Mechanical trainee, shipping

What does an engine cadet in shipping do? – Tasks and work environment

An engine cadet in shipping assists chief engineers and engineering officers onboard ships. Tasks include monitoring, operating, maintaining, and performing basic repairs and daily inspections of machinery. The cadet often participates in routine checks, lubrication, cleaning, and troubleshooting of machinery. The work environment can be noisy, hot, and sometimes cramped, where safety procedures and attention to detail are crucial for both personal and crew safety.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for an engine cadet in shipping has shown positive growth. In 2022, the average monthly salary was 36,500 SEK, increasing to 37 900 SEK in 2023 – a rise of approximately 3.8%. In 2024, the average salary is 39 400 SEK, representing a further increase of about 4% from the previous year. This steady salary increase can be partly explained by the growing need for technically skilled personnel onboard and general wage adjustments in the shipping industry. The trend indicates continued stable demand, providing good opportunities for newly graduated engine cadets to establish and grow in the profession.

Engine cadet shipping salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 39 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 25,600 SEK/month (women, municipal sector, 3-year high school education)
• Highest salary: 41,000 SEK/month (men, private sector employee, 3+ years post-secondary education)
• Hourly wage: 237 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 98% of what men do (men: 39 500 SEK, women: 38 500 SEK)
• Regional differences: Data not available

Education and qualifications

To work as an engine cadet in shipping, a high school education with a maritime focus is usually required, often followed by onboard internship. The training provides basic knowledge in mechanical engineering, safety, maintenance, and seamanship. Additional certifications or courses may be necessary to meet international standards and employer requirements.

• High school education: Maritime program with a focus on machinery (3 years)
• Internship: Onboard practical training during education, often 6–12 months
• Certificates: STCW certification (international standard for maritime safety)
• Pre-knowledge: Technical interest and basic mathematics/physics
• Tip: Choose schools with established contacts to shipping companies for good internship opportunities

Common benefits and compensations

Engine cadets in shipping are often offered benefits such as free meals and accommodation during voyages, as well as access to wellness allowances and health insurance. In addition to base salary, overtime pay, travel allowances, and extra pay for working during unsociable hours may apply, especially on longer trips or irregular schedules. Some shipping companies also offer training support and opportunities for further development within the company.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as an engine cadet in shipping is assessed as moderate, with a balance between supply and demand on the job market. Technical competence, precision, and the ability to work in teams under pressure are required. Challenges include long periods at sea, shift work, and physically demanding environments. Technological advances and increased automation also demand continuous skill development. Despite these challenges, the profession is attractive for those seeking variety and international experience.

Tips for aspiring engine cadets in shipping

To succeed as an engine cadet in shipping, it’s beneficial to show early technical interest and a strong desire to work practically. Precision is critical, especially in troubleshooting and maintenance, so practicing following instructions and safety procedures during education is advisable. The ability to collaborate and communicate clearly with colleagues onboard, especially during shifts and under pressure, facilitates the work. Flexibility and resilience are important when work shifts are long or unexpected problems arise. Actively seeking internships with reputable shipping companies provides valuable contacts and experience. Engagement in continuous learning and a positive attitude towards new technical solutions are also appreciated qualities. Finally, demonstrating responsibility in all aspects, from work environment to documentation, often leads to quicker advancement onboard.

Key facts about engine cadet in shipping

• Education level: High school diploma with maritime focus
• Work environment: Ship environment, often noisy and technically advanced
• Work pattern: Shift work with periods at sea
• Demand: Moderate, 481 job openings in the profession
• Special skills: STCW certification and mechanical engineering

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as an engine cadet in shipping, opportunities arise to advance to motorman, engineering officer, or technical chief onboard. Many choose to further their education or obtain certifications to qualify for higher positions within shipping companies or on land, such as operations technician or maintenance manager. According to the Employment Service’s forecasts for maintenance mechanics and repair technicians, demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, with a balanced recruitment situation and approximately 481 job openings nationally. This indicates stable future prospects for those seeking a long-term career in shipping and engineering.

Frequently asked questions about engine cadets in shipping

• What does an engine cadet in shipping earn?
  - An engine cadet in shipping has an average salary of 39 400 SEK per month.
• What education is required to become an engine cadet in shipping?
  - High school education with a maritime focus and onboard internship are required, along with STCW certification.
• Are there differences in salary between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 98% of what men do in the profession.
• What are the future prospects for engine cadets in shipping?
  - The outlook is stable with moderate job opportunities and unchanged demand according to the Employment Service.
• What tasks does an engine cadet perform on a ship?
  - Monitoring, operation, maintenance, and simple repairs of ship engines and technical systems.
• What benefits are usually included in the profession?
  - Free meals and accommodation, overtime pay, wellness allowance, and sometimes training support are often offered.
• What is needed to advance in the profession?
  - Further education, experience, and certifications provide opportunities to advance to higher positions onboard.