How to become A Marine Engineer

Ships deliver nearly four-fifths the volume of the worldwide trade in goods, whether oil or other high-cost cargo. Marine Engineers are responsible for ensuring the smooth sailing of these ships as even the tiniest indication of a problem may have disastrous consequences, from suppliers missing deadlines to cargo not arriving on time and delaying contracts between companies.

• Naval Engineer

What do Marine Engineers do? 

A Marine Engineer would typically need to:

• Conduct research and tests and use the outcomes to design and construct marine vehicles and equipment
• Draft technical reports outlining research and systems diagnostics; create design analysis documentation
• Oversee the design process for structural, mechanical, and electrical systems; prepare detailed drawings of the physical appearance and internal layout of a new ship, its system layouts and schematics
• Determine and design the equipment and supplementary machines needed to fulfil operational targets; select suitable materials and construction techniques to fabricate marine equipment
• Organise the evaluation of environmental impact to ensure the compliance of ship designs with legal requirements
• Prepare cost estimates of an initial project and ongoing maintenance; create design and construction schedules for the completion of each step in the process
• Present the layout and engineering designs with estimated budget and timelines to clients and team members for analysis and feedback
• Formulate contract specifications; liaise with contractors and oversee the construction of vessels to ensure that all their parts are stable and durable and that work progresses correctly, adhering to safety precautions, project timelines and budgetary guidelines
• Test various components of a vessel under controlled conditions and adjust them as required
• Train and manage engineering teams of designers, mechanics & construction staff
• Liaise with authorities to optimise the safety and cost aspects of repair and modification work
• Collect and analyse data on ship speed, buoyancy and other key metrics; plan the supply of adequate energy or fuel to last through a voyage
• Write installation instructions and technical manuals to troubleshoot emergency repairs and for use by other engineers, managers, or sales staff
• Conduct or supervise regular environmental, operational, and performance assessments to ensure the quality control and integrity of marine vehicles and their systems, equipment and machinery
• Draw up work requests & job specifications; perform periodic maintenance; investigate and diagnose technical problems and carry out necessary and effective repairs, upgrading as required, ensuring adherence to safety and legal standards

Marine Engineers typically work in offices with access to computer software and other tools for assessing projects and developing solutions.

Travel away from home is possible, and so are trips out on the open ocean for projects such as specialist inspections, ship designing, testing, and maintenance. The post may frequently necessitate a temporary relocation to another city, region, or even country.

Depending on the type of work you do, your working hours will vary. Preliminary design work, for example, would need you to work a typical nine-to-five day. However, Marine Engineers who spend most of their time on-site are more likely to work longer hours.

You may also choose to freelance, in which case, you can set your own schedule.

Finding a new job might seem challenging. Marine Engineers can boost their job search by asking their network for referrals, contacting companies directly, using job search platforms, going to job fairs, leveraging social media, and inquiring at staffing agencies.

Marine Engineers are generally employed by:

• The Shipping Industry
• The Ship & Boat Building Industry
• Engineering Companies
• Architectural Companies
• Governmental Agencies
• The Water Transportation Industry
• Scientific & Technical Services

Professional associations and organisations, such as the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science, and Technology (IMarEST), are crucial for Marine Engineers interested in pursuing professional development or connecting with like-minded professionals in their industry or occupation. Membership in one or more adds value to your resume while bolstering your credentials and qualifications.

• Working long hours due to the volatility of the industry and changes that take place; erratic schedules due to round-the-clock work; the risk of making mistakes due to fatigue caused by insufficient rest between shifts
• Dealing with extreme working conditions when employed on vessels, such as storms, waves, high open spaces, and warm, humid and cramped quarters
• Being exposed to high levels of asbestos when working in shipyards can lead to mesothelioma, lung disease, and fibrosis
• Injuries from explosions or fires in the engine room; fractures, head injuries or drowning due to slips and falls caused by slick surfaces, the tossing and turning of the vessel with the ocean movement, and the absence of non-skid footwear
• Being exposed to highly flammable, corrosive or explosive chemicals can result in severe burns or loss of limb functions
• Substandard, old and unseaworthy vessels may lead to injuries
• The risk of kidnapping or piracy when working offshore, particularly on oil platforms
• Self-isolation, lack of privacy, isolation from family, erratic work schedules, and confined living can give rise to emotional distress and other stress-related issues, including physical symptoms and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Fieldwork is often the cornerstone of a bachelor’s degree in marine engineering. Ideally, the program should comprise one or two semesters of practical work on board and evaluation in design development, solving problems on board, and making critical decisions.

Where the course providers do not offer such internships, you will need to actively seek avenues to gain relevant work experience either working onshore or on board.

Volunteer in a ship and boat building company, or engage in work that shows you the process of designing mechanical systems and the maintenance of vessels.Read about the profession and engineering companies to job shadow or interview marine engineering professionals to prove your commitment to course providers and prospective employers.

Employers prefer Marine Engineers with at least a bachelor’s degree in marine engineering technology or any engineering-related degree. Typical courses in the four-year program include marine engineering fundamentals, electrical engineering, thermodynamics, fundamentals of naval architecture, fluid dynamics, and steam, diesel, and gas propulsion systems.You will also learn to design and operate shipboard electrical & environmental systems and power plants.

Marine engineering programs normally place a strong emphasis on physics, engineering, and mathematics. Taking online math or other relevant high school courses can help you get a head start. Many programs, especially those that incorporate maritime experience, offer lessons on ship safety and protocols.

Further, you may have a choice between programs that offer you the option of licensure for shipboard work and those that do not. Most programs, however, prepare you to work on land and at sea. Keep in mind that marine engineering schools may be easier to find along the coast than inland.

Marine Engineers typically need to be certified and licensed by relevant authorities, such as the national coast guard.

A combination of education, experience, and basic proficiency exams is generally required to gain certification from an objective and reputed organisation. However, requirements differ from region to region. In some locations, a certificate of competency would allow you to work at sea.

A mandatory license issued by an authorised body on completing preparatory courses will permit you to work aboard ships or on land. If you plan to work aboard ships, choose a program of study inclusive of a licensure option. Typically, a licensure exam would test your knowledge of navigation, keeping watch, ship power & propulsion systems, maritime law, and emergency procedures.

If you intend to work on land, you may earn a license to work as a professional or chartered engineer after acquiring the stipulated professional experience. Such credentials would qualify you to provide services to the public. Check with your prospective employers and local regulating authorities for exact prerequisites.

Marine Engineers may advance to Technical Specialists and Supervisors of a team of engineers and technicians as they gain more experience and knowledge, thus being able to move on to more challenging projects that require them to undertake independent design development, decision-making and problem-solving.

You could specialise in project management, research and development, or consulting after gaining experience or work as Engineering Managers or in other managerial roles. Having an engineering background allows salespeople to explain technical elements of specific engineering projects to clients and help them plan projects and install and use systems & equipment.

Experienced Marine Engineers can also operate in shore-based positions wherein they are responsible for vessel refits, maritime engineering safety legalities, and fleet management.

With relevant experience, an established name, and valid professional credentials, you may choose to be self-employed or work as a freelance Marine Engineer.

A master’s degree in marine engineering is highly recommended for better job prospects as a Marine Engineer.

Continuing professional development (CPD) will help an active Marine Engineer build personal skills and proficiency through work-based learning, a professional activity, formal education, or self-directed learning. It allows you to upskill continually, regardless of your age, job, or level of knowledge.

Employers frequently provide structured programs lasting two to three years to newly-recruited Marine Engineers to help them gain hands-on experience working on team-related tasks across departments. Ongoing training, either in-house or through outside courses, will also help you adapt to the needs of the job and learn new skills for the future. You will typically start work under experienced engineers. Larger companies may provide formal classroom training or seminars. You may also receive financial aid to help you earn credentials.

In addition to becoming licensed, Marine Engineers may pursue additional educational qualifications by obtaining a master’s degree. It entails in-depth study into all areas of ocean-related engineering, such as designing ships for wind and wave stress, selecting materials to survive corrosion caused by seawater, and adhering to docking and ocean travel regulations.

Certification is available in naval engineering, merchant shipbuilding, and watchkeeping for seafarers. You may listen to podcasts, read books, and attend seminars or webinars.

Participation in societal activities and initiatives not only benefits the marine engineering community but also keeps Marine Engineers up to date on all critical issues and developments. It enables them to collaborate and learn from each other's experiences and tap into an extensive array of knowledge and resources.

Marine Engineers On Board

The number of Marine Engineers on board a maritime vessel varies depending on the size and type of ship. A seafaring vessel’s engine department typically has four categories of officers.

Chief Engineers head the management of the engineering department. They must have sufficient expertise and knowledge, as well as practical skills, to maintain the ship’s propulsion and efficiency and reach port safely. They are the highest authority on all matters relating to mechanical and technical difficulties.

Second Engineers work under Chief Engineers and oversee the engine room, performing all essential maintenance, troubleshooting, and ensuring safe and efficient operation of the ship's machinery. The engine room personnel report to them, and they are also management officers in control of the ship's main propulsion machinery, steering gears, and other auxiliary machinery. Second Engineers also keep safe watch during the period allotted to them.

Third Engineers are members of both the management and operation teams and often the shipboard safety officers. They are in charge of the boilers, generators, and other auxiliary equipment and assist the Second Engineer during significant maintenance projects.

Fourth Engineers are the junior-most certified officers in charge of maintaining machinery related to MARPOL (the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships), including sewage treatment plants, incinerators, oily water separators, and other auxiliary equipment such as air compressors, freshwater generators, and other engine room pumps. They also keep safe and efficient engine room watch and are typically solely responsible for sludge and bilge management.

Potential Pros & Cons of Freelancing vs Full-Time Employment

Freelancing Marine Engineers have more flexible work schedules and locations. They have full ownership of the business and can select their projects and clients. However, they experience inconsistent work and cash flow, which means more responsibility, effort and risk.

On the other hand, a full-time Marine Engineer has company-sponsored health benefits, insurance, and retirement plans. They have job security with a fixed, reliable source of income and guidance from their bosses. Yet, they may experience boredom due to a lack of flexibility, ownership, and variety.

When deciding between freelancing or being a full-time employee, consider the pros and cons to see what works best for you.

A large cargo ship consumes 150-250 tons of fuel/day, its fuel requirement/kilometre equalling that of 3,770 smart cars.

A Marine Engineer's job entails not only guaranteeing the safety of the crew and passengers but also bringing vessels from the drawing board to life. Marine Engineers play a critical role in ensuring that these ships operate efficiently in a world that depends on transporting goods primarily through shipping.

Use past maintenance reports to assist you in determining the primary faults that the machinery has encountered and the ones that have occurred repeatedly. Studying these reports will also help you discover how the machinery will respond under various scenarios.