Marine Salvage Engineer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an age defined by its technological advancement, the demand for Marine Salvage Engineers has never been higher.

As marine operations evolve, the need for skilled professionals who can design, manage, and ensure the safety of salvage operations continues to increase.

But what exactly is expected from a Marine Salvage Engineer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker looking to understand the specifics of this role,
• A hiring manager drafting the perfect job description,
• Or simply fascinated by the world of marine salvage engineering,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Marine Salvage Engineer job description template, crafted for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Marine Salvage Engineer Duties and Responsibilities

Marine Salvage Engineers play a critical role in developing, planning, and executing salvage operations.

They have a strong understanding of the structural integrity of marine vessels, the physics of sinking, and the methods to re-float or recover sunken vessels.

Their job responsibilities and duties include:

• Assessing the condition and structural integrity of distressed or sunken vessels
• Designing, planning, and implementing salvage operations
• Working closely with other professionals like divers, boat crew, and heavy equipment operators during salvage operations
• Performing calculations and simulations to evaluate the feasibility of salvage plans
• Ensuring adherence to safety procedures and protocols during salvage operations
• Developing and presenting technical reports and findings
• Designing and modifying equipment used for salvage operations
• Conducting environmental assessments to minimize ecological impact
• Collaborating with legal and insurance professionals to assess damage and claim settlements

 

Marine Salvage Engineer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a highly-skilled Marine Salvage Engineer to join our team.

The Marine Salvage Engineer will be responsible for designing, planning, and overseeing salvage operations, including the recovery of wrecked ships and other marine vessels.

The ideal candidate will have an understanding of marine engineering principles, navigation, and the ability to operate various salvage equipment.

They will be responsible for ensuring that all salvage operations are conducted in a safe, efficient, and environmentally-friendly manner.

 

Responsibilities

• Design and implement salvage plans for sunken or damaged vessels
• Coordinate and oversee salvage operations, ensuring safety protocols are followed
• Operate various types of salvage equipment, including cranes, pumps, and cutting tools
• Perform underwater inspections and assessments
• Collaborate with other professionals such as marine surveyors or divers
• Prepare reports detailing the salvage operation and its outcomes
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of salvage techniques and equipment
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations
• Communicate effectively with clients and team members
• Evaluate risks and implement appropriate mitigation strategies

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Marine Salvage Engineer or a similar role
• Knowledge of marine engineering principles and salvage techniques
• Ability to operate various types of salvage equipment
• Excellent problem-solving skills
• Strong understanding of safety and environmental regulations
• Ability to work under pressure and in challenging conditions
• Degree in Marine Engineering, Naval Architecture or a related field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities
• Opportunities for travel and overseas assignments

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Marine Salvage Engineer
• Work Environment: Field setting with significant travel required. Work often involves potentially dangerous situations and challenging weather conditions.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Salvage Operations.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $75,000 minimum to $130,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Marine Salvage Engineer Do?

Marine Salvage Engineers typically work for maritime salvage companies, marine construction companies, or insurance companies.

They can also work as self-employed consultants.

Their primary responsibility is to design, plan, and manage salvage operations for sunken or stranded vessels, offshore platforms, and other marine structures.

They work closely with other marine experts such as divers, naval architects, and marine surveyors, to assess the condition of the salvage object, evaluate risks, and determine the best salvage methods.

Part of their job is to carry out stability calculations, draft lifting and towing plans, and design specialized equipment if necessary.

They also supervise the actual salvage operation to ensure that it is conducted safely and efficiently.

In addition, Marine Salvage Engineers are responsible for preparing reports, providing expert advice on salvage-related issues, and ensuring compliance with local and international regulations.

They may also be involved in the prevention and clean-up of marine pollution that may result from salvage operations.

 

Marine Salvage Engineer Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Marine Salvage Engineer should have the skills and qualifications that correspond with the job description, including:

• Technical knowledge and understanding of marine engineering principles and practices to plan, design, and lead salvage operations efficiently.
• Excellent problem-solving skills to identify, analyze, and solve complex problems that may arise during salvage operations.
• Physical endurance and strength to work under challenging conditions at sea and for extended periods.
• Advanced knowledge of diving and underwater operations, as well as familiarity with the various tools and equipment used in salvage operations.
• Effective communication skills to coordinate with team members, other professionals, and clients, clearly conveying necessary information and instructions.
• Keen attention to detail and organizational skills to manage multiple tasks simultaneously while maintaining accuracy and thoroughness.
• Ability to use specialized software for marine engineering to design and simulate salvage operations.
• Understanding of safety regulations and standards in marine operations to ensure the safety of all personnel involved in the salvage operation.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and make crucial decisions quickly in emergency situations.

 

Marine Salvage Engineer Experience Requirements

Entry-level Marine Salvage Engineers typically require a Bachelor’s degree in Naval Architecture, Marine Engineering, or a related field, with an emphasis on marine structures and systems.

Internships or relevant part-time jobs in marine construction or repair can provide invaluable real-world experience.

Practical experience in a marine environment, including dive operations or marine surveying, is also beneficial.

A familiarity with the principles of salvage, towing, and rigging is essential, often obtained through on-the-job training or specialized courses.

Engineers with 2 to 3 years of experience in the field will usually have completed a number of salvage operations, developing technical skills and practical knowledge in areas such as underwater cutting and welding, lifting and rigging, and salvage project management.

Those with over 5 years of experience will likely have significant project management experience, having overseen complex salvage operations, managed teams, and liaised with clients, insurance companies, and regulatory bodies.

They may be well-positioned for senior or supervisory roles in the industry.

In addition, engineers interested in higher-level positions may consider furthering their qualifications with a master’s degree or additional certifications.

This could include becoming a Certified Marine Salvage Engineer or obtaining a Professional Engineer (PE) license.

 

Marine Salvage Engineer Education and Training Requirements

Marine Salvage Engineers typically have a bachelor’s degree in marine engineering, naval architecture, or a related field.

This foundational education provides them with a deep understanding of marine principles, hydrodynamics, ship structures, and marine power systems.

In addition to the degree, gaining practical experience in the field is critical.

This could be through internships, job placements, or on-the-job training in marine salvage companies.

Having a master’s degree in marine engineering or a related discipline may be beneficial, especially for more complex or senior roles.

This advanced degree typically focuses on specialized areas such as underwater acoustics, ocean engineering, ship design, and salvage operations.

Marine Salvage Engineers also need to have professional licensure, which typically requires passing two competitive exams and gaining a specific amount of work experience.

Furthermore, given the evolving nature of marine technology and environmental regulations, ongoing professional development and training are also crucial.

Engineers may participate in training programs and workshops offered by professional bodies or maritime institutions.

In addition to the technical skills, Marine Salvage Engineers need to be proficient in underwater diving and survival at sea, which require specific certifications.

A good understanding of international salvage laws and experience with salvage software will be an added advantage in this field.

 

Marine Salvage Engineer Salary Expectations

The average wage for a Marine Salvage Engineer is approximately $74,700 (USD) per year.

The actual income can depend greatly on factors such as years of experience, the complexity of projects undertaken, geographical location, and the employer.

 

Marine Salvage Engineer Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Marine Salvage Engineer need?

Marine Salvage Engineers should possess strong problem-solving skills due to the unpredictable nature of salvage operations.

They need to have a sound understanding of marine engineering principles, along with the ability to design and implement salvage plans.

They also need to have good physical fitness to cope with the demanding nature of the job.

Strong communication and teamwork skills are also essential due to the need to work with a diverse team of professionals during salvage operations.

 

Do Marine Salvage Engineers need a degree?

Most Marine Salvage Engineers have a degree in marine engineering, naval architecture, or a related field.

However, experience in maritime operations, such as naval service or work on commercial vessels, can also be valuable.

Some employers may also require a license from a recognized maritime authority.

 

What should you look for in a Marine Salvage Engineer’s resume?

In a Marine Salvage Engineer’s resume, look for a strong background in marine engineering or a related field.

Experience in salvage operations, underwater work, or maritime law can be particularly valuable.

You should also look for evidence of problem-solving skills, physical fitness, and the ability to work as part of a team under challenging conditions.

 

What qualities make a good Marine Salvage Engineer?

A good Marine Salvage Engineer is adaptable, able to respond effectively to the unpredictable challenges that can arise during salvage operations.

They are also physically resilient and able to cope with demanding conditions.

Good Marine Salvage Engineers have strong technical skills but are also able to communicate effectively with a diverse team.

They are also committed to safety and environmental protection.

 

Is it difficult to hire Marine Salvage Engineers?

Hiring Marine Salvage Engineers can be challenging due to the specialized skills and experience required for the role.

It may be necessary to offer attractive compensation packages to attract the best candidates.

Furthermore, these engineers must be willing to work in often unpredictable and challenging conditions, which can limit the pool of potential applicants.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve dived beneath the surface to unearth the real essence of a marine salvage engineer.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about recovering sunken artifacts or vessels.

It’s about navigating the treacherous waters, one salvage operation at a time.

Armed with our marine salvage engineer job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to embark on your next adventure.

But why drop anchor here?

Plunge deeper with our job description generator. It’s your roadmap to creating precise job listings or finessing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every salvaged artifact is a piece of the larger puzzle.

Let’s unearth that treasure. Together.

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