Marine Engineers and Naval Architects: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 8,440 marine engineers and naval architects, and they earn a median of $105,670/year. The range runs from $80K to $168K. District of Columbia pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level marine engineers and naval architects start around $80K. The gap between that and the median ($106K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $168K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $167K | 400 |
| California | $129K | 200 |
| Texas | $128K | 570 |
| Maryland | $122K | 320 |
| South Carolina | $120K | 80 |
| Florida | $118K | 600 |
| New Jersey | $110K | 30 |
| New York | $109K | N/A |
| Washington | $107K | 330 |
| Louisiana | $107K | 80 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a marine engineers and naval architects make?▼
The median marine engineers and naval architects salary in the United States is $105,670 per year ($51/hour). Entry-level positions start around $79,700, while experienced professionals earn up to $167,660.
What education do you need to become a marine engineers and naval architects?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for marine engineers and naval architects?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for marine engineers and naval architects.
What are the highest paying states for marine engineers and naval architects?▼
The highest paying states for marine engineers and naval architects are District of Columbia ($166,750), California ($128,750), Texas ($128,470), Maryland ($121,890), South Carolina ($119,990). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.