Marine & Maritime
Naval Architect
Designs the hull form, structure, and stability of ships and other marine vessels.
TechnicalCreativeStem
Marine & Maritime
Marine Engineer
Designs, operates, and maintains the propulsion, power, and mechanical systems that keep ships running.
Compare with another careerWhat you do
Works on engines, generators, pumps, and auxiliary machinery aboard ships or in shore-based design roles. Performs maintenance planning, troubleshoots mechanical and electrical faults, and ensures systems meet safety and efficiency standards.
Typical work environment
Either onboard a vessel in the engine room on rotational sea postings, or shore-based in a design or technical office, depending on career track; both involve close teamwork with deck and technical crew.
Typical entry point
Cadet or trainee marine engineer progressing through certificated ranks, or graduate engineer in a shore-based marine engineering role
Relevant subjects
Core
PhysicsMathematics
Also relevant
Chemistry
Relevant interests
Core
Ships / MarineMachines
Also relevant
TravelEnergy
Useful skills
Mechanical design· IntermediateProblem solving· AdvancedTeamwork· IntermediateAnalytical thinking· Intermediate
These are useful, relevant skills to build over time — not a checklist you need to already have.
Common education routes
Bachelor's degree—Marine EngineeringPrimary route
Diploma—Marine EngineeringCommon route
These are common routes in, not the only path — and not a university or course recommendation.
Career characteristics
Good international mobilityTravel-heavyHigh job securityDeep technical specialisation
General tendencies for this career, not a guarantee — actual roles vary by employer and location.
Industries
MarineShipping
Tags
STEMTechnicalField-basedInternational
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