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Intern Cruise Ship Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$100 - $125/hr

The role requires an understanding of ship systems, technical engineering, and project management ... of cruise ship operations. Key areas of focus include, but are not limited to, ship technical ...

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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Intern Cruise Ship Engineer information

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How much do intern cruise ship engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for intern cruise ship engineer in the United States is $19.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $20.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an intern cruise ship engineer?

Intern Cruise Ship Engineers are entry-level engineering professionals who work on cruise ships under the supervision of licensed marine engineers. They assist with the maintenance, repair, and operation of the ship’s mechanical and electrical systems, including engines, generators, and HVAC systems. This internship provides hands-on experience in marine engineering, exposure to shipboard life, and an understanding of safety protocols at sea. Interns often rotate through various departments to gain a comprehensive view of ship operations. The role is ideal for students or recent graduates in marine engineering or related fields seeking practical experience.

What types of projects or tasks can an intern cruise ship engineer expect to work on during their internship?

As an Intern Cruise Ship Engineer, you will typically assist with routine maintenance, troubleshooting, and repairs of onboard mechanical and electrical systems. You may shadow senior engineers during inspections, participate in safety drills, and help monitor engine performance and fuel consumption. The role often involves hands-on learning and collaboration with various departments, providing exposure to areas like HVAC, propulsion, and water treatment systems. This experience helps build a strong practical foundation and offers valuable insight into the operational dynamics of a cruise ship's engineering team.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an intern cruise ship engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Intern Cruise Ship Engineer, you need a foundational understanding of marine engineering principles, mechanical systems, and a relevant engineering degree or ongoing studies. Familiarity with marine-specific software, engine diagnostics tools, and safety certifications such as STCW are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and adaptability are essential soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure safe, efficient ship operations and prepare interns for advancement in the maritime engineering field.

What is the difference between Intern Cruise Ship Engineer vs Junior Marine Engineer?

AspectIntern Cruise Ship EngineerJunior Marine Engineer
Required CredentialsEnrolled in or recently completed maritime engineering program, limited certificationsCertificate of Competency (CoC) or equivalent, some certifications may be in progress
Work EnvironmentOnboard cruise ships, assisting engineering team, learning-focusedOnboard ships, performing maintenance and operational tasks under supervision
Employer & Industry UsageCruise lines, maritime training programsShipping companies, maritime industry

The main difference is that an Intern Cruise Ship Engineer is typically a student or recent graduate gaining practical experience, while a Junior Marine Engineer is a trained professional performing operational duties onboard ships. Interns focus on learning, whereas Juniors handle more responsibilities in ship maintenance and operations.

Do cruise ships have internships?

Yes, cruise ships often offer internship programs for students and recent graduates interested in maritime engineering, hospitality, or related fields. These internships provide hands-on experience in a real ship environment and may require relevant coursework, certifications, or prior knowledge of safety procedures. Opportunities vary by cruise line and typically include training on ship systems, safety protocols, and customer service.

How to join a cruise ship as an intern cruise ship engineer?

To join as an intern cruise ship engineer, candidates typically need a background in marine engineering or a related field, along with relevant certifications such as STCW. Applications are often submitted through cruise line career portals or maritime training programs, and candidates must meet age, health, and experience requirements. Internships usually involve a combination of classroom training and onboard practical experience during scheduled voyages.
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What cities are hiring for Intern Cruise Ship Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Intern 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 states have the most Intern Cruise Ship Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Intern Cruise Ship Engineer jobs include:

Infographic showing various Intern Cruise Ship Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 15% Internship, 70% Full Time, and 15% Contract. Highlights an 62% In-person, 23% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,174 per year, or $19.3 per hour.

$4.1K - $4.5K/mo

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Oversee operations for Alaska Mountain Guides and Chilkat Guides cruise ship programs in Skagway and coordinate with the Haines office for cruise ship programming.

  • Manage guides, dock staff, and site managers, including scheduling, timesheet review, and guide appreciation activities.

  • Handle office management tasks such as ship correspondence, scheduling, dock transfers, daily summaries, waivers, petty cash, and maintaining the Outlook calendar.


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)