How Much Does a Staff Chief Engineer on a Cruise Ship Make?

By Robert Palmer

A staff chief engineer is a high-ranking position on a cruise ship and one of the most responsible jobs onboard. It is the duty of the staff chief engineer to maintain and repair all of the vessel’s systems, ensuring that they are functioning properly and safely at all times. This includes everything from propulsion and electrical systems to waste management and water treatment. The staff chief engineer also oversees day-to-day operations, supervises a team of engineers, and works closely with the captain to ensure the safe operation of the ship.

The job of a staff chief engineer requires extensive experience in engineering and maritime operations. Most positions require at least five years of experience in engineering or related fields, as well as extensive knowledge of vessel machinery, systems, and regulations.

In addition, many cruise lines require their staff chief engineers to have certification from either a maritime college or from an accredited engineering organization.

The salary for a staff chief engineer on a cruise ship varies depending on several factors such as size of the vessel, length of contract, experience level, location, and more. Generally speaking however, salaries can range from around $50k USD per year for smaller vessels up to $150k USD per year for larger vessels. Additionally, some positions may also offer bonuses or other compensation such as housing allowances or travel benefits.

Conclusion: A staff chief engineer on a cruise ship is an important position that requires significant experience and knowledge in many different areas. Salaries can vary greatly but generally range from around $50k USD per year up to $150k USD per year depending on factors such as size of vessel, length of contract, experience level and more.