Military Ship Engineers

Military Career

General Information

Description

Ship engineers maintain machinery and equipment for various parts of the fleet and are responsible for the overall operation, maintenance, and repair of engines, deck machinery, heating, power generation, and electrical wiring aboard a ship. They also respond to emergency situations such as leaks and fires, and conduct safety operations.

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Work Environment

Ship engineers work in engine rooms, where the noise levels and temperatures may be high.

Workplace at a Glance

What you can expect to experience while on the job

  • Responsibility
  • Exposure to job hazards
  • Physical activity
  • Decision making
  • Repetitiveness
  • Level of competition
  • Time pressure

Comparable Industries

  • Transportation, Distribution & Logistics
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Military Outlook

Service Branches

Jobs in this career field may be available in other service branches. Call or email a particular branch for more info.

Military Status

  • Officer
    • Managerial/professional
    • College degree required

Military Workforce

Ship Engineers in the Military

8,706

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Salary

Average Salary

$90,090

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Education

Most Common Education Levels

People in this career achieve this level of education.

  • Post-secondary certificate 49%
  • High school 33%
  • Some college 15%
  • Bachelor's degree 1%
  • Master's degree 0%
  • Doctoral degree 0%
  • Associate's degree 0%
  • Post baccalaureate 0%
  • Less than high school 0%
  • Post-doctoral training 0%
  • Post-master's certificate 0%
  • First professional degree 0%

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 ship engineers primarily consists of classroom instruction and on-the-job learning in various training environments. Training length varies depending on specialty; the time required for nuclear specialties is the longest. 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: Inspection and maintenance of marine engines, electrical systems, and fuel systemsOperation and maintenance of power plants and related machinery

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Knowledge

  • Mechanical
  • Engineering and Technology
  • Administration and Management
  • Transportation
  • Customer and Personal Service

Skills at a Glance

Skills helpful in this career

  • Verbal skills
  • Critical thinking & problem solving
  • Equipment operation & maintenance
  • Math & science skills
  • Technology design & control
  • Leadership
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