Ship Engineer Salary 2025: $109,530 Median, How to Start, and Job Outlook
Ship engineers earned a median $109,530 per year, or about $53 an hour, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' latest estimates. The top 10% make up to $165,490; the bottom 10% earn $57,870. That puts this occupation solidly in the six-figure club — but pay varies sharply by state and experience level.
The BLS counted 8,400 ship engineers nationwide in 2024, with most working in deep sea shipping, coastal transport, and the military. It's a niche, high-skill career with slow but steady replacement demand.
How much Ship Engineers earn
The national mean wage for ship engineers is $111,790, or $53.75 per hour. Half of all workers fall between $89,530 (median) and the top earners pulling $165,490. The lowest-paid 10% earn $57,870 or less.
Pay scales with class of vessel and seniority. Entry-level positions typically start on smaller ships or as assistant engineers, while chief engineers on large ocean-going vessels command top-of-range salaries. Union contracts and sea time also influence earnings.
- Median annual wage: $109,530
- Mean annual wage: $111,790
- 10th percentile: $57,870
- 90th percentile: $165,490
Pay by state
Ship engineers earn the most in states with major port activity and strong maritime industries. According to BLS data, the highest-paying state is New York at $133,640 average, followed by Hawaii ($131,640), Florida ($130,480), Texas ($127,810), and Massachusetts ($122,720).
At the other end, pay is lowest in landlocked or smaller maritime states: Michigan ($79,170), Maine ($77,160), and North Carolina ($65,010). Relocation to a coastal hub can significantly boost income.
How to become Ship Engineer
Becoming a ship engineer requires a mix of formal education, licensing, and sea service. The typical path starts with a bachelor's degree in marine engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field from a maritime academy (like SUNY Maritime or Texas A&M Maritime Academy). Some enter through the U.S. Navy or Coast Guard and later transition to civilian roles.
After education, you must earn a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) from the U.S. Coast Guard. Entry-level positions are as a third assistant engineer or junior engineer. Over several years, with accumulated sea time and exams, you can advance to second assistant, first assistant, and chief engineer. Licenses are required for each step.
Key steps include:
1. Complete a maritime academy bachelor's program (or equivalent military training).
2. Pass the Coast Guard exam for a Third Assistant Engineer license.
3. Accumulate at least 365 days of sea service on a vessel.
4. Upgrade licenses via exams and additional sea time.
5. Continue professional development; some roles require STCW endorsements.
- Education: Bachelor's in marine or mechanical engineering (or equivalent military training).
- Licensing: Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with specific engineer license.
- Experience: Entry-level through union apprenticeships or cadet shipping programs.
Job outlook
Employment of ship engineers is projected to grow 1.6% from 2024 to 2034, slower than the average for all occupations. That translates to about 1,100 openings each year, mostly to replace workers who retire or leave the field.
Demand is tied to global trade volumes and domestic shipping activity. While automation may affect some roles, the need for licensed engineers on oceangoing and inland vessels will persist. Military and government sectors also hire a steady number of ship engineers.
Frequently asked questions
What is the average salary for a ship engineer?
The average (mean) salary is $111,790 per year, and the median is $109,530, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
How long does it take to become a ship engineer?
It typically takes 4–7 years: a 4-year maritime engineering degree, followed by at least 365 days of sea service and licensing exams to reach third assistant engineer. Chief engineer roles require more years of experience.
Is ship engineer a good career?
Yes, for those who enjoy working at sea and technical challenges. The pay is above the national median, and job security is decent with steady replacement openings, though growth is slower than average.
Which state pays ship engineers the most?
New York leads with an average salary of $133,640, followed by Hawaii and Florida.
Are ship engineers in demand?
Demand is modest. The BLS projects 1.6% growth over ten years and about 1,100 openings per year, primarily due to retirements.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Ship Engineers data.