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Career Profile

Marine Engineers and Naval Architects

What they do:

Design, develop, and evaluate the operation of marine vessels, ship machinery, and related equipment, such as power supply and propulsion systems.

Also Called:

Marine Architect, Marine Design Engineer, Marine Engineer, Marine Engineering Consultant, Marine Structural Designer, Marine Surveyor, Naval Architect, Naval Architect Specialist, Ships Equipment Engineer, Structural Engineer, Marine Architect, Marine Design Engineer, Marine Engineer, Marine Engineering Consultant, Marine Structural Designer, Marine Surveyor, Naval Architect, Naval Architect Specialist, Ships Equipment Engineer, Structural Engineer

Job Data & Employment

*National data provided by O*NET & BLS
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$83,010
Starting Salary (2025)
$112,230
Median Salary (2025)
5.8%
Projected Job Growth
8,250
Employment (2025)

Typical Tasks

Prepare technical reports for use by engineering, management, or sales personnel.
Evaluate operation of marine equipment during acceptance testing and shakedown cruises.
Inspect marine equipment and machinery to draw up work requests and job specifications.
Prepare plans, estimates, design and construction schedules, and contract specifications, including any special provisions.
Prepare, or direct the preparation of, product or system layouts and detailed drawings and schematics.

A day in the life

What kind of work is this?

Realistic
Practical, Physical Work
Investigative
Studying, Research based work
Conventional
Organized, Procedural Work

What personality traits do you need to succeed?

Attention to Detail
Integrity
Analytical Thinking
Initiative
Dependability
Persistence

What key skills are needed for this job?

Reading Comprehension
Critical Thinking
Speaking
Active Listening
Judgment and Decision Making
Complex Problem Solving

Expected Knowledge

Engineering and Technology

Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.

Mathematics

Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.

Design

Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.

Common Activities

Getting Information

Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.

Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards

Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.

Making Decisions and Solving Problems

Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.

Education & Preparation

Some occupations may require additional education, advanced degrees, and years of experience in the field.
Talk to your support team on campus about this career pathway and additional degree information.
Job Zone 4

Considerable Preparation Needed

Education

Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.

Experience

A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations.

Training

Employees in these occupations usually need several years of work-related experience, on-the-job training, and/or vocational training.

Related Careers

Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians
Mechanical Engineers

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*Data on career profiles are based on information supplied by the O*NET Program, sponsored by U.S. Department of Labor, Employment, and Training Administration.