A Ship Engineer is responsible for maintaining, repairing, and operating a ship's mechanical and electrical systems, including propulsion, navigation, power generation, and safety equipment. Ship Engineers ensure that vessels operate safely and efficiently, perform regular inspections, and respond to any mechanical emergencies at sea.
To become a licensed Ship Engineer in the United States, you typically need a bachelor’s degree in marine engineering or a related field, relevant sea service, and must pass the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) Third Assistant Engineer licensure exam. Additional credentials, such as the Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) and Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW), are also often required for employment.