Ship Engineers
Supervise and coordinate activities of crew engaged in operating and maintaining engines, boilers, deck machinery, and electrical, sanitary, and refrigeration equipment aboard ship.
Common Job Titles
- Engineer
- Ferry Engineer
- Port Engineer
- Tug Boat Engineer
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- Hands-onPerform repairs and maintenance on diesel engines, boilers, and propulsion systems aboard ship using hand tools, power tools, and precision measuring instruments.Advanced
- KnowledgeDevelop work schedules and maintenance plans for engine room crew balancing operational demands with preventive maintenance requirements.Advanced
- KnowledgeAssess mechanical and electrical system performance data during vessel operations to determine compliance with safety and operational standards.Proficient
- Hands-onOperate ship engines, pumps, condensers, and auxiliary machinery while monitoring gauges and control systems to maintain optimal vessel performance.Proficient
- KnowledgeAnalyze equipment malfunctions and operational irregularities using troubleshooting protocols and diagnostic tools to identify root causes.Proficient
- MindsetPrioritize crew safety, environmental protection, and regulatory compliance when coordinating maintenance schedules and emergency response procedures.Proficient
- Hands-onCoordinate inspection and testing procedures for electrical, sanitary, refrigeration, and fire suppression systems ensuring all shipboard systems meet operational and safety standards.Proficient
- KnowledgeInterpret technical manuals, engineering drawings, and maritime regulations to guide repair procedures and ensure regulatory compliance.Proficient
- KnowledgeEvaluate fuel consumption, system efficiency, and environmental discharge practices to optimize vessel performance and minimize environmental impact.Proficient
- MindsetEngage in training and mentoring subordinate engineers and crew members to build technical competence and adherence to maritime safety protocols.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Ship Engineers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
8,580
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $56,620. 25th percentile: U.S. $71,720. 50th percentile: U.S. $101,320. 75th percentile: U.S. $130,380. 90th percentile: U.S. $162,370. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $56,620 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $162,370 |
| Workers on average earn | $105,600 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Mechanical4.5/5
- English Language3.5/5
- Engineering and Technology3.5/5
- Public Safety and Security3.5/5
- Transportation3.3/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Apple macOS
- Microsoft Access
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Project
- Microsoft Word
- Oracle Database
- SAP software
- Salesforce software
Technology Skills
- Computer aided dispatch software
- Computerized maintenance management system CMMS
- Customer relationship management CRM software
- Damen DAMOS
- Electronic data interchange EDI software
- Enterprise resource planning ERP software
- Kongsberg Maritime K-LOG Electronic Logbooks
- Marine Software Marine Planned Maintenance
Tools & Equipment
- Adjustable hacksaws
- Aligning punches
- Allen wrench sets
- Aviation snips
- Ball peen hammers
- Ballast pumps
- Bell-faced claw hammers
- Bilge water pumps