Shipyard engineer

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

A shipyard engineer works with planning, design, production, and maintenance of ships and marine facilities at a shipyard. The role includes developing technical drawings, ensuring that constructions meet safety and environmental standards, and leading projects related to new construction or retrofitting of ships. The work environment is often varied, combining office tasks such as technical analysis and project planning with physical inspections at the shipyard. Daily contact with other engineers, technicians, and skilled workers is common, and tasks may range from optimizing production flows to solving urgent technical problems.

Salary development over time

The salary of shipyard engineers has developed positively over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 41500 kronor per month, increasing to 43 700 kronor in 2023 and to 45 300 kronor in 2024. This represents a total salary increase of approximately 9% during the period. The growth can be explained by continued demand for technical expertise in marine production, where digitalization and new environmental requirements drive the need for specialized engineers. The industry is also influenced by global competition and technological development in shipping, prompting employers to offer competitive salaries to retain and attract the right skills.

Shipyard engineer salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 45 300 kr/month
• Lowest salary: 37,000 kr/month (female, public sector, high school education, 3 years)
• Highest salary: 68,000 kr/month (female, municipal sector, doctoral degree)
• Hourly wage (average): 272 kr
• Gender differences: Men 45 600 kr, Women 43 200 kr (95% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Data on regional differences is unavailable

Education and qualifications

To work as a shipyard engineer, a university degree in mechanical engineering, marine technology, or shipbuilding is usually required. The education often includes practical training at a shipyard or in related industries. Specialized courses in ship design, project management, and environmental technology are advantageous and in demand by many employers. Experience from technical work or trainee programs at a shipyard also provides good opportunities for employment as a shipyard engineer.

• Formal degree: Bachelor or master’s in mechanical engineering/marine technology (3–5 years)
• Certifications: Courses in shipbuilding, project management, and environmental technology
• Internships: Extended internships or trainee programs at a shipyard
• Prerequisites: Science or technical high school education
• Tips for choosing specialization: Focus on marine applications and digital design

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for shipyard engineers include occupational pension, wellness allowance, flexitime, and opportunities for skills development through courses and conferences. Larger employers may also offer bonus programs, subsidized lunches, and sometimes access to corporate healthcare. Expenses and travel for work are reimbursed according to collective agreements, and employers may provide further training in leadership and project management.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a shipyard engineer is significant, especially in regions where the shipbuilding industry is concentrated. The profession is also affected by economic fluctuations and changes in the global shipping market. Digitalization and automation increase demands for technical skills and continuous training, while environmental and sustainability requirements introduce new tasks and responsibilities. The shortage of specialized labor can offer good opportunities for those with the right profile, but it is important to stay updated on new technologies and regulations.

Tips for aspiring shipyard engineers

To succeed as a shipyard engineer, curiosity and a genuine interest in technology and marine environments are beneficial. Precision is crucial, as work involves examining details and meeting safety standards at every stage. Good collaboration and clear communication facilitate project management in cross-functional teams, and problem-solving skills are essential for quickly handling technical challenges that may arise at the shipyard. Flexibility and a willingness to learn continuously make it easier to keep up with rapid industry developments, and a business-minded approach is valued when balancing costs and timelines against quality. Finally, being proactive and independent is advantageous, as many tasks require autonomous decision-making and a proactive attitude.

Key facts about Shipyard Engineer

• Average salary: 45 300 kr/month
• Salary range: 37,000–68,000 kr/month
• Education requirements: Bachelor or master’s in engineering, 3–5 years
• Gender differences: Women earn 95% of men's salary
• Number of available jobs: 564

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years of experience, opportunities open up for roles such as project manager, technical manager, or specialist in areas like sustainability or digital design. Many choose to further their education in leadership or business development to move into more strategic roles. Forecasts from the Employment Service indicate that there is insufficient data for an exact assessment of future prospects for shipyard engineers, but within the group "engineers and technicians in mechanical engineering," demand remains stable. As of May 2024, there were 564 available jobs in this profession, suggesting good career opportunities for those with the right skills and willingness to develop further.

Common questions about Shipyard Engineer

• What is the average salary of a shipyard engineer?
  - A shipyard engineer has an average monthly salary of 45 300.
• How big is the difference between men's and women's salaries?
  - Women earn 95% of what men do, which corresponds to 43 200 for women and 45 600 for men.
• What education is required to become a shipyard engineer?
  - A university or master's degree in mechanical engineering, marine technology, or shipbuilding is usually required.
• Are there good job prospects for shipyard engineers?
  - There are 564 available jobs, indicating a stable job market for shipyard engineers.
• How has the salary development been for shipyard engineers?
  - The salary has increased from 41500 to 45 300 over the past three years.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for shipyard engineers?
  - The highest salary is 68,000 kronor (female, doctoral degree), the lowest is 37,000 kronor (female, high school education).
• Do shipyard engineers mainly work in offices or at the shipyard?
  - The work is a combination of office tasks and inspections at the shipyard.