Ship Engineers: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 8,580 ship engineers, and they earn a median of $101,320/year. The range runs from $57K to $162K. Maryland pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level ship engineers start around $57K. The gap between that and the median ($101K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $162K, 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Maryland | $171K | 100 |
| Massachusetts | $136K | 90 |
| California | $135K | 430 |
| New York | $132K | 600 |
| Rhode Island | $124K | 40 |
| Texas | $122K | 870 |
| New Jersey | $117K | 170 |
| Illinois | $112K | 130 |
| Florida | $111K | 910 |
| Hawaii | $110K | 60 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a ship engineers make?▼
The median ship engineers salary in the United States is $101,320 per year ($49/hour). Entry-level positions start around $56,620, while experienced professionals earn up to $162,370.
What education do you need to become a ship engineers?▼
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 ship engineers?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for ship engineers.
What are the highest paying states for ship engineers?▼
The highest paying states for ship engineers are Maryland ($170,630), Massachusetts ($136,260), California ($134,660), New York ($131,650), Rhode Island ($123,700). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.