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If you’ve searched for a “marine engineer job description,” you’ve probably noticed something:
Most of the articles out there feel like they were written by a robot.
They’re packed with dry bullet points, vague responsibilities, and no real insight into what makes a great marine engineer—or how to attract one.
Here’s the problem:
In a role this technical, this specialized, and this essential to your operation, you can’t afford to post something generic and hope for the best.
Because the best marine engineers aren’t applying to jobs that sound like checklists.
They’re applying to jobs that speak their language—where the mission is clear, the team is competent, and the job post feels like it came from a real company with real standards.
So in this guide, we’ll show you how to write a clear, human, and effective marine engineer job post—one that doesn’t just fill a role, but attracts serious candidates who can keep your vessels running safely, efficiently, and to spec.
👉 Before we dive in, we recommend checking out this full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/ .
It’ll give you the strategic foundation to build a great post—then this article will help you tailor it specifically to marine engineers.
Build a winning team—without the hiring headache. WorkScreen helps you hire fast, confidently, and without second-guessing.
What a Marine Engineer Actually Does - Their Roles
At its core, a marine engineer is responsible for making sure that ships, boats, and other watercraft are mechanically sound and safe to operate. They design, build, test, and maintain the engines, propulsion systems, electrical systems, and other key machinery on board.
But this isn’t just about knowing how to fix a motor.
A great marine engineer knows how to think ahead, prevent breakdowns, troubleshoot fast, and work closely with the crew to keep everything running smoothly—whether that’s on a cargo ship, a cruise liner, or a naval vessel.
They’re part problem-solver, part technician, and part safety officer.
And because they often work in remote or high-pressure environments, soft skills like calm decision-making, strong communication, and situational awareness matter just as much as technical know-how.
If you’re hiring for this role, you’re not just looking for someone who can handle tools.
You’re looking for someone who can handle pressure, think clearly, and take pride in keeping your vessel operational and your crew safe.
Two Great Marine Engineer Job Description Templates
✅ Job Description Template: Experienced Marine Engineer
Job Title: Senior Marine Engineer – Join Our Offshore Ops Team at OceanCore Shipping
📍 Location: Port of Houston, TX
💼 Job Type: Full-Time
💰 Salary: $92,000–$108,000/year (based on experience)
📅 Schedule: 6 weeks on / 6 weeks off rotation
📽️ Meet Your Hiring Manager – Watch this short video from our Fleet Ops Director: [Insert Loom/YouTube Link]
👋 Who We Are
OceanCore Shipping Ltd. is a privately-owned marine logistics company operating a fleet of 12 offshore supply and research vessels across the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic seaboard.
We specialize in high-compliance missions for government, energy, and environmental clients—and we’ve built a reputation for doing things right, even under pressure. Our crews are known for their professionalism, technical precision, and genuine respect for one another.
We’re not the biggest company in the industry, but we’re one of the most trusted—because we invest in our people, our equipment, and our long-term mission: to deliver excellence at sea, safely and sustainably.
🔧 What You’ll Be Doing
As a Senior Marine Engineer, you’ll be the go-to person responsible for the mechanical integrity of your assigned vessel. You’ll lead inspections, perform repairs, and coordinate with both onboard crew and our technical team onshore.
- Oversee all shipboard mechanical, electrical, and propulsion systems
- Run diagnostics and resolve technical issues in real time
- Ensure full compliance with USCG and IMO regulations
- Supervise maintenance cycles and track equipment history
- Support engine room safety, cleanliness, and team coordination
- Mentor and guide junior engineers and deck mechanics
- Complete and submit repair logs, performance reports, and incident records
🎯 What We’re Looking For
- Minimum 5 years of marine engineering experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Marine Engineering or related technical field
- Valid U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential (3rd Assistant Engineer or higher)
- Familiarity with Wartsila, Caterpillar, and MAN propulsion systems a plus
- Strong diagnostic and repair skills
- Ability to lead calmly during onboard emergencies
- Comfortable working in 24/7 offshore environments with rotating schedules
🌟 Why This Role Is a Great Fit
At OceanCore, we don’t just staff our vessels—we build careers. You’ll be joining a company that treats marine engineers as essential leaders onboard, not just mechanics in the engine room.
You’ll get real autonomy, a say in how things run, and a team that backs you up. We promote from within, recognize consistent effort, and believe in hiring professionals we can trust—not people we need to micromanage.
This is your chance to be part of a high-trust, low-ego crew that takes pride in running tight, efficient, and safe operations at sea.
🎁 Perks and Benefits
- Competitive salary: $92,000–$108,000/year
- 6-week rotation schedule with full pay during shore leave
- Full medical, dental, and vision coverage
- Company-covered travel to and from vessel
- Paid certification renewals + training allowance
- Annual performance bonuses
- Access to mental health and wellness support services
- $3,000/year education reimbursement for continued learning
🤝 How to Apply
We respect your time. That’s why we use WorkScreen.io—so you’re evaluated based on strengths, not buzzwords.
Click the link below to complete your short, structured evaluation:
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]
We’ll review every application and keep you updated every step of the way.
✅ Job Description Template: Entry-Level / Trainable Marine Engineer
Job Title: Junior Marine Engineer – We’ll Train You on the Job
📍 Location: Norfolk, VA (In-Port & Coastal Routes)
💼 Job Type: Full-Time
💰 Salary: $58,000–$66,000/year
📅 Schedule: Mon–Fri with occasional weekend shifts for port calls
📽️ Meet Your Future Team – Watch this short video from our Chief Engineer: [Insert Loom/YouTube Link]
👋 Who We Are
HarborLine Vessels is a regional tug and towboat operator supporting commercial ports across the East Coast. Our fleet runs supply runs, cargo shifts, and routine harbor work from Maine to Florida.
We’re a small but experienced team—and we believe in training the next generation of marine engineers the right way. Our philosophy is simple: hire for attitude, train for skill. That’s how we’ve built a loyal, capable team that sticks with us for years.
If you’re mechanically inclined, curious, and excited by the idea of working on the water, this could be your way into the marine industry.
🛠️ What You’ll Be Doing
As a Junior Marine Engineer, you’ll learn on the job, supporting our senior engineering staff with inspections, maintenance, and daily system checks. This is a hands-on role that offers direct mentorship and clear paths to certification.
- Assist with engine room maintenance and equipment checks
- Monitor fuel levels, oil pressure, temperature, and fluid systems
- Support breakdown response and basic repairs under supervision
- Help document maintenance logs and daily reports
- Clean and organize the engine room, tools, and parts
- Shadow and learn from experienced engineers on deck and dockside
- Participate in safety drills and learn maritime protocols
🎯 What We’re Looking For
- High school diploma or GED required
- Strong interest in marine systems, mechanics, or ship operations
- Basic tool knowledge (wrenches, pumps, valves, etc.)
- Willingness to learn, follow safety protocols, and take feedback
- Reliable, team-oriented, and physically fit for shipboard work
- Valid TWIC card (or ability to obtain one)
- Prior experience in mechanical, electrical, or maritime fields is a plus—but not required
🌟 Why This Role Is a Great Fit
If you’ve ever wanted to start a career at sea—but didn’t know where to begin—this is your shot.
We don’t expect you to have everything figured out. What matters to us is your mindset: Are you dependable? Are you eager to learn? Can you work on a team and take responsibility?
This role is perfect for someone who’s mechanically curious, tired of desk jobs, and ready to learn a trade that’s in demand across the world. You’ll be trained by veteran engineers, supported by a stable company, and set on a path toward a lifelong career in marine operations.
🎁 Perks and Benefits
- Competitive starting salary: $58,000–$66,000/year
- On-the-job training with licensed engineers
- Paid STCW basic safety training & certification support
- Weekly in-port rotations (you’ll be home more often than not)
- Full health, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) with company match
- $1,000/year tool and gear allowance
- Up to 15 days paid time off annually
- Clear pathway to promotion after 12 months
🤝 How to Apply
We don’t believe in resumes alone. That’s why we use WorkScreen.io—a fair, modern hiring platform that lets us evaluate your strengths based on potential and mindset, not just experience.
Click the link below to complete your short evaluation:
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]
We respond to every application. If you’re a strong fit, we’ll follow up with next steps and get you connected with our crew.
WorkScreen simplifies the hiring process, helping you quickly identify top talent while eliminating low-quality applications. By saving you countless hours and reducing the risk of bad hires, it empowers you to build a team that delivers results
Breakdown of Why These Marine Engineer Job Posts Work
✅ 1. The Job Titles Are Clear, Specific, and Purposeful
Instead of vague listings like “Marine Engineer” or “Engineering Staff,” each title communicates:
- The seniority level (Senior vs. Junior)
- The industry or environment (Offshore Ops, Tugboat Operator)
- And in one case, a clear selling point: “We’ll Train You on the Job”
This immediately speaks to the right person—and filters out the wrong ones.
✅ 2. The Introductions Feel Human, Not Robotic
Both job posts open with real context about the role—not just a checklist of tasks.
They give candidates a reason to care by highlighting:
- What kind of vessels they’ll be working on
- The company’s approach to operations
- And the kind of team they’ll be joining
This emotional framing attracts thoughtful, values-aligned applicants.
✅ 3. The “Who We Are” Sections Build Trust and Identity
Rather than a generic company overview, each post introduces:
- The type of company (e.g., offshore, regional, private)
- The size and culture of the team
- A clear mission (e.g., safety, mentorship, sustainability)
Candidates want to know what kind of company they’re joining. This section makes it real.
✅ 4. Job Responsibilities Go Beyond Bullet Points
These aren’t just lists of tasks—they’re written in everyday language that connects cause and effect.
Instead of just saying:
“Perform maintenance checks.”
We say:
“You’ll lead inspections, perform repairs, and coordinate with both onboard crew and our technical team onshore.”
This helps applicants visualize the job—and feel its importance.
✅ 5. Requirements Feel Honest and Thoughtful
The senior role lays out expectations clearly: licenses, certifications, and leadership under pressure.
The junior role, however, is intentionally flexible and encouraging. It uses language like:
“Prior experience is a plus—but not required.”
This widens the talent pool without lowering standards. It also invites applicants who are curious and committed—but may not have traditional credentials.
✅ 6. “Why This Role Is a Great Fit” Builds Emotional Buy-In
This section shifts the focus from what you want to what the candidate gets:
- Autonomy and trust in the senior role
- Mentorship and long-term growth in the junior role
It’s not about perks here—it’s about belonging, respect, and pride in the work.
✅ 7. Perks and Benefits Are Detailed and Real
You won’t find vague phrases like “competitive pay” here.
Each post lists specific benefits—from gear stipends to certification coverage to time-off policies—because transparency builds trust, and specificity shows professionalism.
✅ 8. The Video Element Makes the Post Stand Out
Both posts include a short video from the hiring manager or chief engineer.
This does three things:
- Adds credibility (real people, real company)
- Humanizes the process
- Helps top candidates feel the tone of the team before they apply
✅ 9. The Application Process Is Respectful and Modern
Instead of:
“Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted…”
You see:
“We respond to every application.”
“We use WorkScreen to evaluate your strengths, not just resumes.”
This shows candidates they’re not sending their application into a black hole. It also signals that your company takes hiring seriously—and has a system in place to do it well.
Bad Marine Engineer Job Post Example (And Why It Fails)
Job Title: Marine Engineer
Company: Global Marine Services
Location: Various Locations
Salary: Not Disclosed
Type: Full-Time
Job Summary:
Global Marine Services is seeking a marine engineer to manage vessel operations and ensure all mechanical systems are functioning properly. This role involves maintaining engines, pumps, HVAC systems, and other onboard systems. The ideal candidate should be able to work in fast-paced environments and be available to travel frequently.
Responsibilities:
- Maintain and repair onboard systems
- Monitor fuel consumption and propulsion systems
- Comply with maritime safety standards
- Complete documentation and reports
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in marine engineering or similar
- 3+ years of experience
- Must be available for international travel
- Good communication skills
How to Apply:
Email your resume and cover letter to careers@globalmarineservices.com.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
🧯 Why This Job Post Fails
🚫 1. Generic, Vague Job Title
“Marine Engineer” tells us nothing about the level, type of vessel, or nature of the operation.
There’s no detail to help a candidate self-identify—or get excited about the opportunity.
🚫 2. The Company Feels Faceless
“Global Marine Services” gives no context or identity.
There’s no culture, no values, no mission. It reads like a placeholder—not a team.
🚫 3. No Emotional Hook in the Intro
The summary is cold and purely functional:
“Seeking a marine engineer to manage vessel operations…”
This intro could apply to any company, anywhere. It doesn’t tell us why this role exists or why it matters.
🚫 4. Responsibilities Are Broad and Dull
- No mention of vessel type
- No detail on tools, systems, or team structure
- No sense of day-to-day challenges
This makes it impossible for a candidate to picture themselves in the role.
🚫 5. Requirements Are Bare Minimum
This list lacks thought:
“Good communication skills”
“Available for international travel”
It reads like someone copied a standard template. There’s no clarity on licenses, certifications, or critical soft skills.
🚫 6. No Salary or Perks
Leaving out compensation feels outdated and evasive. It suggests:
- Either the salary is low
- Or the company doesn’t value transparency
It also fails to mention any benefits, time-off policies, or growth paths.
🚫 7. Cold, Dismissive Call to Action
“Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.”
This kind of language pushes good candidates away. It signals a company that doesn’t respect applicants’ time or effort.
⚠️ Bottom Line:
This post might technically be “complete,” but it’s completely uninspiring.
It checks boxes, but it doesn’t connect.
Strong candidates will scroll past it. Curious candidates won’t bother applying. And the ones who do? Probably not your ideal fit.
Bonus Tips to Make Your Job Post Stand Out
Want to attract serious marine engineering talent—not just anyone with a license?
These small additions can make a big difference in how your post is received and how much trust it builds from the start:
✅ Tip 1: Add a Candidate Security & Privacy Notice
Job scams are on the rise, especially in technical roles like marine engineering. A simple security disclaimer shows professionalism and makes applicants feel safe.
Example:
“⚠️ Important Notice: We take the privacy of all applicants seriously. We will never ask for payment, banking information, or personal financial details during any stage of the hiring process.”
This reassures candidates that your process is legitimate and secure.
✅ Tip 2: Mention Time-Off or Leave Days (Even If Modest)
Even highly motivated engineers care about rest. If you offer structured leave—especially in rotational roles—call it out clearly.
Example:
“Enjoy 6-week-on / 6-week-off rotations with full pay during shore leave.”
or
“Full-time roles come with up to 15 days paid time off annually, so you can recharge.”
That one line could be the difference between a candidate applying—or skipping.
✅ Tip 3: Highlight Training and Growth Opportunities
Whether you’re hiring junior engineers or promoting from within, growth-minded candidates want to see that you invest in people.
Example:
“We cover the cost of renewing your certifications and offer an annual training stipend so you can grow your skills on and off the water.”
This shows that you’re not just hiring for today—you’re building long-term careers.
✅ Tip 4: Add a Short Video (Even a Loom is Fine)
A 60-second video from your Chief Engineer, Fleet Director, or HR Lead adds instant credibility. It doesn’t need to be fancy—it just needs to be human.
Why it works:
- Makes your post stand out visually
- Adds personality and warmth
- Helps candidates imagine working with your team
If you’re serious about attracting top talent, this is one of the highest-ROI additions you can make to a job post.
Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4
Should You Use AI to Write a Marine Engineer Job Post?
Let’s be real—AI is everywhere.
Tools like ChatGPT, Jasper, and even built-in ATS features (like Manatal or Workable) can generate job descriptions in seconds.
But here’s the problem:
If you let AI write your job post from scratch, it’ll sound like every other bland post online.
🚫 Why You Shouldn’t Rely on AI Alone
When you give AI a prompt like:
“Write a marine engineer job description for me.”
You’ll probably get something like this:
“The candidate will be responsible for ensuring the smooth operation of all onboard systems including propulsion, HVAC, and auxiliary equipment…”
Technically correct.
But emotionally flat.
It doesn’t say anything about your company. It doesn’t connect. It doesn’t convert.
Here’s what happens when you rely on AI alone:
- ❌ You end up with posts that feel lifeless and corporate
- ❌ You attract generic candidates—not the passionate ones
- ❌ You miss a chance to show your company’s values and identity
✅ How to Use AI the Right Way (The Smart Recruiter’s Method)
AI isn’t the problem. Using it without your input is.
If you feed it the right ingredients, it can help you refine your writing, improve flow, and fix formatting. Just don’t outsource your thinking.
Here’s how to do it right:
🔧 Smart AI Prompt for a Marine Engineer Job Post:
“Help me write a job post for our company, OceanCore Shipping Ltd. We’re hiring a [Senior Marine Engineer] to support our offshore supply vessels. Our culture is hands-on, safety-focused, and built around mutual respect.
We’re looking for candidates who are calm under pressure, strong problem-solvers, and confident with propulsion and power systems.
We offer:
- $92,000–$108,000/year
- 6-week rotation with full paid shore leave
- Paid certifications
- Travel expenses covered
- Full health and dental
Here’s a rough draft of what I’ve written so far:
[Paste your version here]
Can you help me clean up the tone and organize it better—without losing the human element?”
You’ll get a post that sounds like you wrote it—just better structured and smoother.
That’s how AI should be used in hiring: to polish your voice, not replace it.
Don’t let bad hires slow you down. WorkScreen helps you identify the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free.
Copy-Paste Marine Engineer Job Description (Use This as a Starting Point)
✅ Option 1: Culture-First, Conversational Style
Job Title: Marine Engineer – Join Our Offshore Operations Crew
📍 Location: [Location]
💼 Type: [Job Type]
💰 Salary: [Salary Range]
📅 Schedule: [Work Rotation or Hours]
📽️ Meet the Team – Watch this quick intro from our hiring manager: [Insert Loom Link]
👋 Who We Are
At [Company Name], we operate a diverse fleet of vessels serving [insert region or client type—e.g., offshore logistics, cargo, environmental research].
We’re a company that values safety, accountability, and teamwork—and we take pride in running tight, well-maintained operations at sea.
We don’t just hire for experience—we hire for mindset. If you’re the kind of marine engineer who takes ownership, solves problems under pressure, and works well with a tight-knit crew, you’ll thrive here.
🔧 What You’ll Be Doing
- Maintain and troubleshoot propulsion and onboard systems
- Conduct engine room inspections and complete maintenance logs
- Respond to mechanical issues and lead in-voyage repairs
- Ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations
- Collaborate with deck crew and technical team onshore
- Support and train junior engineers when needed
🎯 What We’re Looking For
- years of marine engineering experience
- Relevant certifications or licenses (e.g., STCW, USCG credentials)
- Strong knowledge of shipboard systems
- Calm under pressure, confident decision-maker
- Team player with solid communication skills
🌟 Why This Role Is a Great Fit
- We respect our crew and promote from within
- You’ll get autonomy, clear expectations, and zero micromanagement
- You’ll join a team that works hard, supports each other, and gets the job done right
🎁 Perks and Benefits
- Competitive salary + performance bonus
- Paid leave or rotation cycles
- Health and dental insurance
- Paid certifications and gear allowance
- Travel expenses covered
- Career development and promotion paths
📥 How to Apply
We use WorkScreen.io to make hiring faster and fairer.
Click the link below to complete your short, structured evaluation:
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]
We’ll review every application and keep you updated throughout the process.
🧱 Option 2: Classic Job Brief + Responsibilities + Requirements Format
Job Title: Marine Engineer
Company: [Company Name]
Location: [Location]
Job Type: [Job Type]
Salary: [Salary Range]
Job Brief
[Company Name] is hiring a Marine Engineer to oversee the maintenance, repair, and performance of onboard mechanical systems across our vessels. You’ll play a key role in keeping our operations compliant, efficient, and safe.
Responsibilities
- Monitor and maintain mechanical, propulsion, and auxiliary systems
- Conduct routine inspections and scheduled maintenance
- Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues
- Maintain engine room logs and compliance records
- Coordinate with ship crew and onshore tech teams
- Follow all safety, regulatory, and environmental standards
Requirements
- Degree or certification in Marine Engineering or related field
- years experience in marine operations
- Familiarity with [Insert Engine Types or Systems]
- Relevant maritime licenses (e.g., STCW, USCG credentials)
- Strong problem-solving and communication skills
- Comfortable working in offshore or rotating environments
📥 How to Apply
We use WorkScreen.io to evaluate applicants based on skills—not just resumes.
Click the link below to complete your short, structured evaluation:
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Link]
Every application is reviewed, and we’ll keep you informed throughout the process.
Let WorkScreen Handle the Next Step in Your Hiring Process
You’ve written a clear, compelling job description that speaks directly to the kind of marine engineer you want to hire.
Now comes the hard part: figuring out who’s actually qualified—and who just sounds good on paper.
That’s where WorkScreen.io comes in.
WorkScreen helps you:
✅ Quickly identify your most promising candidates
WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard—making it easy to spot top talent, save time, and make smarter, data-driven hiring decisions.
✅ Easily administer one-click skill tests
With WorkScreen, you can administer one-click skill tests to assess candidates based on real-world ability—not just credentials like résumés and past experience. This helps you hire more confidently and holistically.
✅ Eliminate low-effort applicants (including AI-generated ones)
WorkScreen automatically eliminates low-effort applicants who use AI Tools to apply, copy-paste answers, or rely on “one-click apply.” This way, you focus only on genuine, committed, and high-quality candidates—helping you avoid costly hiring mistakes.
💡 The result?
You spend less time screening, make smarter hiring decisions, and build your team with confidence.
Ready to hire the right marine engineer? Create a job post with WorkScreen today and streamline your next hire:
FAQ
When hiring a marine engineer, look for a balance of technical competence and operational mindset. Key skills include:
- Mechanical and diagnostic ability – especially with propulsion, hydraulics, and power systems
- Preventive maintenance knowledge – not just fixing things, but preventing failures
- Familiarity with maritime regulations – like IMO, USCG, or STCW standards
- Calm decision-making under pressure – essential in isolated or emergency situations
- Team collaboration – since engineers work closely with both deck crew and shore-based techs
- Documentation skills – accurate logs, compliance reporting, and incident records
Soft skills like adaptability, initiative, and safety-first thinking are also crucial—especially on smaller or offshore vessels where autonomy matters.
Marine engineer salaries vary widely depending on experience, vessel type, region, and rotation schedules. Here’s a general overview (based on U.S. data as of 2025):
- Entry-level / Junior Marine Engineers: $50,000–$70,000/year
- Mid-level Engineers (3–5 years): $75,000–$95,000/year
- Senior / Chief Engineers (offshore or international): $100,000–$140,000/year
- Rotation-based offshore roles often offer paid time off during leave, which adds indirect value
Keep in mind: engineers with offshore certifications or experience with specialized vessels (e.g., tankers, research ships) often command higher salaries.
Yes—most marine engineers must hold valid certifications depending on the waters and vessels they work on. For example:
- STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping) – required for most international roles
- USCG Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) – for U.S.-based engineers
- COC (Certificate of Competency) – for licensed engineers in many countries
Always confirm licensing requirements based on vessel class, jurisdiction, and role seniority.
A marine engineer focuses on the operation, maintenance, and repair of ship systems—engines, pumps, electricals, and more.
A naval architect, on the other hand, is involved in the design, construction, and structural integrity of the vessel itself.
Put simply: naval architects design the ship; marine engineers keep it running.
