Design, develop, and evaluate the operation of marine vessels, ship machinery, and related equipment, such as power supply and propulsion systems.
SOC: 17-2121.00
Common Job Titles
Marine Engineer
Marine Engineering Consultant
Marine Surveyor
Naval Architect
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
KnowledgeDesign marine propulsion systems and vessel machinery configurations using advanced CAD software and engineering principles, following regulatory standards.
Advanced
KnowledgeFormulate innovative solutions for marine vessel efficiency and performance optimization considering energy efficiency, environmental impact, and operational cost.
Advanced
KnowledgeEvaluate technical specifications and operational performance of marine vessels to determine compliance with safety, environmental, and classification standards.
Proficient
KnowledgeAnalyze hydrodynamic data and structural integrity calculations using finite element analysis and computational fluid dynamics tools.
Proficient
KnowledgeSolve complex engineering problems in ship machinery and power supply systems applying mathematics, physics, and mechanical engineering knowledge.
Proficient
KnowledgeAssess vessel design proposals and equipment specifications collaborating with interdisciplinary marine engineering teams and regulatory bodies.
Proficient
Hands-onOperate computer-aided design and simulation software including AutoCAD, SolidWorks, ANSYS, and MATLAB for marine engineering applications.
Proficient
MindsetIntegrate client requirements with engineering feasibility and regulatory constraints when consulting with vessel owners, operators, and classification societies.
Proficient
MindsetAdvocate for safety-critical design decisions and sustainable marine engineering practices when presenting technical recommendations to stakeholders and project teams.
Proficient
KnowledgeSynthesize technical documentation including design specifications, test reports, and maintenance manuals in accordance with industry standards and classification society requirements.
Proficient
Hands-onExecute technical inspections of marine equipment and vessel structures in shipyard and offshore environments, documenting findings for compliance reporting.
Developing
MindsetEngage in continuous professional development on emerging marine technologies and regulations to maintain technical expertise in evolving maritime engineering standards.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Marine Engineers and Naval Architects (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
8,440
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $79,700. 25th percentile: U.S. $88,480. 50th percentile: U.S. $105,670. 75th percentile: U.S. $133,780. 90th percentile: U.S. $167,660. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$79,700
10% of workers earn the following or more
$167,660
Workers on average earn
$116,680
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Engineering and Technology4.4/5
Mathematics4.3/5
Design4.2/5
Physics4.1/5
English Language3.9/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
