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Design, build, and maintain ships, submarines, and offshore platforms. Work for shipbuilders, the US Navy, and offshore energy companies.
$83,010
Lower reported wage
$112,230
Median
$173,330
Upper reported wage
Annual U.S. salaries. Actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience. The lower and upper figures do not represent starting and senior salaries.

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Create free account →BLS groups marine engineers and naval architects; shipboard operator credentials are a separate path. [1]
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U.S. career guide. Program, employer, and state requirements can differ.
Marine Engineers and Naval Architects (17-2121): BLS OEWS May 2025 annual United States median (50th percentile) $112,230. The lower and upper figures are the published 10th and 90th percentiles. They describe the wage distribution, not starting or senior pay. Wage figures reviewed October 27, 2026. Source: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/marine-engineers-and-naval-architects.htm . Employment and growth retain their existing source periods and were not refreshed in this wage review.
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Compare tuition after aid, required supplies and exams, travel, and any unpaid training time for the route you choose.
Planning questions: request a written estimate from each program or sponsor. A total cost has not been verified here.
A related major can be preparation; it does not by itself qualify you for the career.
Direct subject route; seek vessel-system design and testing projects. [1]
Design, test, or maintain ship systems and evaluate performance and safety. [1]
Shipbuilders, design firms, government, and marine equipment companies. [1]
Usually full time; trials or shipyard milestones may require extra hours. [1]
Complex systems, harsh environments, and safety standards require coordinated work. [1]
Experience can lead to lead design, project management, or technical supervision. [1]
These are possible directions. Promotion timing and pay depend on the role and employer.