Engineer Assistant

What does a machine officer assistant do? – Tasks and work environment

A machine officer assistant works onboard ships and assists the engineering crew with operation, maintenance, and monitoring of the vessel's machinery and technical systems. Tasks include daily inspections of engines, troubleshooting, repairs, and documentation of operational data. They often participate in shift work and collaborate closely with the crew to ensure the engine room functions safely and efficiently. The work environment is technically advanced, often noisy, and requires good physical fitness, accuracy, and problem-solving skills.

Salary development over time

The salary for machine officer assistants has shown a moderate but steady increase in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 44,300 SEK, which decreased slightly the following year to 43 900 SEK. In 2024, the salary increased to 45 100 SEK, a rise of approximately 2.7% from the previous year. This variation reflects changes in demand on the labor market and collective bargaining negotiations. The profession is influenced by overall trends in the shipping industry and technical requirements, where postgraduate education and certifications are often rewarded with higher salary levels. Despite some fluctuations, the trend indicates that skills are in demand and salaries are relatively resilient to market fluctuations.

Machine officer assistant salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 45 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary (man): 33,400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary (woman): 35,700 SEK/month
• Highest salary (man): 51,000 SEK/month
• Highest salary (woman): 39,100 SEK/month
• Hourly wage: 271 SEK
• Gender differences: Men earn an average of 45 700 SEK, women 39,100–35,700 SEK (highest–lowest)
• Regional differences: Limited data, but variations occur depending on employer and port location

Education and qualifications

To work as a machine officer assistant, a high school maritime or technical education is usually required, often supplemented with postgraduate studies and certificates according to international maritime regulations. Practical experience in the engine room, trainee programs, and sea time are important parts of qualifying for the role. Requirements may vary between employers and vessel types, but safety and technical competence are always central.

• High school education: Maritime or technical programs (3 years)
• Post-secondary education: Vocational university or equivalent (1–3 years)
• Certifications: STCW certificates and safety courses
• Practical training: Mandatory sea time/internship during education
• Prerequisites: Good knowledge of engineering, mathematics, and English

Common benefits and compensation

Machine officer assistants are often offered benefits such as per diems during international assignments, free food and accommodation onboard, and additional pay for unsocial hours and overtime. Some employers also provide wellness allowances and opportunities for further education in shipping and technology.

Competition and challenges

The job market for machine officer assistants is relatively specialized, and competition can vary depending on vessel type and geographic region. The gender imbalance still reflects a male-dominated industry, which can affect recruitment opportunities for women. Technical changes and increased demands for environmental and safety competence mean that professionals need to stay updated and continue training regularly. Limited data makes it difficult to predict future demand precisely, but there is a steady need within the shipping industry. Those who are flexible and able to work internationally often have more opportunities.

Tips for aspiring machine officer assistants

To succeed as a machine officer assistant, it’s good to combine technical interest with accuracy and teamwork skills. Engagement in education and taking initiative with internships provide valuable experience. Good communication skills, especially in English, are important since the work environment is often international. Flexibility and stress tolerance are needed to handle irregular working hours and unforeseen situations onboard. A continuous desire to learn and stay updated on technology and safety procedures is crucial for development in the role. Demonstrating responsibility and good safety awareness is appreciated by employers. Finally, being solution-oriented and comfortable in a practical work environment is an advantage.

Key facts about the machine officer assistant profession

• Education level: High school or postgraduate education in maritime/engineering
• Work environment: Onboard ships, often international environment
• Typical work pattern: Shift work and periodic work
• Demand: 412 job openings in 2024
• Special skills: STCW certificates and safety training

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years of experience as a machine officer assistant, there are good opportunities to advance to motorman or chief engineer, provided additional education and sea time are completed. Some choose to specialize within shipping companies focusing on specific vessel types, while others progress toward technical management roles onboard. Forecasts from the Employment Service do not provide an exact assessment due to limited data, but the overall outlook within the engineering profession is stable with some competition. Technological development and increased environmental regulations may influence future needs, but those willing to further their education and be flexible will find continued good opportunities.

Frequently asked questions about the machine officer assistant profession

• What does a machine officer assistant earn?
  - The average salary is 45 100 SEK/month, with variations depending on experience, education, and employer.
• What education is required to become a machine officer assistant?
  - High school maritime or technical education, often supplemented with postgraduate studies and certifications.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, men earn an average of 45 700 SEK, while women have a maximum of 39,100 SEK and a minimum of 35,700 SEK.
• What are the job responsibilities of a machine officer assistant?
  - Operation, maintenance, and monitoring of machinery, as well as technical support onboard ships.
• What is the job market outlook for machine officer assistants?
  - There are 412 job openings, but exact forecasts are limited due to limited data.
• What benefits are common in the profession?
  - Per diems, free food and accommodation, overtime pay, and opportunities for further training are typical.
• Can I work abroad as a machine officer assistant?
  - Yes, the profession is international, and opportunities to work on foreign ships are good.