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Entry Level Cruise Ship Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

American Cruise Lines

Captain

New London, CT · On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Rockland, ME

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Providence, RI

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Charleston, SC · On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Saint Augustine, FL

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Wilmington, NC

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Fort Lauderdale, FL · On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Providence, RI · On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Bar Harbor, ME · On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Saint Petersburg, FL · On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Norfolk, VA · On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Bangor, ME

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Petersburg, VA

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Bangor, ME · On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Saint Petersburg, FL · On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Bar Harbor, ME

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Guilford, CT · On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Brunswick, GA · On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

American Cruise Lines

Captain

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

Captain American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American ... Oversee Shipboard Engineer. * Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers. * Support ...

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All JobsCruise Ship Engineer JobsEntry Level Cruise Ship Engineer Jobs

Entry Level Cruise Ship Engineer information

See salary details

$94.5K

$130.5K

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

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level cruise ship engineer in the United States is $128,141.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $129,000.00 and $129,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level cruise ship engineers, and how can they be addressed?

Entry level cruise ship engineers often face challenges such as adapting to long periods at sea, working in a multicultural team, and responding to technical issues in a fast-paced environment. These challenges can be addressed by developing strong communication skills, being open to learning from more experienced colleagues, and maintaining a flexible and solution-oriented mindset. Taking advantage of onboard training programs and proactively seeking mentorship can also help new engineers build confidence and advance in their careers.

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

AspectEntry Level Cruise Ship EngineerEntry Level Marine Engineer
CertificationsSTCW Basic Safety Training, Engine Room CertificationsSTCW Basic Safety Training, Marine Engineering Certifications
Work EnvironmentOnboard cruise ships, confined engine rooms, passenger areasOnboard ships, engine rooms, port facilities
Industry UsagePrimarily in cruise line industryCommercial shipping, cargo, and passenger vessels

Entry Level Cruise Ship Engineers focus on maintaining and repairing ship engines in the cruise industry, often working in passenger-rich environments. Entry Level Marine Engineers have similar certifications and work in various maritime sectors, including cargo and commercial vessels. While both roles require technical skills and certifications, cruise ship engineers specialize in passenger cruise ships, whereas marine engineers may work across different vessel types.

What does an entry level cruise ship engineer do?

An entry level cruise ship engineer assists in the maintenance and operation of the ship’s mechanical and electrical systems. Their duties often include routine inspections, troubleshooting minor technical issues, and supporting senior engineers with repairs and daily checks. They help ensure the ship runs smoothly, safely, and efficiently while learning the skills needed for advancement. This role is hands-on and may involve working in shifts, including nights and weekends.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Cruise Ship Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Cruise Ship Engineer, you need foundational knowledge in marine engineering, mechanical systems, and safety procedures, often supported by a relevant degree or technical training. Familiarity with marine engine diagnostics, maintenance tools, and certifications like STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping) are typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication help you adapt to onboard challenges and collaborate with the crew. These abilities are essential to maintain ship safety, ensure efficient operations, and uphold regulatory standards at sea.
More about Entry Level Cruise Ship Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Cruise Ship Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Cruise Ship Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Cruise Ship Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Cruise Ship Engineer jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Cruise Ship Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Cruise Ship Engineer jobs are:
Entry Level Cruise Ship Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Cruise Ship Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 7% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $128,141 per year, or $61.6 per hour.
Captain

Captain

American Cruise Lines

New London, CT • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Captain
American Cruise Lines seeks experienced Captains to lead our U.S. flag fleet. American Cruise Lines cruise along inland and coastal waterways, including the East Coast, Alaska, Pacific Northwest, Great Lakes, Columbia amp; Snake Rivers, Mississippi, Tennessee, Ohio, and Cumberland Rivers. American Cruise Lines modern vessels accommodate 100 to 200 guests designed for safe navigation and exceptional service.
Captains are responsible for safe vessel operations, adherence to company and regulatory standards, and representing the company as a professional leader. American Cruise Lines Captains are master mariners with firsthand piloting experience in challenging coastal and river waterways. Captains are meticulous professionals, in service to our guests and as examples to our crews.
Captains enjoy comfortable onboard accommodations and chef prepared meals. American Cruise Lines operates our own bridge simulator, enabling rigorous recurrent training and development focused on critical decision-making and advanced piloting skills. American Cruise Lines recruits and retains the best professional mariners in the industry.
At American Cruise Lines, we are driven by our values—Optimism, Commitment, Patriotism, and Merit. These values shape our culture, our service, and our people, guiding us as we work together to Share America’s Story on the Finest American Ships.
Responsibilities:
  • Ensure safety and security of passengers, crew, and vessel.
  • Operate the vessel in compliance with company and regulatory standards.
  • Execute prudent maneuvering, docking, locking, and anchoring.
  • Conduct daily inspections of all vessel spaces.
  • Supervise, lead, and develop deck officers.
  • Oversee Shipboard Engineer.
  • Coordinates major engineering repairs with port engineers.
  • Support hotel and culinary teams in delivering five-star guest service.
  • Maintain logs, reports, and administrative records.
  • Provide visible leadership through announcements, rounds, and guest interaction.
Work Schedule:
  • Typical March through November Cruise Season: 6 weeks on / 3 weeks off or 4 weeks on / 4 weeks off. Additional work periods may be possible during winter months aboard the few vessels operating or repositioning year-round.
  • This is a full-time, exempt position.
Qualifications:
  • U.S. Coast Guard Master’s license: minimum 100T, desired 1600T or greater.
  • Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
  • Captain experience on coastal and river waterways: min 2yrs, desired 5yrs with Z-drive experience.
  • Excellent communication skills and team-building skills.
  • Pre-employment drug test and continual participation in random testing.
  • Great Lakes Captain: Route familiarization and recency in all or several areas including: St. Lawrence Seaway, Welland Canal, St. Mary's River, and U.S. port routes in Lake Ontario, Lake Erie, Lake Huron, and Lake Michigan.
  • Ability to perform the essential functions of the job with or without accommodation.
Essential Functions:
  • Ships experience forces from wind, waves, and currents, prompting them to exhibit six distinct motions known as ship motions. The six motions are surge, sway, heave, roll, pitch, and yaw. This position requires the ability to live and satisfactorily perform job duties in an environment that is subject to constant motion.
  • Ability to work around 12 hours per day.
  • Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening, and passing through a 20” diameter hatch.
  • Ability to stand for your entire shift.
  • Ability to frequently lift up to 20 lbs. and occasionally lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to frequently bend, squat and reach.
  • Ability to live and work on board a vessel for extended periods of time.
  • Ability to use stairs frequently.
Compensation and Benefits:
  • Competitive daily rate.
  • Health, dental, vision, and 401(k) with match.
  • Access to advanced simulator-based training.
  • Covered Expenses: American Cruise Lines provides travel, room and board, uniforms, and training.
Applicant Acknowledgment
By proceeding to apply for the above position, I acknowledge that I have read and understand the description of the job position for which I am applying, I agree that it accurately reflects the essential functions of the position, and I represent that I can complete the essential functions of the position.
Equal Opportunity Employer
American Cruise Lines is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants. ‎American Cruise Lines bases all employment decisions on business needs, job requirements, and individual ‎qualifications without regard to protected characteristics, including, but not limited to, race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin and citizenship, age (40 and over), disability (including perceived disability), generic information, military service, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local law. ‎This policy applies to all aspects of employment and employment decisions, including, but not limited to, ‎hiring, selection, job assignment, training, compensation, promotion, discipline, termination, and access ‎to benefits.
*Job sites across the nation.
**This job description is not intended to be a comprehensive list of the duties and responsibilities of the position and such duties and responsibilities may change without notice.

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