Ship Engineer

Explore This Path

Ideal for those passionate about maritime technology and teamwork on the high seas.
Ensure smooth sailing by maintaining vital ship systems and machinery.
Engage in dynamic problem-solving and emergency preparedness at sea.

💰 Earn $0-$0

📚 Vocational Training

⏱️ 12–24 MONTH TRAINING

📈 3.4% JOB GROWTH

Find Training

What You’ll Do

Supervise and coordinate activities of crew engaged in operating and maintaining engines, boilers, deck machinery, and electrical, sanitary, and refrigeration equipment aboard ship.

Start engines to propel ships, and regulate engines and power transmissions to control speeds of ships, according to directions from captains or bridge computers.
Maintain or repair engines, electric motors, pumps, winches, or other mechanical or electrical equipment, or assist other crew members with maintenance or repair duties.
Perform or participate in emergency drills, as required.
Monitor engine, machinery, or equipment indicators when vessels are underway, and report abnormalities to appropriate shipboard staff.
Maintain complete records of engineering department activities, including machine operations.

Scoop

Minimum Education

Vocational Training

Career Prospects

Good (Increasing by 1-5%)

Training Time

1 to 2 years

Job Openings

1,100 Annually

Median Earnings

$94,270 Nationally

$25K

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Best For You If...

YOU Like 💕

Influencing or leading others
Using data or completing tasks
Working with my hands

You are skilled in 💫

Active Listening
Critical Thinking
Monitoring
Operation and Control
Operations Monitoring
Reading Comprehension

You value 🙏

Having support
Having freedom
Personal relationships

Deep Dive

Ship Engineer

Explore career pathways, key skills, and what each role has to offer.

Pathways to this Career

Learn about the education and training paths that can lead to this career — and what to expect from each one.

Bachelor's Degree

A bachelor's degree typically results in increased knowledge about a variety of academic subjects, specialized knowledge in a focused field of study, and is considered the foundational qualification for many careers.

🎓 College

⏱️ FINISH IN 4-5+ years

Vocational School

A vocational school typically equips students with specialized skills and practical training in specific trades or occupations, enhancing their employability and providing direct pathways to relevant careers.

🎓 Skills-Focused

⏱️ FINISH IN 6 months - 2 years