clearance Not Required to Start
Salary Range: $37,000.00 to $51,000.00
The anticipated salary range represents the estimated base pay for this role. Final compensation will be determined based on experience, qualifications, and other job-related factors, and may vary from the posted range
**Meet HII's Newport News Shipbuilding**
With more than 25,000 employees - including third-, fourth- and even fifth-generation shipbuilders - HII's Newport News Shipbuilding (NNS) division is the largest industrial employer in Virginia. We're the sole designer, builder and refueler of U.S. Navy nuclear aircraft carriers and one of two providers of U.S. Navy nuclear submarines. Our diverse and innovative team of professionals ranges from skilled trades to project managers, engineers and software developers to solution architects, technical subject matter experts, and system users. We collaborate together at the forefront of technology, manufacturing, and integration of the most powerful and survivable naval ships in the world. Want to be part of the team? Apply today! We look forward to meeting you.
**The Role**
The Designer Co-Op position provides students with hands-on experience supporting the design, development, and production of U.S. Navy aircraft carriers and submarines. This role works alongside experienced designers, engineers, planners, and production teams to assist with creating and revising detailed technical drawings, 3D models, layouts, and shipbuilding documentation used in construction and modernization efforts.
The co-op will gain exposure to shipboard systems, modeling standards, manufacturing processes, and design software while contributing to real-world projects in a fast-paced industrial environment.
**Must Have**
**_This position requires a commitment to work up to 20 hours a week._**
**_Applicants must meet the following criteria in order to apply:_**
+ **_U.S. Citizen_**
+ **_Must be a full time student enrolled in a 2-year college/university._**
+ **_Must be pursuing an Associates in Drafting and Design or a related field._**
+ **_Cumulative GPA of 2.5 or greater._**
**_Unofficial transcripts are required when applying. Failure to upload transcripts at time of application will result in automatic disqualification._**
**Key Responsibilities**
- Assist in the development and modification of engineering drawings, schematics, and design documentation for shipbuilding programs.
- Support designers and engineers with 2D and 3D modeling activities using CAD software such as AutoCAD, Inventor, CATIA, Siemens NX, or other 2D or 3D design software.
- Review technical specifications, calculations, and design requirements to ensure compliance with company and Navy standards.
- Participate in design reviews and collaborate with cross-functional departments including engineering, planning, operations, and quality assurance.
- Conduct field verification aboard ships or within production areas to validate dimensions, equipment locations, and installation requirements.
- Assist with resolving basic design issues and supporting corrective actions during production and installation phases.
- Learn and apply shipbuilding standards, safety procedures, and regulatory requirements.
**Typical Areas of Design /Support across Submarine & Carrier Programs:**
**A Designer Co-Op may support teams in areas such as:**
- Structural Design
- Electrical Design
- Machinery/ Mechanical Design
- Pipe Design
- HVAC Design
- Hull Outfitting Design
- 3D Modeling
**Nice to Have**
+ Basic understanding of engineering drawings, blueprints, and technical documentation.
+ Familiarity with CAD software or drafting tools, or certificate/course in AutoCAD, Inventor, NX or similar 2D or 3D design software.
+ Strong computer skills /experience using computer based software including Microsoft Office applications.
+ Ability to read and interpret written instructions, drawings, processes and procedures.
+ Effective communication and teamwork skills.
+ Willingness to learn in a fast-paced industrial/manufacturing environment.
+ Strong problem-solving and organizational skills.
+ Interest in defense, shipbuilding, or large-scale engineering projects.
+ Willing and able to visit waterfront shops and be capable of accessing ships under construction
**Why HII**
We build the world's most powerful, survivable naval ships and defense technology solutions that safeguard our seas, sky, land, space and cyber. HII's diverse workfor