To become a marine engineer you need to have a Maritime New Zealand approved national certificate, and complete a prescribed amount of sea service. This is followed by a course to gain your Marine Engineer Class 1, 2 or 3 to become a merchant navy marine engineer, or Class 4, 5 or 6 to become a fishing industry, restricted limit vessel or shore-based marine engineer.

Gaining classes 4, 5 or 6 can be achieved solely through sea service, but completing a national certificate reduces the amount of sea service required.

There are different entry requirements for each of the following maritime industry sectors: merchant navy, fishing industry and restricted-limit sector. 

Maritime New Zealand website – information about becoming a marine engineer 

The Royal New Zealand Navy also offers marine engineering cadet training.

Royal NZ Navy website – information about a career as a marine engineering officer

There are no specific secondary educational requirements for marine engineers, although most employers prefer at least three years of secondary education. Useful subjects include English and maths.

Marine engineers learn many skills on the job. They may be required to attend courses to learn about new equipment and machinery.

Useful experience for marine engineers includes:

• heavy engineering
• experience with pneumatic and hydraulic machinery (operated with pressure caused by air and liquids)
• welding
• electrical or electronics work

Work experience on ships is also useful.