Becoming An Engineer On A Boat: A Step-By-Step Guide

Marine engineering is a sought-after career path that has seen a recent surge in popularity due to the growth of the industry and the increase in commercial activities at sea. Marine engineers are responsible for the operation, maintenance and repair of all mechanical, electrical, electronic, hydraulic, pneumatic and structural systems on board a boat, yacht or ship. To become a marine engineer, you will need a combination of education, training and experience. This includes obtaining a bachelor's degree in marine engineering, naval engineering, naval architecture or a related field, gaining practical experience through internships or cadetships, and obtaining the relevant licences and certifications.

Get a bachelor's degree in marine engineering or a related field

To become an engineer on a boat, you'll typically need a Bachelor's Degree in Naval Engineering, Naval Architecture, Marine Engineering, or a related field. Look for accredited maritime colleges or universities that offer relevant programs.

When researching undergraduate marine engineering programs, ensure that the program has accreditation from the Accreditation Board of Engineering and Technology. This ensures that you receive a quality education that meets industry standards.

As a marine engineering student, you will primarily take math and science courses that teach you the fundamentals of naval construction and various types of engineering. Some of the topics covered in a marine engineering major include:

• Environmental science
• Naval architecture fundamentals
• Electronic navigation systems
• Safety controls for engineering
• Naval vocabulary and jargon

If you are specifically interested in becoming a yacht engineer, there are two main routes to enter the field: the Commercial Shipping Route and the Yacht Certification Route.

The Commercial Shipping Route typically involves a sponsored cadetship with a shipping company, which provides a combination of study and work experience. After about three years, candidates earn the Officer of the Watch (Engineering) or 'EOOW' ticket, along with an HND or BSc Degree in Marine Engineering or a similar field. With this qualification, you can apply for junior engineering officer roles on large yachts, typically starting as a 3rd Engineer.

The Yacht Certification Route is more yacht-specific and consists of several key certificates:

• The Approved Engine Course (AEC)
• The Marine Engine Operators Licence (MEOL)
• Y-Tickets (Y4 to Y1), which allow engineers to work as Chief Engineers on yachts with varying tonnage and propulsion power limits

Obtaining a bachelor's degree in marine engineering or a related field is a crucial step towards becoming an engineer on a boat. It provides you with the necessary knowledge, skills, and qualifications to enter this exciting and challenging career path.

Gain practical experience through internships or trainee roles

Gaining Practical Experience Through Internships or Trainee Roles

Gaining practical experience through internships or trainee roles is a crucial step in becoming an engineer on a boat, providing an opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in a real-world setting. Here are some ways to achieve this:

• Internships during Undergraduate Studies: While pursuing your bachelor's degree, seek internship opportunities that offer insight into the day-to-day work of marine engineers. These internships can be found in various sectors, including energy companies, design firms, shipbuilding companies, the military, or leisure water travel companies like cruise lines or yacht developers.
• Trainee or Assistant Engineer Roles: After completing your degree, gain practical experience as a trainee or assistant engineer on board a ship. In the US, the United States Coast Guard (USCG) requires ship engineers to meet certain licensing requirements, which include gaining sea service experience. The duration of this experience varies depending on the license level sought (e.g., Third Assistant Engineer, Second Assistant Engineer, or Chief Engineer).
• Cadetship Programs: Consider applying for cadetship programs, which are typically sponsored by shipping companies in partnership with maritime training providers. These programs offer a combination of study and work experience, usually lasting around three years. Upon completion, you will earn certifications such as the Officer of the Watch (Engineering) or 'EOOW' ticket, along with a degree in Marine Engineering or a similar field. This route provides a fast-track to gaining sea time and working on larger vessels, ultimately leading to opportunities on mega and superyachts.
• Yacht Certification Route: If you are specifically interested in yacht engineering, there is a yacht-based certification route that includes key certificates such as the Approved Engine Course (AEC) and the Marine Engine Operators Licence (MEOL). These courses provide a more specialized focus on yacht engineering and include practical workshops and sea service requirements.
• Entry-Level Marine Engineering Roles: Apply for entry-level marine engineering positions to gain on-the-job experience. Your first role will likely be under the supervision of a senior engineer, allowing you to develop your skills and knowledge in a practical setting.
• Apprenticeships: In some cases, you may be able to start as a marine engineering technician with organizations like the Merchant Navy or Royal Navy and then pursue a marine engineering degree while working. Apprenticeships can provide a valuable pathway to gaining practical experience and further training in the field.

Gaining practical experience through internships, cadetships, or entry-level roles is essential for developing the skills needed to become an engineer on a boat. It allows you to apply your theoretical knowledge, build confidence, and make valuable connections in the industry.

Pass the Fundamentals of Engineering exam

Passing the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam is a crucial step in becoming a licensed professional engineer. The FE exam is the first of two examinations that engineers must pass to become licensed as a Professional Engineer (PE) in the United States. Here are some essential details and instructions to help you prepare for and pass the FE exam:

Understanding the FE Exam

The FE exam is designed for recent graduates and students who are close to finishing an undergraduate engineering degree from an EAC/ABET-accredited program. It covers most topics typically included in an undergraduate engineering curriculum. The exam consists of 110 questions and is administered via a computer-based test with a total appointment time of 6 hours. This includes a nondisclosure agreement, a tutorial, the exam itself, and a scheduled break.

Eligibility and Requirements

The FE exam is open to anyone with a degree in engineering or a related field, as well as students currently enrolled in the final year of an ABET-accredited engineering degree program. Some states also allow those with relevant work experience or ABET-accredited "Engineering Technology" degrees to take the exam.

Exam Disciplines

When applying for the FE exam, you must choose one of the following seven fields to be tested in:

• Chemical
• Civil
• Electrical and Computer
• Environmental
• Industrial and Systems
• Mechanical
• Other Disciplines

Preparation and Study Tips

To prepare for the FE exam, it is essential to review the exam specifications, fees, and requirements. Familiarize yourself with the reference materials and understand the scoring and reporting system. Stay up to date with the FE exam pass rates to gauge the level of difficulty. Since the exam covers a wide range of topics, focus your studies on the specific discipline you have chosen.

Exam Day Expectations

On the day of the exam, you will be provided with an electronic copy of the reference handbook compiled by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES). This is the only reference material allowed during the exam. The exam is offered year-round at NCEES-approved Pearson Vue test centers, and you can take it up to three times per year.

Results and Retakes

The FE exam results are based on the total number of correct answers, and a scaled score is calculated. If you do not pass, the NCEES will provide a diagnostic report to help you identify areas that need improvement. You can retake the exam up to three times per year.

Passing the FE exam is a significant milestone in your journey to becoming a licensed professional engineer. It demonstrates your mastery of fundamental engineering principles and paves the way for further career advancement.

Obtain an engineering license

To obtain an engineering license, there are several steps you must follow. First, you need to complete a four-year college degree in engineering from a program accredited by the Accreditation Board of Engineering and Technology. While pursuing your degree, it is beneficial to apply for internship opportunities that will give you practical experience in marine engineering and help you decide if this career path is right for you.

After graduating, the next step is to take the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam, which is a general engineering exam that assesses your ability to apply engineering fundamentals in a real workplace setting. Passing this exam is crucial for becoming a licensed engineer.

Following that, you will need to gain work experience. To be eligible for a license, you must work under a licensed Professional Engineer for at least four years. This period allows you to develop your skills and gain practical knowledge in the field.

Once you have fulfilled the work experience requirement, you can apply for your engineering license by taking the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam. This exam is specific to naval architecture and marine subjects and lasts about eight hours. It covers various topics, including hydrostatics, hydrodynamics, structural design, equipment selection, and power generation.

By completing these steps, you will be well on your way to obtaining your engineering license and starting your career as a marine engineer.

Pursue additional certifications and continuing education

Pursuing additional certifications and continuing your education is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it enhances your skills and knowledge, keeping you updated with the latest advancements in ship engineering. Secondly, it demonstrates your proficiency in different aspects of marine engineering and your commitment to professional development. Here are some specific ways to pursue additional certifications and continuing education in the field of marine engineering:

• Naval Engineering Certificate: This certificate demonstrates your proficiency in naval engineering, which includes designing ships, boats, and other watercraft, as well as creating structures, machines, and equipment related to marine activities.
• Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW) for Seafarers: STCW certifications are essential for working on international voyages. They include basic safety training, advanced firefighting, medical care, and more. The Marine Engineering (MENG) program, for example, prepares graduates to meet STCW requirements to work as licensed engineering officers.
• Transportation Worker Identification Credential: This credential is worth pursuing as it is required for certain positions in the maritime industry and serves as proof of your competency and reliability.
• Merchant Shipping Builder's Certificate: This certificate is specifically for those involved in building and designing ships and other watercraft.
• Yacht Certification Route: If you want to work on yachts, this route consists of six key certificates, including the Approved Engine Course (AEC) and the Marine Engine Operators Licence (MEOL). These certificates allow you to work as a Chief Engineer on yachts of varying sizes and power capacities.
• Specialize in specific areas: As you gain experience, consider specializing in electrical systems, propulsion, or automation. This will make you more valuable in those specific areas and open up new career opportunities.
• Join professional organizations: Joining industry organizations provides access to networking opportunities, resources, and support throughout your career. These organizations often offer workshops, seminars, and other educational programs to help you stay up-to-date with industry developments.
• Pursue graduate studies: Consider earning a master's or doctoral degree in marine engineering or a related field. This can open doors to more advanced positions, such as senior management roles or research and development.

Remember, the field of marine engineering is constantly evolving, so staying up-to-date with the latest advancements and regulations is essential for your career development and success.

Frequently asked questions