Ship engineer

What does a ship engineer do? – Tasks and work environment

A ship engineer is responsible for the operation, maintenance, and repair of machinery and technical systems onboard ships. Tasks include monitoring engines, electrical systems, cooling systems, and other machinery to ensure safe and efficient operation at sea. Ship engineers often work in shifts and spend extended periods at sea, which means the work environment is characterized by both technical challenges and teamwork requirements onboard. The job demands high technical understanding, problem-solving skills, and the ability to act quickly in case of operational disruptions.

Salary development over time

The salary for ship engineers has shown some variation in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 44,300 SEK per month, which decreased slightly to 43 900 SEK in 2023. Subsequently, the salary increased to 45 100 SEK in 2024, representing an increase of approximately 2.7% between 2023 and 2024. Fluctuations can be explained by market factors such as demand for experienced ship engineers, changes in industry structure, and variations in working conditions and education levels among professionals. Overall, the profession has followed a cautious salary development, but the recent increase indicates a growing need for technical competence and specialization within the maritime sector.

Ship engineer salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 45 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 33,400 SEK/month (men), 35,700 SEK/month (women)
• Highest salary: 51,000 SEK/month (men), 39,100 SEK/month (women)
• Hourly wage: 271 SEK
• Gender differences: Men earn on average 45 700 SEK/month; women 35,700–39,100 SEK/month (lowest/highest)
• Regional differences: Limited statistics, but variations exist depending on shipping company and work area

Education and qualifications

To work as a ship engineer, a post-secondary education in maritime or mechanical engineering is required, typically at university level. The education combines theory and practice to provide both technical knowledge and understanding of maritime safety requirements. Certifications and onboard training are mandatory to meet national and international regulations.

• Formal degree: Maritime engineering education, 3–4 years at university or vocational college
• Certificates: Approved engineering officer certificate and valid qualifications according to the Swedish Transport Agency
• Practical training: Onboard internships during education are required
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility and specific requirements in mathematics and technology
• Tips for choosing: Select a program with strong industry links and opportunities for international internships

Common benefits and compensation

Ship engineers are often offered benefits such as extra vacation, free meals and accommodation onboard, as well as allowances for unsociable hours. Some employers also provide wellness contributions, pension schemes, and opportunities for further training in technology and safety.

Competition and challenges

The maritime engineering profession has a relatively small job market in Sweden, which can lead to some competition for the most attractive positions. Due to technological developments, continuous skills upgrading is required, especially in environmental technology and digitalization of ship systems. Long periods at sea and shift work can be challenging for those seeking work-life balance. Limited future market statistics make it difficult to give an exact picture, but currently, there are 412 job openings in the engineering field. To stand out, experience, proper certifications, and the ability to adapt quickly to changes at sea are essential.

Tips for aspiring ship engineers

To succeed as a ship engineer, it is good to be technically curious and possess strong problem-solving skills, as work often involves quickly identifying and fixing faults in complex machinery systems. Precision is crucial, especially regarding safety procedures and maintenance documentation. Enjoying teamwork and demonstrating good collaboration skills during long periods at sea are important traits, as well as being flexible in the face of unforeseen events and changing work conditions. A willingness to continuously develop and stay updated on new maritime technologies provides advantages in the job market. Practical experience through internships and summer jobs onboard offers valuable insights and strengthens your CV. Good physical health and stress resilience are also important, as the work can be physically demanding and require quick decisions under pressure.

Key facts about the ship engineer profession

• Education level: Post-secondary degree, 3–4 years
• Work environment: Onboard ships, often in shifts and extended periods at sea
• Job market: 412 job openings in the engineering profession
• Qualifications: Mechanical engineering certificates and licenses required
• Special skills: Advanced technical expertise in machinery systems and safety

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years in the profession, a ship engineer can advance to senior roles such as chief engineer or technical manager onboard. Career opportunities also exist within shipping companies' technical departments, education, or as inspectors for authorities and classification societies. The Swedish Employment Service's forecast for the engineering field is limited due to insufficient data, but the job market is considered stable with a continuous need for specialized technicians. International opportunities are good, as Swedish ship engineers are regarded as highly competent. Technological advancements and increased environmental requirements are expected to boost demand for qualified engineers focused on sustainable shipping.

Frequently asked questions about ship engineers

• What is the average salary of a ship engineer?
  - The average salary is 45 100 SEK per month.
• What education is required to become a ship engineer?
  - Post-secondary maritime engineering education at university or vocational college, along with approved certificates.
• How do gender differences in salary look?
  - Men earn on average 45 700 SEK, while women have a salary between 35,700–39,100 SEK.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, but variations mainly depend on employer and work area rather than region.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Free meals and accommodation onboard, extra vacation, overtime pay, and wellness contributions are common benefits.
• What is the job market like for ship engineers?
  - Currently, there are 412 job openings within the engineering profession according to recent statistics.
• What career opportunities are available in the long term?
  - Advancement to chief engineer, technical manager, or work within shipping companies' technical departments are possible paths.