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Transportation · Virginia

How to Become a Ship Engineers in Virginia

Ship Engineers in Virginia earn a median salary of $81,970/year, which is 19% below the national average. Virginia has a state income tax of ~5.1%. After taxes and rent, a ship engineers takes home approximately $3,743/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$82K
Median salary in Virginia
-19%
vs. national average
5.1%
State income tax
1,370
Employed in Virginia

What a ship engineers can afford in Virginia

Gross annual salary$81,970
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 5.1% state tax)$5,155/mo
Median 2BR rent (Virginia)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home27.4% (within guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$81,970/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$3,743/mo

Becoming a ship engineers in Virginia

1

Meet education requirements

Ship Engineers positions in Virginia typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Virginia. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many ship engineers positions in Virginia require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Virginia licensure or certification

Virginia may require specific licensing or professional certification for ship engineerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Virginia Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Virginia

Virginia employs 1,370 ship engineers. The highest concentrations are in Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk.

Ship Engineers salary by metro area in Virginia

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk$80K$38.24/hr1,340

Ship Engineers salary range in Virginia

10th percentile (entry)
$45K
25th percentile
$56K
Median (50th)
$82K
75th percentile
$110K
90th percentile (senior)
$137K
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Full ship engineers salary breakdown in Virginia
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a ship engineers make in Virginia?

The median ship engineers salary in Virginia is $81,970 per year ($39.41/hr). This is 19% below the national median of $101,320. Salaries range from $45,050 to $137,400.

What are the requirements to become a ship engineers in Virginia?

Ship Engineers positions in Virginia typically require No formal educational credential. Virginia may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Virginia licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a ship engineers afford to live in Virginia?

At the median salary of $81,970, a ship engineers in Virginia would take home approximately $5,155/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 27.4% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for ship engineers in Virginia?

The highest paying metro areas for ship engineers in Virginia are Virginia Beach-Chesapeake-Norfolk ($79,540). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Virginia have state income tax for ship engineers?

Yes, Virginia has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.1%. On a $81,970 salary, this means roughly $4,197/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.