Job Description
Marine Engineers design, build, test and repair boats, ships, remote operated vehicles, offshore platforms and drill ships. Most marine engineers will choose to specialise in one particular area such as maintenance of engines or design, their responsibilities will vary depending on the specialism area but they will be responsible for liaising with the client and establishing the requirements for the project they are involved with.
Entry Requirements
You can get into this role through various ways as follows:
University
This would be the most obvious route and employers will normally look for applicants with a degree in one of the following:
- marine engineering
- marine technology
- naval architecture
- offshore engineering
Entry requirements for a degree course, can vary depending on the university you are applying to but you will usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSE's at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) or equivalent including English, maths and science
- and 2 or 3 A levels or equivalent including maths and a science
Apprenticeship
You could look for a marine engineer advanced apprenticeship, then take further training to qualify.
As a qualified engineer, you may be able to apply for a marine technical superintendent degree apprenticeship.
Entry requirements:
for an advanced apprenticeship - 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science
for a higher or degree apprenticeship - 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent
Work based route
You could train as an engineering technician with the Merchant Navy or Royal Navy and study for a degree while on the job
The Institute of Marine Engineering Science and Technology (IMarEST) and British Marine have more information about becoming a marine engineer.
Career Path and Progression
With experience, you could specialise in project management, research and development or consultancy.
There are also opportunities overseas for experienced marine engineers.
Related careers you may be interested in:
- Mechanical engineer
- Electrical engineer
- Design and development engineer
Required Skills
- Excellent maths and IT skills
- Good at communicating and negotiation
- The ability to prioritise workloads and plan effectively
- The ability to manage a team
- Health and safety awareness
- Excellent technical knowledge
Salary Range
£24,000 to £55,000
