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Trainee Marine Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$17.25 - $23.50/hr

MARINE PAINTER TRAINEE OR CERTIFICATION - FOR 2026 HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS OR GRADUATES - SIGN-ON BONUS ... engineers and software developers to solution architects, technical subject matter experts, and ...

$17.25 - $23.50/hr

MARINE PAINTER TRAINEE OR CERTIFICATION - FOR 2026 HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS OR GRADUATES - SIGN-ON BONUS ... engineers and software developers to solution architects, technical subject matter experts, and ...

RESEARCH FELLOW

Ann Arbor, MI · On-site

$62K - $64K/yr

Curriculum Vitae Who We Are The Department of Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering at the ... and undergraduate research trainees who create the vibrant and intellectually stimulating ...

... engineers and software developers to solution architects, technical subject matter experts, and ... To learn more about the Marine Trades Training (MTT) programs and how the process works, please ...

... engineers and software developers to solution architects, technical subject matter experts, and ... To learn more about the Marine Trades Training (MTT) programs and how the process works, please ...

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Trainee Marine Engineer information

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$13

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$36

How much do trainee marine engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for trainee marine engineer in the United States is $21.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $24.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the salary of a trainee Marine Engineer?

The salary of a trainee Marine Engineer typically ranges from $1,200 to $2,500 per month, depending on the shipping company, region, and level of training. Trainees often receive additional benefits such as accommodation and meals onboard, and the role provides practical experience in ship systems and maintenance.

What engineers make $500,000?

Highly experienced engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. These roles typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and often involve leadership or executive responsibilities.

Is 40 too late to be an engineer?

For a Trainee Marine Engineer, starting a career at age 40 is possible, but it may require additional training, certifications, and experience compared to younger candidates. Many maritime engineering roles value practical skills and relevant knowledge, which can be gained at any age with dedication. Age should not be a strict barrier if the candidate meets the physical and educational requirements for the training program.

How to become a trainee Marine Engineer?

To become a trainee Marine Engineer, candidates typically need a relevant engineering diploma or degree, such as in marine or mechanical engineering, and must obtain necessary certifications like STCW. Training often involves completing a maritime training program and gaining practical experience onboard ships, followed by passing licensing exams to qualify as a Marine Engineer.

What are some typical challenges faced by Trainee Marine Engineers, and how can I prepare for them?

Trainee Marine Engineers often face challenges such as adapting to extended periods at sea, working in confined or noisy spaces, and troubleshooting complex mechanical issues under time pressure. Approaching these challenges with a proactive learning attitude, good physical stamina, and willingness to ask questions can make the transition smoother. You'll typically work closely with experienced engineers and crew members, gaining hands-on experience through regular maintenance, inspections, and repairs. Preparing by strengthening your technical knowledge and interpersonal skills will help you thrive in both the technical and team-oriented aspects of the job.

What is a Trainee Marine Engineer job?

A Trainee Marine Engineer is an entry-level position in the maritime industry where individuals gain hands-on experience in the operation, maintenance, and repair of a ship's machinery and systems. Under the supervision of senior engineers, they learn about engine room operations, safety procedures, and regulatory compliance. This role is crucial in preparing them for certification and advancement to higher engineering ranks onboard vessels.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Trainee Marine Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Trainee Marine Engineer, you need a background in marine engineering or a related field, strong mechanical aptitude, and problem-solving skills, often backed by a relevant degree or diploma. Familiarity with marine engines, shipboard machinery, CAD software, and safety certifications such as STCW is typically expected. Strong teamwork, adaptability, and effective communication skills help you succeed in collaborative and dynamic environments onboard vessels. These qualifications are essential for ensuring operational safety, efficient maintenance, and reliable technical support at sea.

More about Trainee Marine Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Trainee Marine Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Trainee Marine Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Marine Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Marine Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Trainee Marine Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Trainee Marine Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Trainee Marine 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 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,990 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

STUDENT TRAINEE (GENERAL ENGINEERING)

Military Sealift Command

Norfolk, VA • On-site, Remote

$32K - $48K/yr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Military Sealift Command rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

38th of 46 rated military and defense


Job description

Summary
This is a public notice flyer to notify interested applicants of anticipated vacancies. Applications will not be accepted through this flyer. Interested applicants must follow the directions in the "How to Apply" section of this flyer to be considered. There may or may not be actual vacancies filled from this flyer. Notice of Result letters will not be sent to applicants who respond to this flyer.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
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  • You will serve as a Student Trainee (General Engineering) in the Engineering Department of Military Sealift Command (MSC).
  • You will participate in activities supporting system and machinery design, alterations and modifications on MSC ships.
  • You will assist project engineers, review technical and engineering studies, perform calculations, and provide input on marine engineering issues.
  • You will communicate orally and in writing with personnel of various levels to exchange information, coordinate work, provide input or assist with problem solution.

Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • Must be a US Citizen.
  • Must be determined suitable for federal employment.
  • Must participate in the direct deposit pay program.
  • New employees to the Department of the Navy will be required to successfully pass the E-Verify employment verification check. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, visit e-verify.gov
  • Within the Department of Defense (DoD), the appointment of retired military members within 180 days immediately following retirement date to a civilian position is subject to the provisions of 5 United States Code 3326.
  • Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered for Selective Service.
  • You will be required to obtain and maintain an interim and/or final Secret security clearance prior to entrance on duty. Failure to obtain and
    maintain the required level of clearance may result in the withdrawal of a job offer or removal.

Qualifications
GS-03: Applicant must meet the following requirements:
  • Must be currently enrolled in a full-time academic program at an institution of higher education, be in good academic standing with a minimum GPA of 2.0 and making satisfactory progress towards the receipt of a bachelor's or graduate degree.
  • Student's academic or career goals must be in the field of Engineering or Naval Architecture.
  • Completion of 1 academic year of post-high school study.
  • Location Restriction: In accordance with the recent "return to office" executive order, candidate must be a local college student attending an institution within the local commuting area of Norfolk, VA.

GS-04: Applicant must meet the following requirements:
  • Must be currently enrolled in a full-time academic program at an institution of higher education, be in good academic standing with a minimum GPA of 2.0 and making satisfactory progress towards the receipt of a bachelor's or graduate degree.
  • Student's academic or career goals must be in the field of Engineering or Naval Architecture.
  • Completion of 2 academic years of post-high school study or associate's degree in the field of Engineering or Naval Architecture.
  • Location Restriction: In accordance with the recent "return to office" executive order, candidate must be a local college student attending an institution within the local commuting area of Norfolk, VA.

The required education must lead to a bachelor's or graduate degree with specialization in or directly related to the field of Engineering or Naval Architecture. The degree of specialization in this field must satisfy on graduation the specific educational requirements in the OPM qualification standard for the corresponding Professional two-grade interval positions.
Additional qualification information can be found from the following Office of Personnel Management website: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/#url=GS-CSST
Education
Qualifying level of education for GS-3: Completion of 1 academic year of post-high school study in the field of Engineering or Naval Architecture.
Qualifying level of education for GS-4: Completion of 2 academic years of post-high school study or associate's degree in the field of Engineering or Naval Architecture
Additional information
This announcement uses the Post-Secondary Students direct hire authority to recruit and appoint qualified candidates to certain positions in the competitive service. STUDENTS WHO HAVE ALREADY GRADUATED ARE NOT ELIGIBLE FOR THIS POSITION.
Upon completion of their academic program, student trainees may be noncompetitively converted to a permanent, competitive service, career-conditional appointment in the appropriate target series if they meet the qualification requirements of the target occupation, including minimum educational requirements. CONVERSION/APPOINTMENT IS NEITHER AUTOMATIC NOR GUARANTEED.
The target occupational series and grade level for the Student-Trainee's conversion would be FPL GS-12 or 13 in the following occupational series: 0801, 0830, 0850, 0855, 0871.
Surveys of ships and shipyards may require a considerable amount of walking, crawling and climbing. Occasional shipboard visits may require exposure to discomforts such as high noise levels, high temperatures, adverse weather conditions.
This position is subject to work an uncommon tour, including nights, weekends, and holidays to meet mission requirements. Overtime or night differential pay and/or unusual duty hours may be required.
In accordance with the recent "return to office" executive order, telework is restricted. Consequently, only local college students residing or attending school within commuting distance of Naval Base Norfolk will be considered for this position.
If selected below the full performance level, you may be noncompetitively promoted to the next higher grade level after meeting all regulatory requirements, and upon the recommendation of management. Promotion is neither implied nor guaranteed.
This position is covered by the Department of Defense Priority Placement Program.
Several vacancies may be filled.
A tentative offer of employment will be rescinded if the selectee fails to meet the pre-employment requirements, including failure to report to any of the scheduled appointments.
Federal annuitant information: The selection of an annuitant is subject to the Department of Defense and Department of the Navy policy on the employment of annuitants. Policy information may be found at: http://www.secnav.navy.mil/donhr/Documents/CivilianJobs/FedCivAnnuitants.pdf.
Veteran's preference does not apply when selecting individuals under this specific hiring authority. However, if you claim veteran's preference, you will be required to submit supporting documentation with your application as described in the Required Documents section below.
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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Review our benefits
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.