Employment of marine engineers and naval architects is projected to grow 9 percent from 2014 to 2024, faster than the average for all occupations.
The need to design ships and systems to transport energy products, such as liquefied natural gas, across the globe will help to spur employment growth for this occupation. Employment of marine engineers and naval architects also will be supported by the need to modify existing ships and their systems because of new emissions and pollution regulations on cargo shipping.
Marine engineers who design and maintain offshore oil rigs are expected to be in demand as more companies seek and drill for oil and gas deposits in the ocean floor. In addition, an increase in international overseas transportation of liquefied natural gas is expected to lead to demand for marine engineers to work on ship crews, although sometimes on ships sailing under foreign flags.
Demand for marine engineers and naval architects also will come from the desire to have cargo ships that pollute less. The technology to produce less pollution is becoming more cost effective, and the United States and other countries are focusing more on reducing pollution. This task will include the adoption of new and alternative energy sources, such as offshore wind turbines and tidal power generators.
Marine Engineers and Naval Architects
Percent change in employment, projected 2014-24
Marine engineers and naval architects
9%
Total, all occupations
7%
Engineers
4%
Note: All Occupations includes all occupations in the U.S. Economy. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections program