There are numerous engineering jobs available on ships, depending on your skills, experience, and interests. Individuals with engineering positions can work on various vessels, including cruise ships, naval ships, or container vessels, for weeks or months at a time. If you are interested in the technical processes that enable a ship to operate correctly and enjoy working aboard for extended periods, an engineering job on a ship may be an ideal career choice.

What Are Engineering Jobs on Ships?

Professionals working in engineering roles on ships are responsible for the operation of a ship's propulsion systems, which include the propeller used for thrust and forward motion. The engineering crew also maintains the main and auxiliary engines and manages the technical operations on board ships. Handling and repairing mechanical equipment are also part of the responsibilities of these individuals. Depending on their job title, engineering employees may have duties related to a ship's electrical systems, HVAC systems, and waste disposal systems.

On many ships, the engine department offers two types of jobs for engineering personnel—engine ratings or engine officers. Engine rating positions require less experience and training than engine officer roles. Their key duties often include assisting engineers in maintaining various equipment and machines on board a ship. Some engine rating positions include motorman, fitter, oiler, plumber, or engine utility man. Becoming an engine officer involves more training, depending on the specialty you're interested in. Some positions include chief engineer, staff chief engineer, hotel services engineer, HVAC engineer, and engine cadet.

There are numerous engineering jobs available aboard different vessels. Salaries vary for these positions due to factors such as prior experience, location, your highest level of education, and whether you have additional certifications. For reference, the average salary for a chief engineering position is $63,496 per year.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for marine engineers is $95,440. Most marine engineers work full-time on a preset schedule on their designated ship. The median annual salary for water transportation workers is $75,990, according to the BLS website. The amount of time water transportation workers spend on ships depends on the type of vessel on which they work. For example, tugboat crew members generally work two to three weeks at a time, but deep-sea workers can be away for two to three months.

Here are some engineering jobs on ships along with their job descriptions:

Chief Engineer A chief engineer is responsible for the technical processes onboard a ship, including the mechanical, electrical, and engineering aspects of a vessel. They may approve designs, communicate with team members, negotiate contracts, and calculate project costs. They hold the highest position in the engine department, and it's their duty to ensure that all technical operations aboard a ship operate properly. They accomplish this by acquiring assistance from the staff chief engineer, HVAC engineer, hotel service engineer, and electrical engineer, who are all leaders in their respective departments.

Staff Engineer Supporting the Chief Engineer in the running of the engine department, the Staff Engineer supervises the day-to-day operations related to all mechanical, electrical, electronic, and environmental matters on board the ship. They actively participate in instructions and training of all engine department officers and staff.

Key Responsibilities:

• •Works closely with the Chief Engineer to ensure all maintenance is completed efficiently and thoroughly.
• •Maintains regular contact with the Hotel Director and Sanitation Officer to ensure technical compliance with international sanitation requirements.
• •Works in close cooperation with the Safety Officer to ensure the proper maintenance and outstanding mechanical conditions of all safety equipment and systems aboard the vessel.
• •Is fully responsible for the operation of the engine room and any machinery maintenance on board when deputizing for the Chief Engineer.
• •Ensures work in progress is completed in line with internal standard procedures.

Hiring Requirements:

• •Unlimited Chief Engineer License III/2 and all certificates required by STCW.
• •Minimum of 1 year of experience sailing as Staff Chief Engineer and/or Chief Engineer on large passenger vessels.
• •Bachelor’s Degree or Technical Diploma from an accredited maritime Academy or equivalent.
• •Knowledgeable with all relevant rules & regulations governing the marine industry, including but not limited to SOLAS, MARPOL, DNV-GL, USCG, USPH, ILO, MLC, STCW, etc.
• •Familiarity with AMOS Maintenance, spare part and purchasing routines.
• •Experience with classification survey arrangement.
• •Knowledge of Port State Control, internal and external audit inspections, and criteria.
• •Understanding of environmental rules pertaining to MARPOL and region-specific itinerary.
• •Proficiency in speaking, reading, and writing English clearly and distinctly.
• •Excellent computer skills, including Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook).

If you believe that this is a great career opportunity for you, don't hesitate for a second! Apply for some of the vacant engineering jobs, and rest assured, there are plenty to choose from! Good luck!