Chief Engineer Courses
A Chief Engineer oversees machinery maintenance, designs equipment, supervises teams, and requires strong analytical and leadership skills.
AI Exposure
Medium
AI exposure data adapted from Felten, Raj & Seamans (2021). Shortage data sourced from Jobs and Skills Australia (2024).
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How do I become a Chief Engineer
Get qualified to work as a Chief Engineer with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
Estimated fee
From $36,000
Study mode
On Campus, Online
Graduates of the Doctor of Engineering (DEng) will be able to make original and significant contributions to the development, application, and evaluation of professional knowledge by engaging with practical problems of demonstrated importance to their employment context and the wider body of engineering and technical knowledge.
Career opportunities
Estimated fee
From $36,000
Study mode
On Campus, Online
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MAR50120
Duration
4 months - 6 months
Study mode
On Campus, Traineeship
The MAR50120 Diploma of Marine Engineering (Engineer Class 3 Near Coastal) qualifies you to apply for the AMSA certificate of competency, enabling you to serve as a chief or second engineer on eligible ships in Australian waters.
Enquire now for the full list of elective choices, entry requirements, and available enrolment dates.
Career opportunities
Duration
4 months - 6 months
Study mode
On Campus, Traineeship
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MAR40220
Duration
6 weeks - 6 months
Study mode
Blended, Distance, On Campus
Become a qualified marine engineer with the MAR40220 Certificate IV in Maritime Operations (Marine Engine Driver Grade 1 Near Coastal). This nationally recognised training course is recognised by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) and contributes to your Grade 1 Marine Engineer’s licence. The course covers: sea survival skills and emergency responses, managing vessel stability, overseeing refuelling operations, operating and maintaining vessel electrical systems, hull maintenance, operating d...
Career opportunities
Duration
6 weeks - 6 months
Study mode
Blended, Distance, On Campus
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MAR60120
Become a Class 1 Marine Engineer with this nationally recognised diploma. The MAR60120 Advanced Diploma of Marine Engineering (Class 1) meets the licensing requirements of the Australian Maritime Safety Authority. The course covers: marine electrotechnology, thermodynamics, mechanics, auxiliary boilers, machinery and control systems. You’ll also learn the advanced principles of of naval architecture, working in confined spaces on a vessel, and crew leadership. Enquire now for the most up-to-date list of s...
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Related career opportunities
Browse occupations related to Chief Engineer.
Common questions
How much does a Chief Engineer earn?
In Australia, a full time Chief Engineer generally earns $3,200 per week ($166,400 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.
What are the job opportunities for a Chief Engineer?
Employment numbers have remained stable in this industry in recent years. There are currently 1,900 people working in this profession in Australia and many of them specialise as a Chief Engineer. Chief Engineers may find work across all regions of Australia, particularly larger towns and cities.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights
How do I become a Chief Engineer?
If a career as a Chief Engineer interests you, consider enrolling in a Master of Engineering (Mechanical). This course would be ideal for students with a background in mechanical, instrumentation and control, electrical or industrial plant and systems engineering. A Doctor of Engineering, Master of Engineering (Civil: Structural), Master of Engineering (Electrical Systems) or Master of Engineering (Industrial Automation) may also be appropriate.
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More information
A Chief Engineer oversees the repair and maintenance of machinery and equipment in a range of settings. You might design and create new equipment to suit a particular purpose or make changes to existing engineering systems. Chief Engineers might supervise a team of workers and may specialise in a particular type of engineering such as mechanical, electrical or industrial.
Chief Engineers should have strong analytical and problem solving abilities. It’s important that you have excellent technical skills and keen attention to detail. A Chief Engineer should have strong leadership abilities and must be able to communicate well with people from a range of backgrounds. You may have to adapt your skills to suit a range of circumstances.
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