Salvage Engineer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the modern era of recycling and repurposing, the role of salvage engineers has never been more crucial.

As societies strive to be more sustainable, the demand for skilled individuals who can recover, recycle, and repurpose materials from discarded objects is on the rise.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s really required from a salvage engineer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager envisioning the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the mechanics of salvage engineering,

You’re at the right place.

Today, we present a customizable salvage engineer job description template, designed for straightforward posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Salvage Engineer Duties and Responsibilities

Salvage Engineers play a crucial role in salvaging operations, including recovering shipwrecks, damaged structures, and other marine assets.

They use their specialized engineering knowledge to plan, manage, and execute salvage operations, while ensuring safety and compliance with environmental regulations.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Evaluating the feasibility of salvage operations based on detailed assessment of the conditions and risks involved
• Designing and implementing salvage plans, including the use of appropriate salvage equipment and techniques
• Coordinating with divers, marine crew, and other personnel involved in the salvage operation
• Monitoring the progress of salvage operations and making necessary adjustments to the plan as required
• Ensuring compliance with all relevant safety and environmental regulations
• Assessing and mitigating the environmental impact of salvage operations
• Preparing reports and documentation related to salvage operations
• Inspecting damaged structures and equipment to determine the best approach for salvage or repair
• Working with insurance companies and other stakeholders to evaluate the cost of salvage operations and potential recovery value
• Participating in emergency response planning and operations related to salvage operations

 

Salvage Engineer Job Description Template

Job Brief

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

The ideal candidate will be responsible for designing, planning, and executing salvage operations.

This may include inspecting damaged vessels, determining the feasibility of salvage, and designing and implementing salvage plans.

Salvage Engineers will also be responsible for risk assessments, cost estimates, and the use of advanced salvage equipment and technology.

A strong understanding of maritime laws, environmental regulations, and health and safety standards is also required.

 

Responsibilities

• Evaluate damaged vessels and determine the feasibility of salvage
• Design and implement salvage plans
• Operate advanced salvage equipment and technology
• Perform risk assessments and cost estimates
• Ensure all salvage operations comply with environmental regulations and health and safety standards
• Prepare reports and documentation of salvage operations
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of maritime laws and regulations
• Coordinate with various stakeholders including ship owners, insurers, and authorities
• Oversee the safe and efficient recovery of cargo and other items

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Salvage Engineer or similar role
• Strong understanding of maritime laws and regulations
• Knowledge of environmental regulations and health and safety standards
• Experience with advanced salvage equipment and technology
• Excellent problem-solving skills
• Strong communication and project management skills
• Ability to work in high-stress situations and make critical decisions
• Engineering degree or equivalent

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Salvage Engineer
• Work Environment: This role often requires work in challenging environments including open sea, ports, and salvage sites. Travel and irregular hours may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Salvage Operations Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $75,500 minimum to $120,000 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 Salvage Engineer Do?

Salvage Engineers work in a variety of industries, including marine, construction, and insurance.

They are usually employed by salvage companies, marine insurers, and engineering firms.

They can also work as independent consultants.

Their primary responsibility is to plan, manage, and implement operations to retrieve and salvage valuable materials and equipment from sites of accidents, disasters, or demolition.

This can include anything from sunken ships, collapsed buildings, to vehicles involved in accidents.

Salvage Engineers assess the damage, estimate the value of the materials or structures that can be recovered, and design strategies to safely and effectively extract them.

They often work with heavy machinery and hazardous materials, requiring extensive knowledge in safety protocols and disaster management.

They collaborate with other professionals such as divers, crane operators, and hazardous material specialists in executing salvage operations.

They also liaise with insurance companies, regulatory bodies, and clients to ensure compliance with legal and environmental regulations.

Part of their role also includes writing detailed reports of each salvage operation, documenting the condition of the recovered materials, the procedures followed, and the challenges encountered.

They may also be tasked with recommending methods to prevent future losses or damages.

Salvage Engineers play a crucial role in mitigating the economic and environmental impact of accidents and disasters, ensuring that valuable materials are recovered and waste is minimized.

 

Salvage Engineer Qualifications and Skills

Salvage Engineers are required to possess a unique set of qualifications and skills that enable them to effectively plan and execute salvage operations, such as:

• Strong understanding of engineering principles and their application to salvage operations to effectively devise salvage plans and strategies.
• Excellent problem-solving skills to quickly identify issues and implement effective solutions, often under high-stress and time-sensitive conditions.
• Good physical condition and stamina to endure the often physically demanding nature of salvage operations.
• Proficiency in the use of various tools and equipment typically used in salvage operations, including both hand tools and heavy machinery.
• Strong communication skills to effectively relay information and instructions to team members and other stakeholders during salvage operations.
• Ability to work in diverse and often adverse environmental conditions, including underwater, at heights, and in confined spaces.
• Knowledge of safety regulations and procedures to ensure the well-being of themselves and their team members during operations.
• Project management skills to efficiently plan, coordinate and oversee salvage operations from conception to completion.
• Detail-oriented approach to accurately assess damages, evaluate risks, and determine salvage value.

 

Salvage Engineer Experience Requirements

Entry-level Salvage Engineers usually have 1 to 2 years of experience, often gained through internships or part-time roles in engineering, construction, or related fields.

They may have spent time working in structural assessments, risk evaluations, and cost estimations.

Candidates with a background in civil, mechanical, or marine engineering also tend to have the foundational skills necessary for an entry-level position in salvage engineering.

Familiarity with diving operations and underwater inspections could be an added advantage.

Those with over 3 years of experience are typically more proficient in managing complex salvage operations, including emergency response, wreck removal, and environmental protection.

They have likely honed their skills in project management and have a deep understanding of maritime laws and regulations.

Candidates with more than 5 years of experience likely have leadership experience and extensive knowledge in planning and executing salvage projects.

They may have coordinated multi-disciplinary teams and liaised with regulatory bodies, insurers, and other stakeholders.

This level of experience may prepare them for senior salvage engineering roles or managerial positions.

 

Salvage Engineer Education and Training Requirements

Salvage Engineers typically hold a bachelor’s degree in Marine Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or a related field.

Their education should provide a broad base of engineering basics along with specific knowledge in hydraulics, materials strength, and underwater technology.

It’s important for Salvage Engineers to understand the principles of naval architecture, oceanography, and environmental science.

In addition to their degree, gaining practical experience through internships and co-op programs while in school can be beneficial.

This can provide hands-on experience with salvage operations, which often involves complex problem-solving, project management, and on-site engineering tasks.

Some positions may require Salvage Engineers to possess a master’s degree, particularly in Marine Engineering or Naval Architecture.

This higher-level education can prepare engineers for the intricate challenges of managing salvage operations and the specific demands of marine environments.

Although not mandatory, certification from a recognized professional body, like The International Association of Marine Investigators or The National Association of Marine Surveyors, can enhance job prospects.

This certification demonstrates an engineer’s commitment to continuous learning, up-to-date knowledge, and adherence to industry standards.

Furthermore, Salvage Engineers should have strong diving skills, as the job often requires underwater investigation and recovery.

Therefore, a professional diving certification, such as a commercial diving license, is highly advantageous.

Finally, due to the global nature of salvage work, additional language skills can be beneficial.

 

Salvage Engineer Salary Expectations

A Salvage Engineer can expect to earn an average salary of $70,000 (USD) per year.

The actual salary can fluctuate based on factors such as experience, qualifications, location, and the specific requirements of the employing company.

 

Salvage Engineer Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Salvage Engineer need?

Salvage Engineers should possess excellent problem-solving skills, as they are often required to develop solutions in challenging and unpredictable environments.

They must have strong knowledge of materials, marine structures, and engineering principles.

Good physical fitness is essential due to the nature of the work, and proficiency in using related tools and machinery is also beneficial.

Strong communication skills are needed to coordinate with diverse teams during salvage operations.

 

Do Salvage Engineers need a degree?

Most Salvage Engineers have a degree in Marine, Mechanical, Civil or Structural Engineering.

They often have additional qualifications in naval architecture or related fields.

A sound understanding of physics, particularly fluid dynamics and mechanics, is also beneficial.

Professional experience in marine or offshore industries can provide practical knowledge, and additional qualifications in diving or underwater operations can be useful.

 

What should you look for in a Salvage Engineer resume?

A Salvage Engineer’s resume should demonstrate strong technical expertise, particularly in marine and structural engineering.

It should also highlight experience in salvage operations, underwater work, and other relevant fields.

Professional certifications, such as commercial diving or naval architecture, can be an advantage.

It’s also beneficial to look for evidence of strong teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving skills.

 

What qualities make a good Salvage Engineer?

A good Salvage Engineer is adaptive, able to think on their feet in unpredictable environments.

They are comfortable working under pressure and have excellent decision-making abilities.

They also possess strong leadership qualities and can effectively collaborate with diverse teams.

Physical fitness and comfort in water environments are also crucial attributes.

 

What are the challenges of hiring a Salvage Engineer?

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

The profession also demands a high level of physical fitness and comfort in water environments, narrowing the pool of potential candidates.

Lastly, the unpredictability and risk associated with salvage operations can make it difficult to attract candidates to the role.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve unearthed the hidden treasures of what it means to be a salvage engineer.

Surprised?

It’s not just about dismantling damaged structures.

It’s about shaping the future of recovery and renewal, one piece of salvage at a time.

With our handy salvage engineer job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to dive in.

But why only go this far?

Submerge yourself further with our job description generator. It’s your next destination for creating ultra-precise job listings or refining your resume to excellence.

Remember:

Every salvaged piece is a part of a larger recovery.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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