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Ships Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Arbor

Founding GenAI Engineer

New York, NY · On-site

$150K - $220K/yr

Ship full-stack features end-to-end in Python/FastAPI and TypeScript/React * Build pipelines that ... Strong engineering fundamentals and experience shipping production systems end-to-end * Hands-on ...

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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 Jul 22, 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, especially senior or chief engineers on large vessels, can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually with experience, overtime, and bonuses. High-paying engineering roles in other industries, such as petroleum, aerospace, or specialized consulting, may also reach this level, often requiring advanced skills, certifications, and leadership responsibilities.

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.

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 type of 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 engineers make $300,000 a year?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum engineering, aerospace engineering, and certain senior software engineering roles can earn $300,000 or more annually. These positions often require advanced skills, certifications, and extensive industry experience, and may involve leadership responsibilities or working in high-demand sectors.

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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $128,141 per year, or $61.6 per hour.
Marine Engineering Manager

Marine Engineering Manager

American Cruise Lines

Guilford, CT • On-site

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Marine Engineering Manager
The Marine Engineering Manager is responsible and accountable for the engineering and technical operations of a Fleet of US-Flagged cruise ships. The Marine Engineering Manager directs the maintenance, repair and regulatory compliance of all American Cruise Lines' certificated vessels. The Manager manages the critical spares inventory. The Manager leads a team of Naval Architects who are responsible for the division of vessels in a geographic area. The Manager provides immediate response for critical repairs to ensure the Fleet remains on schedule. The Manager of Engineering reports to American Cruise Lines' Vice President of Engineering.
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:
  • Accomplishes taking assigned by Vice President of Engineering.
  • Coordinates tasking with other Directors of Engineering.
  • Supervises and directs Naval Architects.
  • Provides technical leadership, guidance, and support to the Naval Architecture team.
  • Identifies and troubleshoots technical vessel problems and provides fast solutions to minimize downtime.
  • Develops, maintains, and implements standards for preventative maintenance programs.
  • Expedites vendors for critical repairs.
  • Coordinates and communicates with Marine Operations for critical repairs and determines timeline for resolution.
  • Manages warranties and coordinates extended warranties for technical equipment.
  • Ensures competitive bidding and negotiating costs.
  • Manages expenses and assists with annual winter maintenance budget.
  • Maintains ship repair logs.
  • Manages winter work list for all engineering department repairs and projects.
  • Coordinate large scale projects such as ship refits and dry-dockings.
  • Makes berthing arrangements for vessels during winter layovers.
  • Provides technical information and guidance to shipboard engineers and crew directly, or through Port Engineers.
  • Creates and curates training material for shipboard engineers.
  • Interfaces with Marine Operations and Hotel Operations.
  • Ensures vessel compliance with all USCG, USPH, FDA, EPA, and other federal regulations.
  • Schedules all required USCG inspections.
  • Manage relationships with USCG.
  • Guarantees engineering department provides preparation support and attends in person, all scheduled USCG inspections.
  • Tracks and solves all USCG issued 835 deficiencies.
  • Maintains vendor relationships and keeps electronic database of vendor contact information.
  • Manages and negotiates vendor service contracts.
  • Ensures vendors meet the obligations of said contracts.
  • Maintains EPA VGP compliance with grey/black water effluent quality reporting.
  • Negotiates large purchases for ship engineering support including critical spares.
  • Controls expenses of the engineering department through invoice auditing.
  • Approves of all engineering related expenses through accounting and credit cards.
  • Manages critical spare parts nationwide at ACL commissaries or with vendor.

Qualifications:
  • Minimum 10 years' experience in ship repair or construction.
  • B.S. in Naval Architecture, Marine Engineering, or Mechanical Engineering preferred.
  • Strong organizational skills and excellent verbal and written communication skills (English).
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
  • US Coast Guard regulated pre-employment drug test.

Attributes for Success:
  • Ability to identify, manage, and solve problems.
  • Ability to understand complex problems.
  • Ability to act with urgency to complete time sensitive tasks.
  • Consistent, accountable, confident, assertive, and committed.
  • Be detail oriented.
  • Ability to be available during evenings, weekends, & holidays to solve time sensitive problems.
  • Ability to persuade.

Work Schedule:
  • Regular travel to ships.
  • Year-round with 24/7/365 on-call hours.
  • Remote Based Position.

Why Join American Cruise Lines?
At American Cruise Lines, our people make the difference. We are proud to operate the newest and most innovative fleet in the country and are recognized as America's leading river cruise specialist. Our success is rooted in hiring talented individuals and giving them the tools, training, and support to grow and thrive. Join a team that's redefining U.S. cruise travel - and be part of a company honored with multiple industry awards and built on a strong foundation of excellence and innovation.
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.‎
*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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