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Hourly Cruise Ship Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

American Cruise Lines

Marine Engineer

Guilford, CT

Marine Engineer The Marine Engineer is responsible and accountable for the engineering and technical operations of a Fleet of US-Flagged cruise ships. The Marine Engineer directs the maintenance ...

American Cruise Lines

Marine Engineer

Norfolk, VA

Marine Engineer The Marine Engineer is responsible and accountable for the engineering and technical operations of a Fleet of US-Flagged cruise ships. The Marine Engineer directs the maintenance ...

Princess Cruises

APM Audio

New York, NY · On-site

Willingness to live and work onboard a cruise ship for extended periods (typically 6 months). * Degree or diploma in Audio Engineering, Technical Theater, or a related field preferred; manufacturer ...

Princess Cruises

APM Audio

New York, NY

Willingness to live and work onboard a cruise ship for extended periods (typically 6 months). * Degree or diploma in Audio Engineering, Technical Theater, or a related field preferred; manufacturer ...

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Hourly Cruise Ship Engineer information

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$94.5K

$130.5K

How much do hourly cruise ship engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for hourly 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 does an hourly cruise ship engineer do?

An hourly cruise ship engineer is responsible for maintaining and operating the mechanical and electrical systems aboard a cruise ship. Their duties include monitoring engines, generators, and safety equipment, performing routine inspections, and troubleshooting technical issues as they arise. They work under the supervision of senior engineering officers and play a crucial role in ensuring the smooth and safe operation of the vessel. Working hourly means their shifts and pay are structured based on hours worked, which can involve nights, weekends, and extended periods at sea.

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

Hourly cruise ship engineers often face challenges such as adapting to rapidly changing maintenance needs, working long shifts in a confined environment, and coordinating with diverse technical teams. Effective communication and time management are crucial, as unexpected technical issues may arise that require prompt attention. Building strong teamwork skills and staying current with safety protocols can help engineers navigate these challenges and contribute to the smooth operation of the ship.

How much do cruise ship engineers make?

Cruise ship engineers typically earn between $3,000 and $8,000 per month, depending on experience, certifications, and the cruise line. Salaries can vary based on the size of the vessel, the engineer's rank, and the duration of contracts, which often include benefits and accommodations onboard.

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

To thrive as an Hourly Cruise Ship Engineer, you need a solid background in marine engineering, mechanical systems, and safety procedures, often supported by technical certifications or maritime credentials. Familiarity with shipboard systems, maintenance management software, and compliance with international maritime regulations is essential. Strong problem-solving skills, teamwork, and attention to detail are vital soft skills for handling emergencies and routine maintenance efficiently. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensure the safety, reliability, and smooth operation of the vessel throughout its voyages.

What is the hourly rate on a cruise ship?

Hourly cruise ship engineers typically earn between $20 and $40 per hour, depending on experience, certifications, and the cruise line. Salaries can vary based on the engineer's rank, such as junior or senior engineer, and the ship's size and itinerary.

What is the difference between Hourly Cruise Ship Engineer vs Marine Technician?

AspectHourly Cruise Ship EngineerMarine Technician
CredentialsSTCW certification, maritime engineering licenseSTCW certification, marine technology training
Work EnvironmentOnboard cruise ships, engine roomsShipyards, onboard ships, repair facilities
Employer & IndustryCruise lines, maritime industryShipbuilders, maintenance companies

Hourly Cruise Ship Engineers and Marine Technicians both require maritime certifications and work in ship environments. Engineers focus on engine operation and maintenance onboard cruise ships, while Marine Technicians often handle repairs and diagnostics in various maritime settings. Both roles are essential in the maritime industry, but Engineers typically have more responsibility for engine systems during voyages.

What's the easiest job to get on a cruise ship?

Entry-level positions such as housekeeping or food service staff are generally the easiest cruise ship jobs to obtain, as they often require minimal prior experience and are in high demand. These roles typically involve basic skills, a positive attitude, and the ability to work in a team environment, with some positions requiring specific certifications like food safety training.

How much do engineers make on Royal Caribbean?

Hourly cruise ship engineers on Royal Caribbean typically earn between $25 and $50 per hour, depending on experience, certifications, and specific responsibilities. Salaries can vary based on the ship, location, and union agreements, with many engineers working long shifts onboard for extended periods.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Cruise Ship Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Cruise Ship Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Hourly Cruise Ship Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Hourly Cruise Ship Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Hourly Cruise Ship Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Hourly Cruise Ship Engineer jobs are:
Hourly Cruise Ship Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hourly 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.

Cruise Operations Manager

Alaska Mountain Guides & Climbing School Inc.

Skagway, AK • On-site

$4.1K - $4.5K/mo

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Cruise Operations Manager
Salary: $4100- $4500 monthly DOE
Timeframe: Full time, expected 40-50 hours/week
Location: Present in Skagway, Alaska to prepare for season set-up through completion of shutdown. Typically, this occurs between mid-March through mid-October. Remote work possible outside of these months.
Winter role vs. summer role varies considerably in terms of time, projects, and general business of the Haines office.
Overview:
Alaska Mountain Guides operates a variety of tours for guests visiting Southeast Alaska. Our primary clientele involves cruise ships, though independent travelers are also welcome. The main responsibility of the Haines Cruise Operations Manager is to oversee each of the tour sites and their corresponding site managers as well as assist in a variety of day-to-day operations of the company through a combination of field and office work.
Job Qualifications:
  • Must be 21 years old
  • Prior experience in cruise industry/tourism is preferred
  • Excellent organizational and management skills
  • Strong computer and database skills (Microsoft Excel and Word, Adobe, etc)
  • Some experience in the outdoors is preferred.

Reporting:
  • Report directly to the Skagway program manager. Help facilitate generation of Skagway weekly reports to Skagway Program manager and owners.

General Duties:
  • Responsible for oversight of operations for Alaska Mountain Guides and Chilkat Guides cruise ship programs in Skagway.
  • Coordinate with Haines office for Cruise ship programming
  • Help support long trip operations based out of Skagway

Guide Management:
  • Shared management of guides, dock staff and site managers
  • Time sheets and payroll - manage overall guide hours and overtime
    • Timesheet review prior to each payroll
  • Oversee overall scheduling
  • Coordinate with site specific managers to help facilitate weekly guide meetings
  • Guide appreciation; organize dinners and activities, etc.

Office Management & Office Tasks:
  • Ship correspondence - email and telephone
  • Scheduling - manage overall scheduling with office staff.
  • Dock repping and settlement - as needed - shared with office and dock managers
  • Shared management of Dock Manager - Organize and manage dock transfers - work closely with Dock Manager to ensure that Dock transfers happen appropriately.
  • Active presence at site and on pier
  • Daily Summaries - emailed to all ships at the end of the day
  • Waivers and guide paperwork - Organize and verify completion throughout day and at end
  • Manage Skagway Office Petty Cash in coordination with Skagway Program manager
  • Organize weekly office meetings
  • Ship Settlement and Sending Settlement Sheets & Dock transfers
  • Maintain Outlook Skagway Calendar
  • Learn database and scheduling software and coordinate database efforts within the Skagway office and between the Haines Office.
  • Help structure and build allocations and proposals for each season working closely with Skagway and Haines program managers.
  • Manage adjustments to allocations and space requests with the cruise lines on an ongoing basis.

Marketing:
  • This would primarily be the Marketing Manager's role, however, the Operations Manager may play a part in these marketing efforts. This may include Familiarization (FAM) trips with Shore Excursion staff, presence and enthusiasm at the dock, or other lateral marketing efforts.
  • Be a part of, and support, early season FAM trips.

Skagway Infrastructure :
  • Houses - make notes in weekly report of repairs needed.
  • Coordinate with maintenance staff to prioritize repairs.
  • Coordinate employees and house "moms" to ensure that properties are adequately taken care of.

Program Site Management:
  • Shared management with Site Specific Managers
  • Site specific managers manage specific programs/locations, and are key assets in ability to manage operations.
  • Rock/Zip site managers, Canoe program manager, Hike & Float Manager, Dock Manager, and "new program" manager
  • Make sure they are providing regular reports, and have what they need.
  • Delegate specific tasks appropriately for efficient management.

Guide and Drive as needed
Other duties as dictated by daily needs
Support of new projects and initiatives as needed
Winter Season
  • Primary functions include but not limited to:
    • Hiring for summer season
    • Creation and management of cruise allocations
    • Expedition sales (see above)
    • Helping all departments as needed
  • Remote work possible in winter
    • Remote work is a privilege based on performance and is not guaranteed
  • Must be present in Skagway office a minimum of two weeks prior to first guide arrivals in Skagway and through season shut-down (typically mid-March through mid-October)

Apply