Marine Engineer and Naval Architect
Marine engineers and naval architects are specialized professionals responsible for the design and construction of various types of marine vessels and their systems. Marine engineers primarily focus on the development of propulsion systems and other mechanical components, while naval architects oversee the overall design, including the ship's structure and hull. These professionals work mainly in office settings, utilizing computer-aided design (CAD) software to create detailed plans and models, but they also travel to shipyards to monitor construction and ensure compliance with specifications and safety regulations.
The median annual earnings for marine engineers and naval architects stand at approximately $100,270, and entry into this field typically requires a bachelor's degree in engineering. While the job outlook indicates little change in employment levels, those in this profession often find opportunities to work with private shipbuilding companies, the military, and in emerging marine energy sectors. As they navigate tight deadlines and complex projects, marine engineers and naval architects must stay updated on technological advancements, government regulations, and best practices in shipbuilding. Overall, this field combines engineering expertise with a commitment to safe and efficient maritime transport.
Marine Engineer and Naval Architect
Snapshot
Career Cluster(s): Architecture & Construction, Manufacturing, Science, Technology, Engineering & Math
Interests: Mechanical Engineering, Architecture, Design, Hydrodynamics, Physics, Shipbuilding, Marine Transport
Earnings (Yearly Median): $100,270 per year $48.21 per hour
Employment & Outlook: 1% (Little or no change)
Entry-Level Education Bachelor's degree
Related Work Experience None
On-the-job-Training None
Overview
Sphere of Work. Marine engineers and naval architects design ship structures, power plants, propulsion systems, compartments, hulls, and many other ship systems. They also collaborate with other engineers and personnel on constructing and maintaining those components to ensure plans are followed and meet the client’s specifications and budget. Most marine engineers and naval architects work for private shipbuilding companies, some of which do contract work for the US Navy and Coast Guard, cruise lines, and other entities. Marine or naval architects are responsible for the overall design of ships, while marine engineers focus on designing marine propulsion systems.
Work Environment. Most marine engineers and naval architects work in office environments, where most design and modeling operations are conducted. Marine engineers and naval architects are often called upon to travel to client offices, shipyards, and other production sites to follow up on construction. In such environments, they may be exposed to physical risks, such as falling debris or leaking toxic substances. Marine engineers and naval architects typically work regular hours, although when faced with deadlines or setbacks in the work performed, they often work longer hours with greater degrees of pressure.
Occupation Interest. Marine engineers and naval architects design ships and their systems. They are responsible for the latest in naval warships, Coast Guard watercraft, oil tankers, cargo freighters, cruise ships, recreational boats, and other vessels. Marine engineers and naval architects are often subject to rigid deadlines and time constraints, which can create a dynamic and energetic workplace. Additionally, marine engineers and naval architects often travel to shipyards worldwide to watch and contribute to the construction, repair, and maintenance of large watercraft.
A Day in the Life—Duties and Responsibilities. Marine engineers and naval architects utilize and build upon an extensive knowledge of shipbuilding processes, trends, and concepts. They attend conferences and seminars and conduct independent research on the latest shipbuilding technologies and designs. They focus on the field's most efficient, cost-effective, and safe concepts and approaches. They also keep up-to-date on the various government regulations that apply to shipbuilding.
Marine engineers and naval architects use this knowledge to establish a project’s budget and timeline with the client. Marine engineers and naval architects create a comprehensive plan for constructing the vessel or system using detailed modeling and computer-aided design (CAD) software based on the client's needs. Additionally, these professionals select and purchase building materials, coordinate with construction crews and suppliers, and maintain consistent contact with the client throughout the project’s lifespan. Marine engineers and naval architects frequently travel to the construction site to monitor progress and conduct stress tests. When the ship is put to sea for trials, the architect and/or engineer will be on board, observing the new system or design’s effectiveness and ensuring that it conforms to the client’s specifications and national and international maritime standards.
Most marine engineers and naval architects are part of larger private shipbuilding companies. Some are self-employed consultants and may have other responsibilities in addition to the shipbuilding field, including business development and administrative management.
Some marine engineers and naval architects work in the marine energy field. These professionals are specifically tasked with helping to design and operate wave, tidal, ocean, and offshore wind turbines, as well as other similar technologies.
Marine Equipment Research Engineers (014.061-018). Marine equipment research engineers conduct research on marine machinery and equipment.
Marine Equipment Test Engineers (014.061-022). Marine equipment test engineers test marine equipment and machinery.
Marine Surveyors (014.167-010). Marine surveyors survey marine vessels and watercraft, such as ships, boats, tankers, and dredges, to check the condition of the hull, machinery, equipment, and equipage to determine the required repairs for vessels to meet insurance requirements.
Port Engineers (014.167-014). Port engineers coordinate repair and maintenance functions of the operating fleet to minimize loss of revenue and cost of repairs.
Work Environment
Immediate Physical Environment. Most of the work performed by marine engineers and naval architects is done in an office setting, where modeling and designs are drafted. Meetings with clients are also typically conducted in office environments. Marine engineers and naval architects frequently travel to shipyards and production facilities. Although safety standards at such sites are strong, they can pose some physical risks.
Human Environment. Marine engineers and naval architects coordinate with clients, construction crews, suppliers, and regulatory officials during a project. Suppose marine engineers and naval architects are working on a specific ship compartment under construction. In that case, they often interact and coordinate with other engineers and naval architects working on other areas of the ship. When a project is complete and the ship is put to sea for trials, marine engineers and naval architects interact with the ship’s officers and crew.
Technological Environment. Marine engineers and naval architects must be familiar with various technologies and equipment. They use CAD and other modeling software like Autodesk AutoCAD or Dassault Systemes SolidWorks, analytic and scientific software such as Ansys Fluent or MathWorks MATLAB, scientific databases, and office and management programs in the design phases. On-site, they also work with systems that gauge speed, stability, and stress on the ship and its new components.
Education, Training, and Advancement
High School/Secondary. High school students are encouraged to take physics, computer science, drafting, and electronics courses. They should also take relevant math courses like geometry, algebra, and calculus. Students should also study subjects that build communication skills.
Postsecondary. Marine engineers and naval architects should have a bachelor’s degree in engineering. Graduate degrees in marine engineering, naval architecture, and similar fields bolster a job candidate’s appeal to employers. Many individuals obtain additional training in the field by joining the US Navy, Coast Guard, or Merchant Marine after high school.
Related Occupations
− Architect
Bibliography
"Marine Engineers & Naval Architects." My Next Move, 2024, www.mynextmove.org/profile/summary/17-2121.00. Accessed 22 Aug. 2024.
"Marine Engineers and Naval Architects." Occupational Outlook Handbook. US Bureau of Labor Statistics, US Department of Labor, 17 Apr. 2024, www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/marine-engineers-and-naval-architects.htm. Accessed 22 Aug. 2024.
"Naval Architect and Marine Engineer." US Department of Energy, 2024, www.energy.gov/eere/water/naval-architect-and-marine-engineer. Accessed 22 Aug. 2024.