Marine engineering is the science of designing and building equipment that's used to navigate bodies of water and explore their depths. Common marine engineering jobs include marine engineer or marine technician, naval architect and ocean engineer. Read on to find out more about these positions.
Overview of Jobs in Marine Engineering
If you're fascinated by science and interested in boats and ocean exploration, the field of marine engineering could hold many opportunities for you. People who work in this field design and construct equipment like research submarines, oil tankers and aircraft carriers. A college degree is required for all careers in marine engineering, and many schools offer programs. According to the Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers (SNAME, www.sname.org), three main careers are available in the field of marine engineering:
- Ocean engineer
- Naval architect
- Marine engineer or marine technician
<h3 id="section---ImportantFactsAboutMarineEngineering">Important Facts About Marine Engineering</h3><p></p><table border="1"><tr><td>Median Salary (2021)</td><td>$93,370 for all marine engineers and naval architects*</td></tr>
<tr><td>Job Outlook (2021-2031) </td><td>4% for all marine engineers and naval architects*</td></tr>
<tr><td>Work Environment</td><td>Offshore and onshore offices, ships and oil rigs</td></tr>
<tr><td>Licensing</td><td>Pass exam and receive mariner's license from U.S. Coast Guard; additional licenses include 3rd Assistant license, 2nd Assistant license and 1st Assistant license</td></tr>
</table><p><i>Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i>
</p><h3 id="section---OceanEngineering">Ocean Engineering</h3><p>Ocean engineers use their knowledge of marine ecosystems, currents and geology when producing sea structures, vehicles and equipment. As a ocean engineer, you might work for an oil company or a research organization.
</p><h3 id="section---NavalArchitecture">Naval Architecture</h3><p>Naval architects are responsible for the essentials of ship design. They design the overall shape of the vessel, ensuring that it will float and remain upright in the water. According to SNAME, a naval architect might work in an office drawing designs or in a shipyard supervising construction. Some naval architects also oversee maintenance or supervise the conversion of a ship from one use to another.
</p><h3 id="section---MarineEngineeringTechnician">Marine Engineering Technician</h3><p>Marine engineers, or marine technicians, are primarily responsible for designing a vessel's onboard systems, including propulsion and steering, says the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS, <i>www.bls.gov</i>). Marine engineers may also work aboard a ship, ensuring that the systems are properly maintained.</p>
