Ship Engineers

Task by task

Each task this job involves, as listed by O*NET, rated on whether a large language model like GPT-4 could cut the time it takes by at least half at the same quality. Tasks marked Seen in real AI use appeared in conversations with Claude in April–May 2026 (Anthropic Economic Index).

• AI can speed this up on its own: 2 (12%)
• AI can speed this up with extra software: 2 (12%)
• Little or no AI speed-up: 13 (76%)

• Maintain complete records of engineering department activities, including machine operations.AI can speed this up on its own · core task
• Record orders for changes in ship speed or direction, and note gauge readings or test data, such as revolutions per minute or voltage output, in engineering logs or bellbooks.AI can speed this up on its own · core task
• Order and receive engine room stores, such as oil or spare parts, maintain inventories, and record usage of supplies.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Act as a liaison between a ship's captain and shore personnel to ensure that schedules and budgets are maintained and that the ship is operated safely and efficiently.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task
• Start engines to propel ships, and regulate engines and power transmissions to control speeds of ships, according to directions from captains or bridge computers.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Maintain or repair engines, electric motors, pumps, winches, or other mechanical or electrical equipment, or assist other crew members with maintenance or repair duties.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Perform or participate in emergency drills, as required.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Monitor engine, machinery, or equipment indicators when vessels are underway, and report abnormalities to appropriate shipboard staff.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Perform general marine vessel maintenance or repair work, such as repairing leaks, finishing interiors, refueling, or maintaining decks.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Maintain electrical power, heating, ventilation, refrigeration, water, or sewerage systems.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Monitor and test operations of engines or other equipment so that malfunctions and their causes can be identified.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Monitor the availability, use, or condition of lifesaving equipment or pollution preventatives to ensure that international regulations are followed.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Install engine controls, propeller shafts, or propellers.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Clean engine parts and keep engine rooms clean.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Operate or maintain off-loading liquid pumps or valves.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Supervise marine engine technicians engaged in the maintenance or repair of mechanical or electrical marine vessels, and inspect their work to ensure that it is performed properly.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Fabricate engine replacement parts, such as valves, stay rods, or bolts, using metalworking machinery.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task

Questions about ship engineers and AI