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Entry Level Cargo Ship Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SAIC

Mechanical Engineer Associate

Lakehurst, NJ · On-site

Proactively respond to emergency calls , providing hands-on shipboard support to troubleshoot ... Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field Required Experience: * Entry Level: ...

Military Sealift Command

MECHANICAL ENGINEER

Norfolk, VA · On-site +1

$75K - $118K/yr

You will plan and perform shipboard tests and inspections for MSC ships and provide technical ... cargo systems, fuel systems, lubricating systems, communicating systems, seawater systems ...

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Entry Level Cargo Ship Engineer information

See salary details

$30K

$69.4K

$118K

How much do entry level cargo ship engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level cargo ship engineer in the United States is $69,362.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,500.00 and $78,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do engineers make on cargo ships?

Entry-level cargo ship engineers typically earn between $3,000 and $6,000 per month, depending on the shipping company, route, and experience. Salaries can increase with additional certifications, such as STCW, and as engineers gain more experience working on larger vessels or in specialized roles.

What is the difference between Entry Level Cargo Ship Engineer vs Entry Level Marine Engineer?

AspectEntry Level Cargo Ship EngineerEntry Level Marine Engineer
CertificationsSTCW Basic Safety Training, Engine Room CertificationsSTCW Basic Safety Training, Marine Engineering Certifications
Work EnvironmentCargo ships, engine rooms, maritime settingsMaritime vessels, engine rooms, ship operations
Industry UsageShipping companies, cargo transportationMaritime industry, shipping lines

Both roles involve working in engine rooms on ships, requiring similar certifications and working environments. The main difference is that a Cargo Ship Engineer specifically focuses on cargo vessels, while a Marine Engineer may work on various types of ships. Entry Level Cargo Ship Engineers typically start with similar responsibilities and certifications as Entry Level Marine Engineers, making their roles closely aligned in the maritime industry.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with advanced skills, certifications, and leadership roles. Salaries at this level often involve senior positions, bonuses, and stock options, and typically require extensive experience and expertise in their industry.

Can I work on a cargo ship with no experience?

Entry level cargo ship engineers typically need some maritime training and certifications, such as STCW certification, but prior experience is not always required. Employers often provide on-the-job training for new hires, though having basic technical skills and a willingness to learn can improve chances of employment. Physical fitness and the ability to work in a maritime environment are also important.

How to become a cargo ship engineer?

To become a cargo ship engineer, you typically need to complete a maritime engineering program or obtain a relevant degree, such as a diploma in marine engineering. Additionally, gaining practical experience through internships or cadet programs and obtaining necessary certifications like a Merchant Mariner Credential are essential steps in qualifying for the role.
More about Entry Level Cargo Ship Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Cargo Ship Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Cargo Ship Engineer jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Cargo Ship Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Cargo Ship Engineer jobs are:
Entry Level Cargo Ship Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Cargo Ship Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,362 per year, or $33.3 per hour.
Forensic Naval Architect/Marine Engineer

Forensic Naval Architect/Marine Engineer

Rimkus

Miami, FL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Join Rimkus and unlock your potential with endless opportunities for growth, learning, and making a difference!
Rimkus (www.rimkus.com) is a worldwide leader in Engineering and Technical Consulting. Rimkus experts specialize in building envelope, engineering, forensic consulting, dispute resolution, construction management services, and solutions built for the environment.
NOW IS THE TIME to join this growing and stable company! We offer our full-time employees a competitive salary, bonus opportunities and a full benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, life, disability, employer-matching 401(k), and opportunities for advancement!
Requirements
Overview
Rimkus seeks an accomplished Naval Architect, Marine Engineer, or Maritime Consultant to join our Marine Practice Group and our Fort Lauderdale District Office. We are looking for a driven marine professional who is eager to expand their expertise in technical marine investigations. The successful candidate will bring advanced technical knowledge, strong analytical skills, and a collaborative spirit, ideally with experience in a design office, shipyard, or marine regulatory environment.
Key Responsibilities
  • Perform on-site, hands-on inspections of vessels and components.
  • Provide technical and scientific support to clients involved in litigation.
  • Prepare detailed, objective expert reports that clearly document findings and withstand rigorous scrutiny.
  • Deliver testimony in depositions and trials as needed.
  • Actively participate in business development, including marine insurance and admiralty law events.

Required Experience, Education, and Certifications
  • 4 to 8 years of progressive professional experience.
  • Bachelor's degree in Naval Architecture, Marine Engineering, Ocean Engineering, or a closely related field.
  • Exposure or experience with marine insurance disputes preferred but not required.

Core Competencies
  • Technical accuracy and attention to detail.
  • Strong problem-solving and critical thinking abilities.
  • Project management and organizational skills.
  • Effective collaboration within multidisciplinary teams.
  • Ability to thrive in fast-paced, deadline-driven settings.
  • Proficiency in defining problems, collecting data, establishing facts, and drawing valid conclusions.
  • Strong interpersonal and client communication skills.
  • Familiarity with Microsoft Office and engineering/design software.
  • Ability to analyze and interpret scientific and technical reports, journals, financial documents, and legal materials.
  • Composure under pressure, including during depositions and cross-examinations.
  • Extensive experience in the use and application of U.S. and international maritime regulations and standards.
  • Experience with various vessel types including recreational vessels, yachts, sea-going commercial cargo ships, and cruise ships.
  • Experience with various vessel construction materials (Composite, Aluminum, and Steel)

Physical & Work Environment Requirements
  • Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
  • Willingness to work in shipyards, waterfront, or offshore environments as needed.
  • Ability to climb ladders, board vessels, and navigate confined spaces safely.
  • Occasional travel for inspections, shipyard visits, or sea trials.

At Rimkus, we value a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued and respected. We are committed to creating a work environment that supports and celebrates the unique perspectives and experiences of all employees. If you share our commitment to diversity and inclusivity and are excited about joining a welcoming and supportive team, we encourage you to apply for our open positions.
Rimkus is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Employer and will make all employment-related decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.
THIS JOB DESCRIPTION IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE AND DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A CONTRACT FOR EMPLOYMENT OR A GUARANTEE OF CONTINUED EMPLOYMENT.
Rimkus works with a limited number of approved recruiting partners. All agency submissions must be made through our designated submission process. Unsolicited resumes will not be recognized.
Benefits
  • Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
  • Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
  • Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
  • Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
  • Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
  • Short Term & Long Term Disability
  • Training & Development
  • Work From Home

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