Ship Engineers
What is a Ship Engineer?
Ship engineers are specialized professionals responsible for the operation, maintenance, and repair of the propulsion systems and auxiliary machinery on board ships and other marine vessels. Their expertise plays a vital role in ensuring the safe and efficient functioning of a ship's mechanical systems. Ship engineers work closely with other members of the maritime crew, including naval architects and deck officers, to oversee the engineering operations and manage the day-to-day technical aspects of the vessel. They are required to possess in-depth knowledge of various systems, such as engines, boilers, pumps, and electrical systems, and often work in challenging environments, including at sea for extended periods. Additionally, ship engineers must adhere to strict safety and regulatory standards, ensuring compliance with international maritime laws and regulations. Their role is critical not only in maintaining the operational integrity of the vessel but also in creating a safe and effective working environment for all crew members.
Tasks
- Monitor engine, machinery, or equipment indicators when vessels are underway, and report abnormalities to appropriate shipboard staff.
- Monitor the availability, use, or condition of lifesaving equipment or pollution preventatives to ensure that international regulations are followed.
- Monitor and test operations of engines or other equipment so that malfunctions and their causes can be identified.
- Start engines to propel ships, and regulate engines and power transmissions to control speeds of ships, according to directions from captains or bridge computers.
- Perform or participate in emergency drills, as required.
Technology Skills
-
Data base user interface and query software
- Kongsberg Maritime K-LOG Electronic Logbooks
- Microsoft Access
- Oracle Database
-
Presentation software
- Microsoft PowerPoint
-
Facilities management software
- Computerized maintenance management system CMMS
- Damen DAMOS
- Marine Software Marine Planned Maintenance
-
Spreadsheet software
- Microsoft Excel
-
Helpdesk or call center software
- Computer aided dispatch software
Tools Used
- Punches or nail sets or drifts
- Cold chisels
- Tinners snips
- Mallets
- Screwdrivers
Knowledge
-
Mechanical
Knowledge of machines and tools, including their designs, uses, repair, and maintenance.
-
English Language
Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
-
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.
-
Public Safety and Security
Knowledge of relevant equipment, policies, procedures, and strategies to promote effective local, state, or national security operations for the protection of people, data, property, and institutions.
-
Transportation
Knowledge of principles and methods for moving people or goods by air, rail, sea, or road, including the relative costs and benefits.
Skills
-
Critical Thinking
Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
-
Operation and Control
Controlling operations of equipment or systems.
-
Operations Monitoring
Watching gauges, dials, or other indicators to make sure a machine is working properly.
-
Equipment Maintenance
Performing routine maintenance on equipment and determining when and what kind of maintenance is needed.
-
Repairing
Repairing machines or systems using the needed tools.
Abilities
-
Deductive Reasoning
The ability to apply general rules to specific problems to produce answers that make sense.
-
Oral Comprehension
The ability to listen to and understand information and ideas presented through spoken words and sentences.
-
Oral Expression
The ability to communicate information and ideas in speaking so others will understand.
-
Problem Sensitivity
The ability to tell when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong. It does not involve solving the problem, only recognizing that there is a problem.
-
Control Precision
The ability to quickly and repeatedly adjust the controls of a machine or a vehicle to exact positions.
Education
How much education does a new hire need to perform a job in this occupation?
-
High school diploma or equivalent
or: GED, High School Equivalency Certificate
-
Post-secondary certificate
Awarded for training completed after high school (for example, in Personnel Services, Engineering-related Technologies, Vocational Home Economics, Construction Trades, Mechanics and Repairers, Precision Production Trades)
-
Post-baccalaureate certificate
Awarded for completion of an organized program of study; designed for people who have completed a Baccalaureate degree, but do not meet the requirements of academic degrees carrying the title of Master
Work Activities
-
Repairing and Maintaining Mechanical Equipment
Servicing, repairing, adjusting, and testing machines, devices, moving parts, and equipment that operate primarily on the basis of mechanical (not electronic) principles.
-
Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events
Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
-
Making Decisions and Solving Problems
Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
-
Controlling Machines and Processes
Using either control mechanisms or direct physical activity to operate machines or processes (not including computers or vehicles).
-
Getting Information
Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
Detailed Work Activities
- Monitor engine operation or functioning.
- Report vehicle or equipment malfunctions.
- Monitor availability of equipment or supplies.
- Operate ships or other watercraft.
- Maintain watercraft engines or machinery.
Work Interests
-
Realistic
Work involves designing, building, or repairing of equipment, materials, or structures, engaging in physical activity, or working outdoors. Realistic occupations are often associated with engineering, mechanics and electronics, construction, woodworking, transportation, machine operation, agriculture, animal services, physical or manual labor, athletics, or protective services.
-
Conventional
Work involves following procedures and regulations to organize information or data, typically in a business setting. Conventional occupations are often associated with office work, accounting, mathematics/statistics, information technology, finance, or human resources.
-
Enterprising
Work involves managing, negotiating, marketing, or selling, typically in a business setting, or leading or advising people in political and legal situations. Enterprising occupations are often associated with business initiatives, sales, marketing/advertising, finance, management/administration, professional advising, public speaking, politics, or law.
Job Outlook
Projected salary and job growth
$57140.0 - $141910.0
New job opportunities are likely in the future. : Average
Assessment
Related assessments and tests
No assessment available.