Marine engineer
Marine engineers design, build, test and repair boats, ships, underwater craft, offshore platforms and drilling equipment.
Average annual salary (starting - experienced): £24,000 - £55,000
Typical hours (a week): 39 - 41
Related videos on a marine engineer
How to become a marine engineer
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
University
You would normally need to complete a foundation degree or degree to become a marine engineer. Courses include:
- marine engineering
- marine technology
- naval architecture
- offshore engineering
University (Entry requirements)
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science
- 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including maths and a science for a degree
Apprenticeship
You may be able to do a marine engineer advanced apprenticeship, then take further training on the job to qualify. As a qualified engineer, you may be able to apply for a marine technical superintendent degree apprenticeship.
Apprenticeship (Entry requirements)
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
Work
You could train as a marine engineering technician with the Merchant Navy or Royal Navy, then study for a marine engineering degree while working.
More info
Further information You can find more advice about careers in engineering from the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology and British Marine.
What it takes
Skills & Knowledge
You'll need:
- maths knowledge
- knowledge of engineering science and technology
- the ability to use, repair and maintain machines and tools
- knowledge of physics
- design skills and knowledge
- thinking and reasoning skills
- excellent verbal communication skills
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
What you'll do
Day to day
Depending on the industry you work in, your duties could include:
- shipbuilding, boat-building and repair
- working in the leisure boat industry
- designing, building and operating offshore gas and oil platforms
- marine surveying
- making sure engines, instruments and systems work safely
Working environment
You could work at a shipyard, in an office, on a ship, at a port or underwater. Your working environment may be outdoors in all weathers, physically demanding and you may spend nights away from home. You may need to wear safety clothing and use safety equipment.
Career path and progression
Career path & progression
With experience, you could specialise in project management, research and development or consultancy. There are also opportunities for experienced marine engineers to work in shore-based roles with responsibility for vessel refits, legal work in maritime engineering safety and shipping fleet management.
