Marine Engineers

Marine engineers usually have a central office from where they do design and project development and management work, and these offices are typically quite pleasant, clean, and climate-controlled. Most engineers, however, spend at least part of their time on a specific work site, such as shipyards, and these sites may be noisy, dusty, and dirty. They also work onboard ships and structures such as oil rigs while testing equipment or assessing the overall operation of a vessel at sea. Marine engineers may also be expected to travel at a moment’s notice if there is a maritime accident or equipment malfunctions.

Engineers typically work 40 hours a week, although their work hours may be irregular. They often work nights and weekends when on project deadlines, attending out-of-town project meetings, participating in equipment tests or test launches of vessels, and responding to emergencies.