An ocean engineer conducts research, develops designs, and constructs a variety of marine equipment. Professionals use their understanding of seawater’s physical and chemical properties to solve problems in ocean research and transportation. An ocean engineer may specialize in the design of ships, complex measuring instruments, oil rigs, or large desalination or hydroelectric power systems. Engineers work in a variety of industries and settings, including oil companies, environmental agencies, and military branches, to name a few.
Ocean engineers spend most of their time in offices or laboratories, researching various types of existing marine equipment and determining whether new technology is required. An ocean engineer uses computer-aided design (CAD) software to create blueprints and schematics for new equipment and vehicles with the help of a team of other marine specialists. He or she runs designs through computer simulations to see how effective they are, and then supervises the creation of models and prototypes. After a design is approved, the engineer assists in the coordination of large-scale production.
Many people work on developing and researching instruments that are used to measure ocean depths, composition, and temperature. A private-sector engineer might work on the construction of new ships and ports, whereas a government or military-sector engineer might work on submarines, radar systems, underwater communications systems, or missiles. Ocean engineers designed the majority of the equipment and vessels found in the ocean.
Desalination plants, which convert ocean water into potable freshwater, may be designed by an expert who works for an environmental protection agency. Experts in civil and chemical engineering may be able to assist in the construction of renewable energy plants that use ocean tides and currents to generate hydroelectric power. Other engineers offer advice to shipping companies on how to reduce pollution and other threats to marine life.
An oil company’s ocean engineer creates new types of oil rigs and suggests improvements to existing equipment. He or she researches current technology to see how the drilling process can be made more cost-effective and environmentally friendly. Engineers frequently collaborate with marine geologists and oceanographers to gain a better understanding of the risks and benefits of drilling in specific areas. Oil company engineers use CAD programs and other software to create blueprints and simulate test runs, just like most other ocean engineers.
To work as an ocean engineer in most cases, you’ll need a master’s degree in mechanical, civil, or chemical engineering. The majority of master’s degree engineering programs last five to six years. Many countries require licensing to work as an ocean engineer, which entails passing a series of exams covering the fundamentals of the profession, as well as safety regulations and laws. Successful, licensed engineers typically have a lot of opportunities for advancement, and some can even start their own businesses as consultants or plant owners.