FALL 2026 DESIGNER CO-OP

Location:

Newport News, Virginia, United States

Date: Jun 15, 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 Requirement: No

Clearance Required: No - Clearance Not Required to Start

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 workforce includes skilled tradespeople; artificial intelligence, machine learning (AI/ML) experts; engineers; technologists; scientists; logistics experts; and business administration professionals.

Recognized as one of America’s top large company employers, we are a values and ethics driven organization that puts people’s safety and well-being first. Regardless of your role or where you serve, at HII, you’ll find a supportive and welcoming environment, competitive benefits, and valuable educational and training programs for continual career growth at every stage of your career.

Working at HII is more than a job - it’s an opportunity to build a future. We offer comprehensive benefits including: medical, prescription drug, dental and vision plan choices, on-site health centers, tele-medicine, wellness resources, employee assistance programs, savings plan options (401K), financial education and planning tools, life insurance, tuition reimbursement, employee discounts, early childhood and post-secondary education scholarships, and more. Some benefits may vary depending on your specific division or work location.

Together we are working to ensure a future where everyone can be free and thrive.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, physical or mental disability, age, or veteran status or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law. U.S. Citizenship may be required for certain positions.

Do You Need Assistance?
If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to buildyourcareer@hii-co.com and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Reasonable accommodations are considered on a case-by-case basis. Please note that only those inquiries concerning a request for reasonable accommodation will be responded to from this e-mail address.

Additionally, you may also call 1-844-849-8463 for assistance. Press #2 for Newport News Shipbuilding.