Refrigeration engineer, ship

What does a refrigeration engineer do on ships? – Duties and working environment

Refrigeration engineers on ships are responsible for monitoring, operating, and maintaining refrigeration and freezing systems onboard. Tasks include daily operation and troubleshooting of machinery, repairs, and reporting on system status. The work also involves following safety regulations and environmental standards, as well as close collaboration with engine officers and other technical staff. The working environment is characterized by proximity to engine rooms, sometimes noisy and hot environments, and often involves shift work with longer periods at sea followed by time on land.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the average salary for a refrigeration engineer on ships has changed from 44,300 SEK in 2022 to 43 900 SEK in 2023 and further up to 45 100 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 1.8% over the period, with a slightly weaker development between 2022 and 2023, followed by a clearer rise in the latest year. Variations in salary development can partly be explained by changes in demand for technically trained personnel at sea, as well as industry needs for specialized skills in refrigeration technology. Overall, the profession has a stable salary progression, but competition for experienced engineers can sometimes lead to higher wages, especially on larger vessels and within international shipping.

Refrigeration Engineer, ships 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 (average): 271 SEK
• Gender differences: Men 45 700 SEK/month, women data missing
• Regional differences: Limited data, variations mainly depending on employer and vessel type

Education and qualifications

To work as a refrigeration engineer on ships, a post-secondary education in mechanical engineering or maritime studies is usually required, often combined with specialized courses in refrigeration technology. In addition to formal education, certification for engine officers and sometimes specific ship certifications are needed. Practical experience from engine rooms at sea is often a requirement, and further training may be necessary for certain vessel types or international service.

• Post-secondary education: At least 3 years (technical university or maritime education)
• Certificates: Engine officer class VII or higher, and vessel-specific qualifications
• Practical experience: Often required sea time/practice onboard ships
• Prerequisites: Good technical and mathematical skills
• Tips for choosing: Select education focused on maritime and refrigeration technology for the best opportunities

Common benefits and compensations

The profession as a refrigeration engineer on ships often includes benefits such as free travel to and from the vessel, onboard accommodation and meals, and compensation for unsocial hours. Additionally, bonuses for longer sea service, wellness allowances, and the possibility of extra leave after periods at sea are sometimes offered.

Competition and challenges

The job market for refrigeration engineers on ships is relatively small and specialized, which means competition can vary depending on vessel type and employer. Since the profession requires both technical competence and seafaring experience, high demands are placed on education and certification. Limited number of training places and the need for practical experience can be challenging when entering the profession. Technological advances and new environmental regulations in shipping also require ongoing skills development. Despite this, there are currently 412 job openings in the engine officer profession, indicating some demand, although the Swedish Public Employment Service cannot provide an exact forecast for this specific role.

Tips for those wishing to become a refrigeration engineer on ships

To succeed as a refrigeration engineer in a maritime environment, it is important to be meticulous and have a strong technical interest, as the work requires attention to detail and problem-solving skills daily. Flexibility and adaptability facilitate work, as working conditions and tasks can vary greatly depending on the vessel and route. Teamwork skills are crucial since much of the work is done in collaboration with other engine personnel. Good physical and mental endurance are also vital, as periods at sea can be long and demanding. Investing in the right education early on and seeking internships on different types of vessels provides broader experience. Staying updated on certification requirements and new technological solutions in refrigeration is also advantageous. Finally, building a network within the shipping industry can help, as many positions are filled through recommendations.

Key facts about Refrigeration Engineer, ships

• Education level: Post-secondary, at least 3 years
• Work environment: Onboard ships, often in engine rooms
• Typical work pattern: Scheduled sea service with long working periods
• Demand: 412 job openings in the engine officer profession
• Special skills: Certificates for engine officers and refrigeration technology

Career paths and outlook

After 3–5 years as a refrigeration engineer on ships, opportunities open for advancement to higher technical officer roles, such as chief engineer or technical manager onboard. Some choose to specialize further in refrigeration technology or transition to land-based positions within shipping companies, technical consultancies, or training organizations. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, there is no clear forecast for this specific profession due to limited data, but demand for engine officers remains generally stable. Technological progress and environmental regulations may influence the need for further training and certifications, but the industry is expected to continue offering career opportunities for qualified personnel.

Frequently asked questions about Refrigeration Engineer, ships

• What is the salary of a Refrigeration Engineer, ships?
  - A refrigeration engineer on ships has an average salary of 45 100 SEK per month.
• What are the salary differences between men and women?
  - Men earn an average of 45 700 SEK per month, while complete data for women is missing.
• What education is required to become a refrigeration engineer on ships?
  - At least three years of post-secondary education in engineering or maritime studies, along with certification for engine officers, is required.
• What is the working environment like for refrigeration engineers on ships?
  - The environment includes engine rooms, noise, heat, and long periods at sea.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Differences mainly depend on employer and vessel type rather than region.
• What career options are available after a few years in the profession?
  - Advancement to chief engineer, technical manager, or transition to land-based roles within engineering and shipping industries.
• What is the current demand for refrigeration engineers on ships?
  - There are currently 412 job openings in the engine officer profession.