There are many different types of marine transportation jobs, each with its own unique set of responsibilities and pay scale. Here are some of the most popular and best-paying positions in this field:
1. Marine Engineer
As a marine engineer, you will be responsible for designing, constructing, and maintaining the vessels that make up the maritime industry. Your duties will include overseeing the construction of new ships, as well as repairing and maintaining existing ones. You will also be responsible for ensuring that all safety standards are met.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for marine engineers was $94,410 in May 2019. The top 10% of earners made more than $157,430, while the bottom 10% earned less than $54,660. Marine engineering is a highly specialized field, and salaries can vary depending on experience, education, and location.
In general, marine engineers working in the oil and gas industry tend to earn the highest salaries. Those working in government or educational institutions may earn somewhat less. Location also plays a role in earnings potential; marine engineers working in Alaska, California, or Hawaii tend to earn more than those working in other states.
Education and experience are important factors in determining earnings potential for marine engineers. Those with a bachelor’s degree in marine engineering or a related field will typically start out earning more than those without a degree. Those with advanced degrees or extensive experience may earn even more.
The job outlook for marine engineers is positive, with an expected growth rate of 9% between 2019 and 2029. This growth rate is faster than the average for all occupations. The demand for marine engineers is expected to be driven by the need for new and innovative designs for ships, boats, and other marine vessels.
2. Marine Architect
Like marine engineers, architects are responsible for the design and construction of new maritime vessels. However, their focus is more on the aesthetic side of things, making sure that the ship is not only functional but also looks good.
As of May 2018, the median annual salary for marine architects was $93,250. The top 10 percent of earners made more than $139,490, while the bottom 10 percent earned less than $54,140. Marine architects typically have a bachelor’s degree in naval architecture, ocean engineering, or marine engineering. Some also have a master’s degree or doctorate. Marine architects must be licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard.
Job outlook for marine architects is good. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment of marine architects will grow 11 percent from 2016 to 2026, faster than the average for all occupations. The need for new and innovative ships, including eco-friendly designs, will drive demand for marine architects.
Marine architects typically work in offices, but they may also spend time on ships or at construction sites. They may travel to meet with clients, visit shipyards, or observe ship construction. Some marine architects work for the government.
3. Naval Architect
Naval architects are similar to marine architects, but their focus is on the military side of things. They design and oversee the construction of naval ships, such as aircraft carriers and submarines.
Naval architects typically earn salaries in the range of $65,000 to $85,000 per year. Salaries for those with experience and advanced degrees may be even higher. Starting salaries for entry-level positions are usually in the range of $45,000 to $55,000 per year. Job prospects for naval architects are expected to be good in the coming years. The demand for new ships, both civilian and military, is expected to remain strong. Employment opportunities should be especially good for those with experience in shipbuilding and repair. In addition, job prospects should be good for those with experience in computer-aided design and construction (CADD).
4. Marine Surveyor
Marine surveyors are responsible for inspecting maritime vessels to ensure that they meet all safety and performance standards. They also conduct damage assessments after accidents or natural disasters.
There are a lot of variables that affect how much marine surveyors earn, including experience, location, and the size and type of vessel they’re surveying. In general, marine surveyors in the United States earn an average salary of $58,000 per year. those with more experience can earn up to $100,000 per year or more. Marine surveyors in other countries may earn less or more depending on the local economy.
5. Marine Pilot
Marine pilots are responsible for guiding vessels in and out of port, as well as through dangerous waters. They must have a thorough knowledge of the area in which they will be working, as well as the different types of vessels that use the waterways.
Marine pilots earn a median salary of $73,530 per year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The top 10 percent of earners in this field make more than $122,720 per year, while the bottom 10 percent make less than $37,910 per year.
Pilots who fly for the Marines are typically paid an hourly rate, with those at the top of the pay scale earning as much as $82 per hour. Those at the bottom of the scale usually earn around $40 per hour. Marine pilots typically work long hours and are on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
6. Maritime Lawyer
Maritime lawyers specialize in the legal aspects of the maritime industry, such as contract law, insurance law, and environmental law. They often work with maritime businesses to help them navigate the complex legal landscape.
Maritime lawyers are among the highest paid legal professionals in the world. Their average annual salary is $145,000, according to the latest figures from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This figure does not include bonuses or other forms of compensation, which can easily add another $20,000 to $30,000 to their total earnings. Maritime lawyers working in the private sector tend to earn even more than their counterparts in the public sector.
The high salaries of maritime lawyers are due in part to the specialized nature of their work. They must have a thorough understanding of maritime law, which can be quite complex. They also need to be well-versed in international law, since many maritime disputes involve multiple countries. In addition, maritime lawyers must be able to navigate the often-confusing world of maritime regulations.
Despite the challenges of their job, maritime lawyers are in high demand. This is due in large part to the increasing globalization of the world economy. As more businesses operate across borders, they are increasingly likely to run into legal problems that can only be resolved by a maritime lawyer.
7. Marine Biologist
Marine biologists study the plants and animals that live in the ocean. They may also conduct research on the impact of humans on marine ecosystems.
Most marine biologists in the United States earn an annual salary of $60,000. However, those with a PhD can earn up to $100,000 per year. Marine biologists who work in government agencies or non-profit organizations may earn less than those who work in the private sector. The top 10% of earners make more than $80,000 per year. The bottom 10% of earners make less than $40,000 per year.
The median salary for marine biologists is $60,000. This means that half of all marine biologists earn more than this amount and half earn less. The salaries of marine biologists can vary depending on their experience, education level, and the type of employer they work for. Those who work in the private sector tend to earn more than those who work in the public sector. Marine biologists with a PhD can earn up to $100,000 per year.
The job outlook for marine biologists is good. The demand for their services is expected to grow at a rate of 9% over the next ten years. This growth is due to the increasing popularity of ocean-based recreation and the need for marine biologists to help protect ocean ecosystems.
The vast majority of marine biologists work full time. Some may work more than 40 hours per week if they are conducting field research or working on deadline. Marine biologists typically work in office settings, but they may also spend time working in laboratories or in the field.
Most marine biologists have a bachelor’s degree in biology or a related field. Those who wish to conduct research or teach at the collegiate level typically need a PhD. Marine biologists must be proficient in mathematics and computer science as well as have strong communication skills. They must be able to work independently and as part of a team.
8. Marine Archaeologist
Marine archaeologists study shipwrecks and other underwater sites to learn about the history of maritime transportation. They may also be responsible for excavating and preserving these sites.
Marine archaeologists earn a median salary of $52,000 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The top 10 percent earn more than $79,000, while the bottom 10 percent earn less than $31,000. Salaries vary depending on experience, education, and location.
Marine archaeologists typically need at least a master’s degree in archaeology, anthropology, or a related field. Many jobs also require experience working on archaeological excavations.
Most marine archaeologists work for government agencies, universities, or private consulting firms. Some may also work for museums or historical societies.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment of archaeologists will grow 4 percent from 2019 to 2029, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Competition for jobs is expected to be strong because there are more people interested in these positions than there are available jobs. People with experience and advanced degrees should have the best job prospects.
9. Naval Historian
Naval historians study the history of naval warfare and the different types of vessels that have been used over time. They may also write books or articles about maritime history.
The average salary for a Naval Historian is $74,000 per year. However, salaries can range from $45,000 to $120,000 per year, depending on experience and education levels. naval historians typically work for the government or for private historical organizations. Many also work as freelance consultants.
Naval historians typically have a bachelor’s degree in history or a related field. They may also have a master’s degree or PhD in history. Many naval historians begin their careers as interns or research assistants. Those who work for the government may need to have security clearance.
10. Marine Geologist
Marine geologists study the Earth’s oceans and the various landforms that make up the seafloor. They may also conduct research on the impact of humans on marine ecosystems.
Marine geologists are responsible for studying the history, composition and structure of the Earth’s seafloor. They use their findings to advise on the development of oil and gas reserves, mineral deposits and other underwater resources.
Marine geologists typically earn salaries in the range of $60,000 to $80,000 per year. However, earnings can vary depending on experience, qualifications and employer. Those working in private industry may earn higher salaries than those working in government or academia.
Marine geologists typically have at least a bachelor’s degree in geology or a related field. However, those with advanced degrees and specialized experience may earn higher salaries. Those working in private industry may also receive bonuses and other forms of compensation, such as stock options.
