Career roadmap
How to Become a Ship Engineer
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a ship engineer, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a ship engineer: (1) attend a maritime academy or start as an oiler, (2) earn sea time, (3) pass Coast Guard exams, (4) work as an assistant engineer, (5) upgrade to chief. Most people need about Years of sea time and credentials. BLS lists “postsecondary nondegree award” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a ship engineer
Attend a maritime academy or start as an oiler
Two paths.
Earn sea time
Required.
Pass Coast Guard exams
License.
Work as an assistant engineer
Officer.
Upgrade to chief
Lead.
Education and training requirements
A maritime academy degree or postsecondary program plus a Coast Guard engineering license is typical.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Postsecondary nondegree award |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | Less than 5 years |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | Years of sea time and credentials |
Certifications and licenses
- USCG engineer license: Required.
- STCW certificates: International.
- TWIC: Port access.
- QMED: Rating for engine crew.
Skills to build now
Start with diesel engines, electrical systems, and pumps and piping, and practice problem-solving and leadership. Learning the ship engineer vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Oiler or Cadet: Entry.
- Third Assistant Engineer: Officer.
- First Assistant Engineer: Senior.
- Chief Engineer: Lead.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Ship Engineer training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
Are rotations long?
Often weeks at a time.
How long does it take to become a ship engineer?
Most people need about Years of sea time and credentials of training. A maritime academy degree or postsecondary program plus a Coast Guard engineering license is typical.
Do you need a degree to be a ship engineer?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “postsecondary nondegree award” as the typical entry-level education.
What certifications are available for ship engineers?
Common credentials include USCG engineer license, STCW certificates, TWIC, and QMED. Ship engineers need a U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential with an engineering officer endorsement.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 53-5031 (Ship engineers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Ship engineers (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.