Naval Architecture has always been a technically demanding and highly specialised field. But in 2025, it’s not just the vessels evolving, it is the workforce too.
Our latest Naval Architecture Employment Report 2025 reveals a profession at a tipping point. While demand for skilled professionals remains high, job-seeking intentions are climbing, particularly among early-career Naval Architects. Retaining top talent is becoming just as challenging as attracting it.
Key Takeaways
64% of naval architects intend to change jobs in 2025, but only 20% of those planning to move in 2024 actually did—highlighting a gap between intention and action.
Flexible working and transparency now lead talent‑retention priorities: 77% say work‑life balance is more important than salary, and 98% want pay and benefits clearly stated in job ads.
Experience matters for retention: senior naval architects show stronger loyalty, whereas early‑career professionals are far more restless—posing risks for succession pipelines.
Here’s what stood out in the Naval Architecture Employment Report this year:
64% of Naval Architects plan to look for a new job in 2025
But only 20% of those who intended to move in 2024 actually did, suggesting a disconnect between motivation and action, possibly caused by burnout, poor onboarding, or unmet expectations.
Retention is stronger at the top, but juniors are restless
Experienced Naval Architects show more loyalty, while early-career professionals are the most likely to job hunt. The real risk? A revolving-door workforce and weakened succession pipelines.
Flexibility now outweighs salary for many
A striking 77% said work-life balance is more important than pay. Hybrid working is the most preferred and most common setup. Flexibility is no longer a perk; it is an expectation.
Salary transparency is a must
98% of professionals want pay and benefits clearly outlined in job ads. In a competitive market, vagueness could cost you top candidates.
Career development and challenge keep people loyal
Naval Architects stay where they feel challenged. Intellectual stimulation and alignment with company values now rank higher than money alone.
