Top 10 Marine Engineer Certifications

Marine engineers are highly sought after professionals in the job market, and certifications can help to set them apart from other candidates. Certifications demonstrate that a marine engineer has the necessary knowledge and skills to safely and effectively operate various types of marine machinery. They also show that the engineer has taken the time to gain additional qualifications in order to stay up-to-date with industry best practices and regulations. In addition, certifications can give an engineer more opportunities for career advancement, as they may be seen as more qualified than those without certifications. Ultimately, certifications are important for marine engineers because they demonstrate their commitment to their profession and can help them stand out in a competitive job market.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Marine Engineers and explain how they can help further a Marine Engineer's career.

What are Marine Engineer Certifications?

Marine engineer certification is a type of professional certification that demonstrates the knowledge, skills and competencies of a marine engineer. It can be obtained by completing an approved course, passing an exam, or through experience. This certification is highly sought after by employers in the maritime industry as it can help to ensure that employees have the necessary qualifications for their job roles.

The certification process typically involves a comprehensive assessment of the individual’s knowledge and skills in subjects such as marine engineering and maintenance, ship design and construction, propulsion systems, and safety procedures. The assessment also covers topics such as risk management and environmental protection. Once certified, marine engineers are able to demonstrate their ability to keep vessels running safely and efficiently.

The benefits of achieving marine engineer certification include improved employment prospects, increased earning potential, access to advanced training opportunities and recognition from peers in the industry. It also allows employers to hire qualified personnel who are better equipped to deal with any technical issues that may arise on board vessels or in other aspects of their business. Certification also provides an additional layer of assurance when hiring new employees or outsourcing services since they know that these individuals have been properly trained and tested for their tasks.

Pro Tip: Make sure you research and understand the requirements for your desired marine engineer certification before beginning the application process. Many certifications require specific education, experience and training that must be completed in order to qualify for the certification. It is also important to make sure you are aware of any fees associated with obtaining a marine engineer certification.

Related: What does a Marine Engineer do?

Top 10 Marine Engineer Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Marine Engineers today.

1. American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) Marine Engineer Certification

American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) Marine Engineer Certification is a certification that is required for engineers who work on ships and other marine vessels. This certification is designed to ensure that the engineer has the necessary knowledge and skills to safely operate, maintain, and repair the vessel's machinery.

The certification process typically takes between two and four years, depending on the engineer's experience level. In order to obtain ABS Marine Engineer Certification, an engineer must first complete a minimum of three years of sea service as an engineering officer in a merchant marine vessel. This includes at least one year of service in a position with responsibility for operating, maintaining, or repairing machinery.

Once these requirements are met, the engineer must then pass an examination administered by ABS. The exam tests the engineer's knowledge of shipboard engineering systems and operations and covers topics such as propulsion systems, auxiliary systems, safety regulations and procedures, electrical systems, navigation systems, etc.

The cost of obtaining ABS Marine Engineer Certification varies depending on where you take the exam. Generally speaking it can range from $300-$1000 USD.

2. Nautical Institute Marine Engineering Certification

The Nautical Institute Marine Engineering Certification is a professional qualification for marine engineers. It is designed to demonstrate the knowledge and skills required to work as a professional marine engineer in the Merchant Navy, Royal Navy, and other maritime industries.

The certification is divided into three levels:

• Level 1: Certificate of Competency (CoC) – This is an entry-level qualification that allows you to work as a junior engineer on board merchant ships.
• Level 2: Advanced Certificate of Competency (ACoC) – This is an intermediate level qualification that allows you to work as a senior engineer on board merchant ships.
• Level 3: Diploma of Professional Competence (DPC) – This is an advanced level qualification that allows you to work as a chief engineer on board merchant ships.

It typically takes between two and four years to complete all three levels of the Nautical Institute Marine Engineering Certification depending on your experience and qualifications. To get the certification, you must first complete all relevant training courses, pass exams, and gain practical experience at sea in order to obtain the necessary certificates of competency from the Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA). You will also need to complete additional training courses in safety management systems, navigation, and engineering operations.

The cost of obtaining the Nautical Institute Marine Engineering Certification varies depending on which level you are aiming for and how many courses you need to take in order to achieve it. Generally speaking, it can range from several hundred pounds up to several thousand pounds.

3. Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers (SNAME) Certified Professional Engineer in Marine Engineering

The Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers (SNAME) Certified Professional Engineer in Marine Engineering (CPE/ME) is a professional certification program that recognizes the highest level of expertise and experience in the field of marine engineering. It is an internationally recognized credential that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge, skills, and abilities related to the design, construction, operation, and maintenance of vessels and other marine structures.

The CPE/ME certification process involves passing a comprehensive written exam administered by SNAME. The exam covers topics such as ship design principles, propulsion systems, electrical systems, fluid mechanics, materials science, and safety regulations. In order to be eligible for the exam, applicants must have at least five years of professional experience in marine engineering or related fields.

It typically takes around two years to complete the certification process from start to finish. During this time, applicants must complete all required coursework and pass the written exam with a score of 80% or higher.

In order to apply for the CPE/ME certification program, applicants must submit an application form along with supporting documents such as transcripts demonstrating their educational background in marine engineering or related fields. Applicants must also pay a fee which varies depending on their country of residence; however it typically ranges from $200 - $400 USD.

Once certified, individuals are able to demonstrate their expertise in the field of marine engineering through their CPE/ME credentials. This can help them gain employment opportunities within maritime industries or advance their career prospects within existing roles.

4. American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Certified Marine Engineer

The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Certified Marine Engineer is a professional certification program for marine engineers. This certification provides an assurance to employers, customers and the public that the holder has demonstrated the knowledge and experience necessary to perform marine engineering work safely and competently.

To become certified, individuals must pass a comprehensive written exam administered by ASME. The exam covers topics such as ship design, propulsion, stability, materials and systems. It also includes questions on safety, environmental protection and regulations related to maritime operations.

It typically takes about six months to prepare for the exam. Candidates should have a good understanding of basic principles of engineering and be familiar with specific marine engineering topics. They should also have a strong grasp of mathematics, physics and chemistry.

To get certified, candidates must first register with ASME and pay a fee of $250 USD plus applicable taxes. After registration is complete, they will receive an information packet containing study materials and instructions on how to prepare for the exam. Once they are ready to take the test, they can schedule it at any one of ASME’s authorized testing centers located throughout the United States.

Upon successful completion of the exam, candidates will receive their ASME Certified Marine Engineer certificate in the mail within two weeks. This certification is valid for five years from the date it was issued and can be renewed by taking another written examination or attending approved continuing education courses offered by ASME or other organizations recognized by them.

5. International Maritime Organization (IMO) Model Course for Marine Engineers

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) Model Course is a training program designed to prepare marine engineers for the challenges of working in the maritime industry. The course covers topics such as ship design, propulsion systems, safety management systems, and environmental protection. It also includes practical exercises and simulations to help students gain experience in applying their knowledge.

The IMO Model Course typically takes between two and four weeks to complete, depending on the amount of material covered. It is offered by a variety of institutions around the world, including universities, maritime academies, and private training centers. To get the course, interested individuals should contact their local maritime training institution or search online for available courses.

The cost of the IMO Model Course varies depending on the institution offering it and other factors such as duration and location. Generally speaking, however, it can range from several hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.

6. National Academy of Science, Engineering and Technology (NASET) Certified Marine Engineer

The National Academy of Science, Engineering and Technology (NASET) Certified Marine Engineer is a professional certification program that recognizes the expertise and qualifications of marine engineers. The certification is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and experience in the field of marine engineering.

To become NASET Certified Marine Engineers, applicants must first meet certain educational requirements, such as having an accredited degree in marine engineering or related field. They must also pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as propulsion systems, ship design, and safety regulations. Once these requirements are met, applicants can apply for the certification.

The process of obtaining the NASET Certified Marine Engineer certification typically takes between six months to one year to complete. During this time, applicants will need to submit their application materials and supporting documents, take the examination, and receive feedback from the organization's review board.

The cost of obtaining the NASET Certified Marine Engineer certification varies depending on the country in which you are applying. Generally speaking, it can range from $500 - $1,000 USD.

7. Royal Institution of Naval Architects (RINA) Registered Marine Engineer

The Royal Institution of Naval Architects (RINA) Registered Marine Engineer is a professional qualification that recognises the knowledge and experience of marine engineers. It is a globally recognised qualification for those working in the maritime industry, and is designed to ensure that marine engineers have the necessary skills and qualifications to carry out their duties safely and effectively.

To become an RINA Registered Marine Engineer, applicants must first complete a minimum of three years’ relevant engineering education or training. This can be through an accredited university or college course, or through an approved apprenticeship scheme. Once this has been completed, applicants must then pass the RINA Professional Examination which tests knowledge in areas such as marine engineering principles, ship design and construction, propulsion systems, safety management systems and more.

The cost of becoming an RINA Registered Marine Engineer varies depending on the route taken to gain the qualification. The cost of studying at an accredited university or college will vary according to institution fees and other costs associated with attending such courses. Apprenticeship schemes may also involve some costs associated with travel and accommodation during training periods. The cost of taking the RINA Professional Examination is £150 for UK residents (£200 for non-UK residents).

In total, it can take up to five years to become an RINA Registered Marine Engineer depending on the route taken to gain the qualification. This includes three years’ relevant engineering education or training followed by two years’ practical experience before taking the RINA Professional Examination.

8. U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credentialing Program

The U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credentialing Program is a federal program that provides credentials to merchant mariners who meet the requirements for service on commercial vessels in the United States. The credentialing process involves an evaluation of a mariner’s qualifications and experience, as well as a physical examination. Once all requirements are met, the mariner will receive either a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) or a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).

The MMC is issued to those who wish to serve aboard commercial vessels operating in U.S. waters and is valid for five years from the date of issuance. The TWIC is issued to those who require unescorted access to secure areas of port facilities and vessels regulated by the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002 (MTSA). It is valid for five years from the date of issuance, but may be renewed before it expires if certain conditions have been met.

The length of time it takes to obtain a Merchant Mariner Credential or TWIC varies depending on individual circumstances, such as how quickly all required documents are submitted and if any additional examinations are needed. Generally, it can take up to three months from start to finish for an individual to receive their credentials once all requirements have been met.

To obtain either credential, applicants must complete an application form, submit proof of identity and citizenship/residency status, provide evidence of sea service (if applicable), pass physical exams, obtain medical certificates (if applicable), and pay associated fees. Applicants may also need additional documents depending on their particular situation; these could include letters of recommendation or other forms related to their specific type of service or vessel they plan on working on.

The cost associated with obtaining a Merchant Mariner Credential or TWIC varies based on several factors including type of service requested and number of endorsements sought after. Generally speaking, fees range from $50-$200 USD per document requested; however, additional costs may apply depending on the individual's situation such as background check fees or medical exam fees which can range from $100-$500 USD depending on location and provider used.

9. International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) Certified Shipyard Professional

The International Association of Classification Societies (IACS) Certified Shipyard Professional is a professional designation that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and expertise in the shipbuilding and repair industry. The IACS Certified Shipyard Professional program is designed to validate the skills and abilities of individuals working in the shipbuilding and repair sector, as well as provide an objective measure of competency for employers.

To obtain the IACS Certified Shipyard Professional designation, applicants must meet certain criteria, including having at least five years' experience in the field and passing a comprehensive exam. The exam covers topics such as safety regulations, materials selection, welding techniques, and other relevant areas. The exam is administered by a third-party organization approved by IACS.

The cost to take the exam varies depending on where it is taken, but typically ranges from $200 to $400 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with obtaining certification materials or taking additional courses.

Once all requirements are met, applicants will receive their IACS Certified Shipyard Professional certificate within two weeks after successful completion of the exam. This certificate is valid for three years before renewal is required. Renewal requires re-taking the exam or completing additional training courses approved by IACS.

10. Institute of Marine Engineering, Science & Technology (IMarEST) Chartered Engineer in Marine Engineering

The Institute of Marine Engineering, Science & Technology (IMarEST) Chartered Engineer in Marine Engineering is a professional qualification for marine engineers. It is awarded to those who demonstrate a high level of competence and knowledge in the field of marine engineering.

To obtain the IMarEST Chartered Engineer qualification, applicants must first complete an approved degree or diploma course in marine engineering, such as an HNC/HND or BEng/BSc. Once this has been achieved, they must then apply to become a member of the IMarEST and pass their Professional Review Examination (PRE). This exam assesses their knowledge and experience in the field of marine engineering.

The PRE consists of two parts: a written examination and an oral presentation. The written examination tests the candidate’s knowledge and understanding of the principles and practices of marine engineering, including topics such as ship design, propulsion systems, electrical systems, stability and safety regulations. The oral presentation requires candidates to present a project that demonstrates their ability to apply their knowledge to practical situations.

Once applicants have passed both parts of the PRE, they are eligible to apply for Chartered Engineer status with IMarEST. This involves completing an application form which includes details about their qualifications and experience in marine engineering. They will also need to provide references from employers or other professionals who can vouch for their abilities.

The cost for becoming a Chartered Engineer with IMarEST varies depending on your country of residence but typically ranges between £500-£1,000 ($650-$1300 USD). The process usually takes around six months from initial application through to receiving your certificate.

Do You Really Need a Marine Engineer Certificate?

The short answer is yes. Marine engineering is a highly technical field and requires specialized knowledge, skills, and qualifications to be successful. It’s important to obtain the necessary training and certification in order to work in the marine engineering industry.

In order to become a certified marine engineer, you must first complete an accredited educational program in marine engineering. This typically includes courses such as mathematics, physics, chemistry, thermodynamics, mechanics and electricity. You will also need to pass a comprehensive examination administered by the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS). Once you have successfully completed your education and passed the exam, you will be eligible for certification as a marine engineer.

Having a marine engineer certificate is essential for obtaining employment in the industry. Most employers require applicants to have this credential in order to qualify for positions such as chief engineer or assistant engineer on vessels. Additionally, many state governments require that engineers possess this credential before they can practice within their jurisdiction.

Finally, having a valid marine engineering certificate demonstrates your commitment and dedication to safety standards and regulations within the maritime industry. This helps ensure that vessels are operated safely and efficiently while meeting all applicable laws and regulations. Ultimately, having this credential can help you stand out from other job seekers when applying for jobs in the field of marine engineering.

Related: Marine Engineer Resume Examples

FAQs About Marine Engineer Certifications

1. What qualifications are needed to become a Marine Engineer?

A: To become a marine engineer, you must have a degree in engineering or technology and typically need to hold professional certificates from the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS), Lloyd’s Register (LR) or Det Norske Veritas (DNV).

2. What is the difference between a Marine Engineer and a Naval Architect?

A: A marine engineer is responsible for the design, construction, operation and maintenance of ships, while naval architects are responsible for the overall design of vessels.

3. How long does it take to get certified as a Marine Engineer?

A: It usually takes two to four years to complete the necessary education and training requirements for certification as a marine engineer.

4. What is required to maintain my Marine Engineer certification?

A: You must maintain your certification by completing continuing education requirements such as attending seminars, taking courses or doing research on maritime topics. You may also need to pass periodic examinations administered by ABS, LR or DNV in order to stay certified.

5. Are there any special requirements for working as a Marine Engineer aboard ships?

A: Yes, you will be required to pass rigorous medical examinations before being allowed to work on board ships and may also have to obtain specific safety certifications such as those provided by STCW (Standards of Training, Certification & Watchkeeping).