How to become a Ship Engineer

Ship engineering is the field of engineering that is associated with the study, design, development, testing and application of components, equipment, devices and systems that are used at sea and on board sea vessels like passenger boats, sailboats, cruise ships, sub ships, or military battleships and aircraft carriers. A ship engineer or a marine engineer is responsible for the operation, maintenance and repair of all mechanical and engineered equipment on board any vessel in a smooth, safe, efficient and an environment-friendly manner. Ship engineering courses aim to produce dynamic professionals who are proficient with the many engineering subjects, concepts, principles and practices such as propulsion mechanics, electricity and power generation system, lubrication, fuel systems, water distillation, lighting and air conditioning system. Aspirants are enabled to find ship engineering jobs from a wide range of options such as Hotels that incorporate sea vessels in their services, Government organizations, Shipping companies, Ship engineering firms, Boatbuilders, and many others. Besides, a ship engineering degree holder can also find budding field jobs as trainers and teachers at various institutions. It should be noted that life as a ship engineer can be challenging and demanding and not everyone can adjust to it as the role may require the individual to go on board ships for extended periods of time where the environment could be hostile and taxing. However, not all ship engineering jobs require rigorous sea voyage and can be done from an office. Apart from the formal academic education, aspirants must go through rigorous training and also clear additional exams to become a competent professional.   

The role of a ship engineer depends on the educational background, experience, skill sets and area of specialization. Generally,  it comprises of the following tasks:

• Design new models and create blueprints using computer-aided design software
• Test, construct and supervise prototypes
• Experiment with different types of fuels, fuel systems and equipment
• Optimize the operational flow of processes
• Conduct simulated efficiency tests
• Deal with major maintenance and breakdown of machinery systems at sea
• Handle the transfer of fuel oil to the ship from a bunker station
• Keep a proper record of the maintenance system for official paperwork

A ship engineer must have certain requisite skills and inclinations along with a relevant educational background in order to excel in the field. Ship engineers must have a passion for tools, machines and technology, have leadership skills, team working skills, the ability to work well under pressure, great communication skills and a sharp, analytic mind along with problem-solving skills. The role of a ship engineer requires aspirants to, be thrifty, adaptable to uncomfortable conditions, practical, methodical and independent. 

The salary for Ship Engineers is as follows:

• Minimum Monthly Salary: For entry-level Ship Engineers or those with limited experience, the monthly salary might be around INR 30,000 to INR 50,000.
• Maximum Monthly Salary: Highly experienced and senior-level Ship Engineers, especially those serving on large vessels or working for reputed shipping companies, may earn a maximum monthly salary ranging from INR 1 lakh to INR 3 lakhs or more.
• Annual Salary: The annual salary for entry-level Ship Engineers could be approximately INR 3.6 lakhs to INR 6 lakhs per year. Experienced and successful Ship Engineers may earn a maximum annual salary ranging from INR 12 lakhs to INR 36 lakhs or more.
• Highest Paying Jobs and Scope: The highest paying jobs for Ship Engineers in India are typically with reputable shipping companies that operate large vessels such as tankers, container ships, or oil rigs. Ship Engineers working on these vessels, especially those with specialized skills and expertise, can command high salaries and benefits.The career scope for Ship Engineers in India is promising, as the shipping industry plays a vital role in global trade and commerce. There is a continuous demand for qualified and experienced Ship Engineers to ensure the smooth operation and maintenance of ships.

In order to enroll into a Bachelor’s program at an esteemed university, aspirants are expected to clear the JEE main and subsequently, the JEE Advance exam which makes the aspirant eligible to apply anywhere in India. It is a very difficult and challenging exam to crack that requires hard work as well as rigorous and consistent preparation. Some states have their own entrance exams that are admissible in their respective universities. Many educational institutes conduct their own entrance tests.

Depending on one’s educational background, experience, interests, and skill sets, aspirants may apply for the following ship engineering jobs: 

• Chief Engineer
• Chief Electric Tech Officer
• Design Engineer
• Navy Personnel
• Maintenance Engineer
• Chief Security Officer