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Marine Engineers

Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics

Service Branches

  • navy logo
  • Coast Guard logo

Work Environment

Marine engineers do much of their work outdoors at shipyards while overseeing shipbuilding and repair activities. They work in offices while directing vessel design and development activities.

  • Military Status

    Officer

  • Median Military Salary This is the median, or the midpoint, of the salary range for this career.

    $130,347

    Military Salary Range Salary varies based on years of service, degree level, special pays, family status and location.

    $55,711 - $258,515

Overview

Marine engineers direct or supervise the design of ships, submarines, and other watercraft. They organize and coordinate design work, and oversee the construction, alteration, or repair of ships and marine equipment. Marine engineers may also lead or participate in naval scientific research.

Military Training

Officers typically enter the Military after they have completed a four-year college degree; enlisted service members can transition to officer positions through a variety of pathways and earn a degree while serving. Job training for marine engineers primarily consists of classroom instruction and on-the-job learning in various training environments. Like other officers they complete a comprehensive training program covering responsibilities military structure and etiquette traditions and leadership development. Job-specific training content may include:

  • Basic shipboard engineering
  • Damage control
  • Engineering management and administration afloat
  • Deck watch officer responsibilities
  • Naval engineering organization and maintenance management
  • Program management and mission support

Helpful Attributes

  • Ability to plan and organize research projects
  • Interest in ships and shipbuilding
  • Interest in technical work

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