As a Marine Engineering Officer you are the technical expert on board ships and are responsible for the ship's structures, propulsion systems, electrical generation and distribution, and domestic and associated mechanical services. Responsibilities also include the main and auxiliary machinery, engines, automatic and remote control systems, hydraulics, air conditioning and refrigeration, ventilation systems and electrical power generation and conversion equipment.

In shore based positions you will perform duties in support of the fleet including system specification, acquisition and through-life support, system certification, machinery trials and the training and management of sailors and officers.

During the service life of ships Marine Engineers monitor failure, develop and evaluate proposed modifications and repair schemes, and supervise and evaluate equipment trials. To assist in these tasks you will have access to external organisations where you will liaise closely with your civilian counterparts.

Marine Engineers are heavily involved with resource management, assigning and scheduling personnel, assets, equipment and finances to the task at hand. Ashore, you could be responsible for the provision of financial estimates or the progression of technical works requirements or maintenance programs.

As the Navy regularly introduces new ships and systems, life as a Marine Engineer Officer is constantly challenging and changing. To help you meet these new challenges, Navy provides many internal courses as well as offering the chance for postgraduate training at external institutions throughout your employment.