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Automotive, Aviation, & MaritimeStable

Ship Engineer

Operational-level

Also known as: Barge Engineer, Deck Engineer, Engineer, Engineering Watch Officer

Automotive, Aviation, & MaritimeBachelor's Degree

Job Description

As a Ship Engineer, you oversee the complex systems that keep a vessel running. You'll lead a team to operate and maintain engines, boilers, and all electrical, refrigeration, and deck machinery. This demanding role requires critical thinking to solve technical problems and clear communication to ensure safety for everyone onboard. You'll often work in noisy environments and wear protective gear, making important decisions that impact the entire crew.
Marine EngineeringMaritime OperationsShip SystemsNaval ArchitectureEngineeringOperations ManagementMaintenance ManagementAutomotiveLogisticsMaritime

Skills employers are looking for in 2027

Software and technologies flagged by O*NET as Hot or In-Demand for this role.

Job Outlook 2025-2035

Projected growth

+2.7%

US average: +3.5%

Job openings

900

per year (US)

Jobs today

8,800

in 2025 → 9,000 (2035)

Typical entry education

Postsecondary nondegree award

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections; O*NET Bright Outlook. Read the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook

Work Environment

How this work is typically performed, based on O*NET work context data.

Email & digital communication
Moderate
Working in a team
High
Contact with others
High
Freedom to make decisions
High
Time pressure
High
Time spent sitting
Moderate
Working outdoors
High
Indoor, climate-controlled
Moderate
Dealing with customers
Moderate
Level of competition
Moderate

Source: O*NET Work Context (v31.0)

Future Perspective

Stable Job Market

The outlook for Ship Engineers is stable, with about 900 job openings expected each year through 2035. The field is projected to grow by 2.7%, and the median annual wage is about $109,530.

Career ladder

Often before this role

  • Junior Marine Mechanic
  • Engine Room Oiler
  • Ship Electrician

Where it can lead

  • Chief Engineer
  • Fleet Supervisor
  • Marine Technical Director

Impact of AI on this Job

AI will significantly enhance this role through predictive maintenance systems, optimizing engine performance, and automating routine monitoring tasks. While AI can improve efficiency and reduce human workload, the critical need for human oversight, complex problem-solving, and hands-on repair of vital ship systems will remain. This will likely shift the engineer's focus towards analysis and strategic decision-making.