A marine engineer works on new marine vessels and their components, conducting research, development, and construction. He or she could design blueprints, engines and propulsion systems, test prototypes, and oversee the construction of full-size ships. A marine engineer might specialize in working on passenger boats, sailboats, cruise ships, submarines, or military battleships and aircraft carriers.
Marine engineers are employed industries that manufacture recreational vessels, such as fishing boats, speedboats, and sailboats, to design new models and improve various types of on-board systems. A marine engineer may test various fuels and fuel intake systems, outboard and inboard motors, navigation systems, propulsion devices, steering systems, and other relevant equipment. He or she frequently supervises the construction of prototypes and assists in the testing and tweaking of completed boats.
Large seafaring ships, such as ocean liners and cruise ships, require engineers with specialized knowledge of large-scale power supply systems and propulsion devices. They can design systems with computer-aided drafting software and test them in a simulated environment. A large craft marine engineer is typically very involved in the construction process, informing electricians and other workers about the project’s exact details.
The Navy and other military branches employ a large number of skilled engineers to design and improve naval vessels such as submarines and aircraft carriers. Typically, such marine engineers receive extensive training in military schools to learn about defense systems and nuclear power integration. They frequently collaborate with other engineers and military personnel to design and build highly complex, technologically advanced craft in cutting-edge naval facilities.
To work as a marine engineer, a person typically needs a master’s degree, though some people with bachelor’s degrees in engineering are able to find work. Before practicing their trade independently, most states and countries require new engineers to obtain a license. Most states and countries require engineers to gain about four years of supervised work experience and pass a written exam before they can be licensed. Additional certification is not usually required, but marine engineers who want to work on large ships often opt for accredited private programs to obtain professional qualifications.
In most specialties, there is a steady demand for qualified marine engineers. Individuals who design recreational boats and join the navy typically have the best job opportunities. Engineers with computer and electronics skills have the best chance of finding steady work with research and development institutions as marine technology advances.