Maritime engineering technician

Maritime engineering technicians support the work of maritime engineers in three main areas: offshore engineering, marine engineering and shore-based industries.

Also known as:

• Artificer
• Marine engineering technician
• Ship engineering technician

Work activities

Maritime engineering technicians support the work of maritime engineers. In offshore engineering, maritime engineering technicians may work as support maintenance staff, responsible for the complex equipment that is used on oil and gas wells. The cost of oil and gas production is very high, so it is essential that faulty machinery does not interrupt production. Some maritime engineering technicians lead teams of technicians and mechanics in the regular servicing and maintenance of equipment, as well as in responding to emergency repairs. Maritime engineering technicians may also be involved in the construction and putting into service of fixed and mobile oil platforms and their systems, helping engineers to find solutions to the problems posed by wind, waves, currents and the nature of the seabed.

In marine engineering, maritime engineering technicians are concerned with the construction and operation of a vessel’s propulsion machinery and associated equipment and systems. Sea-going engineering technicians work on a wide variety of vessels, including cargo ships, passenger liners, pipelaying vessels, warships and submarines. In the Royal Navy, maritime engineering technicians work on aircraft carriers, destroyers, frigates (warships), assault ships, mine-counter vessels or submarines anywhere in the world. Maritime engineering technicians are highly skilled, understanding the very complex mechanical, hydraulic, electronic and electrical equipment used by the Navy. Some lead teams of technicians and mechanics. In the Merchant Navy, maritime engineering technicians help engineers to operate and maintain ships’ propulsion machinery. They also help to manage electrical and electronic systems. They may work with on-board services such as passenger lifts and air conditioning systems.

In shore-based industries, some maritime engineering technicians work in shipyards, supervising craft workers. They organise craft workers’ schedules, solve any problems that come up and give advice on how to do particular tasks. They may also be involved in quality control and assurance, checking standards throughout the construction process. They may work in design offices, supporting design engineers, for example, by providing information, revising technical drawings and maintaining computer software. Those maritime engineering technicians who work on ships or sea platforms spend relatively long periods away from home.

Personal qualities and skills

As a maritime engineering technician, you need:

• Strong technical and practical skills.
• An inquisitive, analytical mind.
• The ability to solve problems by using a logical approach with creativity, imagination and an open mind.
• To be willing to keep up to date with advances in technology.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills to work closely with craft workers, other engineering technicians, as well as engineers and specialists from many different areas. Teamwork is especially important if you serve at sea.
• An awareness of health and safety procedures.
• The ability to understand technical plans and drawings.
• A willingness to travel and work at sea for periods of time.
• Strong computer skills to work with a wide range of sophisticated ICT.

Maritime engineering technicians may supervise teams of craft workers or other technicians, so you should have the ability to motivate and encourage others. You may need diving skills if your job involves underwater work.

Pay and opportunities

Salaries for maritime engineering technicians vary depending on the company, role and level of responsibility. The pay rates given are approximate. Maritime engineering technicians earn in the range of £24,000 per year up to £43,000 with experience.

Most maritime engineering technicians work around 40-42 hours a week, Monday to Friday. Early starts, late finishes, and some weekend work may be required. Some maritime engineering technicians have to work shifts.

Employers are firms involved in shipbuilding and ship repair, for example, shipyards, repair yards, and manufacturers and suppliers of marine equipment. Employers in the offshore industry include major oil and gas companies and service/supply companies. There are also opportunities with the Merchant Navy and the Royal Navy.

Self-employment opportunities occur for maritime engineering technicians to become self-employed, usually in engine and equipment repair for small vessels.

Where are vacancies advertised?

Vacancies are advertised in local/national newspapers, trade industry publications, and on the Government’s Find a Job service. Vacancies can also be found through specialist engineering recruitment agencies, internet job boards and the websites of professional engineering bodies and maritime organisations.

Entry routes and training 

A level 3 (advanced) marine engineer apprenticeship is a great place to start. You may also be able to enter employment as a trainee, receiving day- or block-release to go to college part-time. Another entry route is to take a fulltime college course, leading to a relevant A-level or Edexcel (BTEC) National qualification (for example, Engineering) before looking for employment. The Merchant Navy recruits trainee engineers. The Merchant Navy Training Board co-ordinates training and sponsorship schemes. There are several routes of entry to the Royal Navy. Contact the Royal Navy to find out which is the most appropriate route for you.

Qualifications

If you wish to enter this career through an advanced apprenticeship, you will need GCSEs in English and maths, although you may be able to complete these alongside your programme.

Adult opportunities

Age limits: It is illegal for any organisation to set age limits for entry to employment, education or training, unless they can show there is a real need to have these limits, however you should check carefully for regulations around serving in the Royal Navy.

No specific academic qualifications are required.

Training Information on pathways to registration as an Engineering Technician (EngTech) can be found on the Engineering Council’s website.

Related careers

• Boat builder
• Maritime engineer
• Mechanical engineering technician
• Merchant navy engineer officer
• Naval architect
• Offshore engineer