Marine Engineer

What does a Marine Engineer do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A Marine Engineer works with the design, development, and maintenance of ships, marine installations, and technical systems related to shipping and the marine environment. Tasks include everything from designing ship hulls and machinery to managing larger marine projects and troubleshooting technical issues during operation and maintenance. Marine Engineers are often active in both private and public sectors, with work environments ranging from offices, shipyards, laboratories, and sometimes onboard ships. The profession demands high technical competence, precision, and the ability to collaborate with specialists from various disciplines.

Salary development over time

The salary for Marine Engineers has shown steady and positive growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 47,500 SEK per month, increasing to 49 700 SEK in 2023 and further to 52 000 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to an increase of approximately 9.5% over the period, with the largest increase between 2023 and 2024. This salary trend reflects a continued high demand for technical expertise in marine technology and a competitive job market, where employers often need to offer attractive conditions to attract and retain qualified engineers. The salary trend also shows some convergence between genders, although differences still exist.

Marine Engineer salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 52 000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 47,800 SEK/month (female, private sector, post-secondary education under 3 years)
• Highest salary: 63,000 SEK/month (male, private employee, postgraduate education)
• Hourly wage: 313 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 49 900 SEK (95% of men's salary at 52 700 SEK)
• Regional differences: The statistics show some variation depending on region and employer, with higher salaries in metropolitan areas and for private sector employees.

Education and qualifications

To work as a Marine Engineer, a Master of Science in Engineering in Mechanical Engineering or Marine Technology is generally required, often with specialization in ship and marine technology. The education combines theoretical studies with practical components and project work, and many employers prefer candidates with internship or thesis experience within the shipping industry. Certain certifications or licenses related to safety and shipping may also be required for some positions.

• Formal degree: Master of Science in Engineering in Mechanical Engineering or Marine Technology (5 years)
• Certifications: Licenses for work at sea or in safety-critical environments
• Internship: Strongly recommended during studies
• Prerequisites: Basic university eligibility, often specific requirements in mathematics and physics
• Tips: Choose thesis or internship projects in collaboration with shipyards or marine companies to increase employability

Common benefits and compensations

For Marine Engineers, benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, extra vacation, remote work options, and various forms of skills development are common. Some employers also offer bonus or profit-sharing schemes, especially in the private sector.

Competition and challenges

The job market for Marine Engineers is characterized by high demand and good employment opportunities, but also rapid technological development and requirements for continuous skill upgrading. Since the profession is part of the broader group of Master of Science in Engineering in Mechanical Engineering, competition for the most attractive positions, especially in innovation and leadership roles, is fierce. Difficulties in recruiting experienced engineers are also reported, which may lead employers to recruit broadly and internationally. Challenges also include changing environmental regulations, digitalization, and the increasing focus on sustainability in shipping.

Tips for aspiring Marine Engineers

To succeed as a Marine Engineer, it is beneficial to combine technical interest with analytical skills and a problem-solving mindset. Attention to detail and structured work are important, especially when working with complex systems or safety-critical applications. Good teamwork skills facilitate project work and communication across different professional groups. Keeping up with new technology and environmental regulations provides an advantage in the job market, while initiative and a desire to develop make it easier to take on leadership roles or specializations. Finally, early networking through internships, thesis projects, or industry forums is advantageous.

Key facts about Marine Engineers

• Education level: Master of Science in Engineering, often 5 years
• Work environment: Varies between offices, shipyards, and sometimes ships
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment nationally
• Special skills: Ship technology, sustainability solutions, project management
• Job openings: 564 within the profession (2024)

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years as a Marine Engineer, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as project manager, technical specialist, or manager within marine projects and development departments. Some choose to deepen their expertise in research and innovation, especially in environmentally friendly technology and digitalization of shipping. Forecasts from the Swedish Public Employment Service indicate that job opportunities for Master of Science in Engineering in Mechanical Engineering are substantial and expected to remain stable over the next five years. Despite a relatively large supply of qualified engineers, recruitment difficulties persist, suggesting a continued strong job market for Marine Engineers.

Frequently asked questions about Marine Engineering

• What does a Marine Engineer earn?
  - A Marine Engineer has an average salary of 52 000 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience, education, and employer.
• How do you become a Marine Engineer?
  - The profession typically requires a Master of Science in Engineering in Mechanical Engineering or Marine Technology, often a five-year program.
• Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
  - Yes, women earn on average 49 900 SEK, which corresponds to 95% of men's average salary at 52 700 SEK.
• What are common workplaces for Marine Engineers?
  - Common workplaces include shipyards, shipping companies, technical consultancies, and public authorities with a maritime focus.
• What are the future prospects?
  - The outlook is positive, with great opportunities for employment according to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Analytical ability, accuracy, teamwork skills, and interest in technology are central qualities.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for Marine Engineers?
  - The highest salary is 63,000 SEK and the lowest 47,800 SEK per month, depending on education, sector, and experience.