Marine Engineer (NSW)

Marine Engineer (NSW/ACT)

Education and Training:

There are a number of pathways to become a marine engineer. The two main ways are through an Engineer Traineeship or Engineering Cadetship.

To become a Trainee Engineer, you must complete an engineering trade approved by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority. A Trainee Engineer can then become a marine engineer by completing a Certificate of Safety Training followed by at least 36 weeks of qualifying sea service onboard an appropriate vessel. An approved Training Record Book must be completed during the sea service. A Trainee Engineer must also complete an approved VET qualification in marine engineering, specialising in watchkeeping. On completion of the course, having met sea service and legislative requirements, the trainee will be examined by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority for an Engineer Watchkeeping Certificate of Competency. The trainee may then undertake more advanced VET qualifications in marine engineering and gain further seagoing marine engineer qualifications. As subjects and prerequisites can vary between institutions, you should contact your chosen institution for further information.

To become an Engineer Cadet you must complete Year 12 and an Engineer Cadetship approved by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority. This requires the same initial training as an Engineer Trainee, plus completion of a VET qualification in transport and distribution, specialising in marine engineering class 2, and a minimum of 36 weeks of approved workshop trade training. As subjects and prerequisites can vary between institutions, you should contact your chosen institution for further information.

Additional Information:

Applicants must meet the medical health standard required for a seagoing career and pass the eyesight and colour vision tests required by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority.

Related Courses:

While the following courses are related to this occupation, they may not necessarily lead directly to employment, nor provide the most direct pathway to the occupation. Courses which provide preliminary or informal training, as well as those which provide additional job skills following initial qualifications may also be listed.

*Course is offered by more than one institution. Click link for details.

Employment Opportunities:

Marine engineers are employed by shipping companies, including general cargo, container, bulk carrier and tanker companies. Opportunities also exist in the offshore industry, such as on tugs and supply vessels, drilling platforms and government agencies operating dredges and other port maintenance craft.

Fully qualified marine engineers may be able to secure a range of shore-based positions, such as engineering superintendent or marine surveyor. They may also gain employment in the power plants of factories and power stations.

Australian Certificates of Competency may be internationally recognised.