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Ships Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Beacon Software Inc

Forward Deployed Engineer

New York, NY · On-site

$141K/yr

We ship software, not slides. The deliverable is a running system. What You'll Do * Embed deeply ... Use the platforms our core engineering team is building, and extend them when they fall short.

SAIC

Mechanical Engineer-Crane,Indiana

Edwardsport, IN · On-site

Design and develop mechanical solutions to integrate RF Rx/Tx systems into flight systems and shipboard environments. * Engineer mounting systems for sea-based systems, ensuring system stability ...

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Ships Engineer information

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$94.5K

$130.5K

How much do ships engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for ships 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 ships engineers?

Ships engineers are responsible for operating, maintaining, and repairing the engines, machinery, and other mechanical systems on ships. They ensure that all propulsion and auxiliary systems function efficiently and safely during voyages. Ships engineers also monitor equipment, perform routine maintenance, and respond to emergencies such as mechanical failures or fires. Their work is crucial for the safe and effective operation of marine vessels.

What are some common challenges faced by a Ships Engineer while working at sea?

Ships Engineers often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting mechanical failures in unpredictable conditions, maintaining complex machinery with limited spare parts, and adapting to long periods away from shore. Effective communication with other crew members is essential, especially during emergencies or maintenance tasks. Additionally, Ships Engineers must stay up-to-date with evolving maritime regulations and technologies to ensure safe and efficient vessel operations.

What engineering jobs pay $500,000?

Ships engineers typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are more common in executive or specialized roles within the engineering field, often requiring extensive experience, advanced certifications, or leadership positions. High-paying engineering jobs in other sectors, like petroleum or aerospace engineering, can reach or exceed this level with seniority and expertise.

What does an engineer do on a ship?

A ships engineer is responsible for maintaining and repairing the ship's mechanical and electrical systems, including engines, generators, and pumps. They ensure the vessel operates safely and efficiently, often working with specialized tools and following safety protocols during their shifts. Certifications such as STCW are typically required for this role.

Is 40 too late to be an engineer?

Ships engineers can pursue their careers at age 40, as the profession values experience, technical skills, and certifications such as STCW. Age is generally not a barrier if the individual meets physical requirements and has relevant training, making it possible to start or continue in the field at that age.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Ships Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Ships Engineer, you need a strong background in marine engineering, mechanical systems, and problem-solving, usually supported by a relevant degree and STCW certification. Familiarity with engine room automation systems, diagnostic tools, and maintenance management software is typically required. Strong teamwork, adaptability, and communication skills help engineers collaborate effectively and respond to emergencies at sea. These abilities ensure vessel safety, regulatory compliance, and optimal ship operation in challenging maritime environments.

How much do engineers on ships make?

Ship engineers, also known as marine engineers, typically earn between $60,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, rank, and the size of the vessel. Entry-level engineers may start at lower salaries, while senior engineers or chief engineers can earn higher wages, often supplemented by overtime and benefits. Certifications such as STCW and experience with ship systems influence earning potential.

What is the difference between Ships Engineer vs Marine Engineer?

AspectShips EngineerMarine Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, STCW certification, marine engineering licensesEngineering degree, STCW certification, marine engineering licenses
Work EnvironmentOnboard ships, shipyards, marine maintenance facilitiesOnboard ships, shipyards, marine repair shops
Industry UsageShipping companies, cruise lines, naval vesselsShipping industry, naval services, marine equipment manufacturers
Job FocusMaintaining and repairing ship machinery, engines, and systemsDesign, installation, and maintenance of marine machinery and systems

Both Ships Engineers and Marine Engineers work in the maritime industry, focusing on ship machinery. Ships Engineers typically handle maintenance and repairs onboard ships, ensuring operational safety. Marine Engineers may also be involved in design and installation of marine systems. While their roles overlap, Ships Engineers are more hands-on with daily ship operations, whereas Marine Engineers may have broader responsibilities including design and project management.

More about Ships Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Ships Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Ships Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Ships Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Ships Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Ships Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Ships Engineer jobs are:
Ships Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ships Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $128,141 per year, or $61.6 per hour.
Marine Transportation Specialist (Ship Inspector)

Marine Transportation Specialist (Ship Inspector)

Department of Transportation

Massena, NY

$89K/yr

Other

Posted 10 days ago

California Conservation Corps rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

409th of 663 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

This position is located in the Office of Lock Operations, the Ship Inspector serves as a marine expert in requirements for vessels transiting the Seaway such as investigations of marine incidents/accidents, reviewing salvage methods, and verifying marine engineering issues. 

*PLEASE NOTE: Given our continuing need for top professionals in this field, we will review applications after the first 30 days of the vacancy opening. Then after, applications will be reviewed on an as needed basis. 

Qualifications:

To meet the minimum qualifications for this position, you must meet the specialized experience requirements for the grade at which you are requesting consideration.
To qualify for the GS-12, you must have at least one year of experience equal or equivalent to the GS-11, it must include:

  • Technical experience conducting marine regulatory reviews, inspections, surveys, audits, vetting, clearances, or incident investigations of ship structures, control systems, propulsion systems, safety systems, or machinery as a marine surveyor, inspector, engineer, auditor, advisor; shipboard engineer officer, deck (navigational) officer, or similar in the public or private sector.


To qualify for the GS-13, you must have at least one year of experience equal or equivalent to the GS-12, it must include:

  • Technical experience conducting marine regulatory reviews, inspections, surveys, audits, vetting, clearances, and incident investigations of ship structures, control systems, propulsion systems, safety systems, or machinery as a senior level marine surveyor, inspector, engineer, auditor, advisor; senior shipboard captain, senior shipboard engineer, senior deck (navigational) officer, or similar. 


KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs): Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the following areas:

  • Technical Competence - Uses knowledge that is acquired through formal training or extensive on-the-job experience to perform one's job.
  • Leadership - Influences, motivates, and challenges others; adapts leadership styles to a variety of situations.
  • Self-Management - Sets well-defined and realistic personal goals; displays a high level of initiative, effort, and commitment towards completing assignments in a timely manner; works with minimal supervision; is motivated to achieve; demonstrates responsible behavior.
  • Teamwork - Encourages and facilitates cooperation, pride, trust, and group identity; fosters commitment and team spirit; works with others to achieve goals.


Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
For additional information about applying to Federal positions, please click on the following link:  https://www.opm.gov/frequently-asked-questions/employment-faq/federal-hiring/how-do-i-apply-for-federal-jobs/
All applicants must meet all qualification requirements by the closing date of this announcement.

Education:

Undergraduate and Graduate Education: Major study - accounting, business administration, business or commercial law, commerce, economics, engineering, finance, industrial management, statistics, traffic management, transportation, motor mechanics, nautical science, marine affairs, marine engineering, marine transportation, or other fields related to the position. For Marine Transportation Specialist positions, education obtained in a Federal, State, or other accredited Merchant Marine Academy is qualifying.

Employment Type: OTHER

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