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How a marine engineer / naval architect can use AI, task by task

O*NET 17-2121.00: Marine Engineers and Naval ArchitectsMedian pay $112,230/year (BLS, May 2025)30 tasksJob Zone 4: Considerable preparation

Design, develop, and evaluate the operation of marine vessels, ship machinery, and related equipment, such as power supply and propulsion systems.

Type your own title and every prompt on this page updates to match. Also called: Marine Architect, Marine Design Engineer, Marine Engineer, Marine Engineering Consultant, Marine Structural Designer, Marine Surveyor, Naval Architect, Naval Architect Specialist, Ship Equipment Engineer, Structural Engineer.

Where AI fits in this job

AI-ready 24%AI-assist 51%Stays human 25%

Share of the job's tasks, weighted by how important and how frequent each task is (O*NET ratings). 7 AI-ready, 15 AI-assist and 8 human-led tasks out of 30. This measures where AI can help, not whether the job will disappear.

Information & paperwork
Thinking & planning
People & communication
Leading & teaching
Hands-on & physical

Shape of the job: importance of each kind of work activity (O*NET, 1 to 5).

🔒 Many of these tasks involve people's information. Remove names and identifying details before using AI, or use only a tool your employer has approved.

AI can draft these 7

AI produces a usable first pass. You review it, fix it and own it.

Prepare technical reports for use by engineering, management, or sales personnel.

Monthly

AI turns complex material into plain-language handouts.

📊 Real AI use (Anthropic Economic Index, Apr 2026 to May 2026): AI completed the task directly in 69% of those conversations; the rest were back-and-forth with the person.

Show prompt & steps

AI is great at turning complicated material into plain-language guides, handouts, FAQs and how-tos for a specific audience. You check it's accurate.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a marine engineer / naval architect. Part of my job is to prepare technical reports for use by engineering, management, or sales personnel.

Context: We use Proteus Engineering FastShip; the work draws on engineering and technology, design and mechanical.
Topic: [describe]
Audience: [engineering, sales]

Draft a report tailored to the audience. Use plain language, one everyday analogy, and the questions people are most likely to ask with short answers.

10-minute exercise: Internal technical report

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you prepare technical reports for use. Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Topic] and [Audience] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check every answer is right for your workplace before you share it.

Rules, prices and policies change. Make sure AI is working from your current official version.

Importance 3.7/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Prepare technical reports for internal use..

Study design proposals and specifications to establish basic characteristics of craft, such as size, weight, speed, propulsion, displacement, and draft.

Monthly

AI pulls out what matters from long documents in seconds.

Show prompt & steps

Paste a long document, manual or policy into AI and ask for the parts that matter to you. You get a summary in seconds, then you read the key sections it points you to.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a marine engineer / naval architect. Part of my job is to study design proposals and specifications to establish basic characteristics of craft, such as size, weight, speed, propulsion, displacement, and draft.

Context: The work draws on engineering and technology, design and mechanical.
Documents: [paste the specs, schedules, orders or system charts]
My goal: [what work I need to plan or approve]

Pull out the requirements, dependencies and deadlines, then propose a work sequence. List conflicts or gaps between documents and the questions to resolve before approval.

10-minute exercise: Plan work from technical documents

Step 1Choose a plan or approval you're working on now.
Step 2Paste the source material into [Documents] and state [My goal].
Step 3Check the conflicts it found against the originals. Raise the real ones before you sign off.

Remove names and private details before pasting, and check your employer's rules on what you can share with AI tools.

Importance 3.9/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Review technical documents to plan work..

Prepare plans, estimates, design and construction schedules, and contract specifications, including any special provisions.

Monthly

AI drafts the plan, schedule or checklist for you to adjust.

Show prompt & steps

Describe the goal, the people and the constraints, and AI drafts the plan, schedule or checklist. You adjust it to what you know about real life on the ground.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a marine engineer / naval architect. Part of my job is to prepare plans, estimates, design and construction schedules, and contract specifications, including any special provisions.

Context: We use Microsoft Project and Oracle Primavera Systems; the work draws on engineering and technology, design and mechanical.
Project: [planting, construction]
Scope: [describe]

Draft a detailed plan. Lay it out as a table with steps, owner, timing and what could go wrong, then list the decisions I still need to make.

10-minute exercise: Detailed work plan

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you prepare plans, estimates and design and construction schedules.
Step 2Fill in [Project] and [Scope] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Cross out anything that won't work on the ground and ask AI to revise with your corrections. Confirm the rules against the current official source.

AI doesn't know your people, your site or your history. Treat its plan as a starting point to react to.

Rules and regulations vary by place and change often. Confirm against the official source before relying on anything.

Importance 3.4/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Prepare detailed work plans.. Also involves: Schedule operational activities.; Prepare contracts, disclosures, or applications..

Conduct analytical, environmental, operational, or performance studies to develop designs for products, such as marine engines, equipment, and structures.

A few times a year

AI maps out the topic and options; confirm with real sources.

Show prompt & steps

AI is a fast research assistant. Ask it to map out a topic, compare options or list what to check. Use a tool with web search and ask for its sources.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a marine engineer / naval architect. Part of my job is to conduct analytical, environmental, operational, or performance studies to develop designs for products, such as marine engines, equipment, and structures.

Context: We use The MathWorks MATLAB and Ansys Fluent; the work draws on engineering and technology, design and mechanical.
Project: [system, facility, design]
Key questions: [demand, capacity, cost]

Outline a feasibility study: data needed, methods, design standards, and risks. Give sources I can check and say clearly when you're unsure.

10-minute exercise: Engineering feasibility research

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you conduct analytical, environmental and operational.
Step 2Fill in [Project] and [Key questions] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check the standards against your current code books.

AI can invent sources and citations. Open every link and confirm it says what the AI claims.

Importance 3.5/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Research advanced engineering designs or applications..

Maintain records of engineering department activities, including expense records and details of equipment maintenance and repairs.

Weekly

AI writes the first draft from your notes; you check every fact.

Show prompt & steps

Give AI your rough notes, numbers or last version and it will turn them into a clean, well-structured first draft. You check every fact and figure before it goes anywhere.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a marine engineer / naval architect. Part of my job is to maintain records of engineering department activities, including expense records and details of equipment maintenance and repairs.

Context: We use Adobe Acrobat and Microsoft Word.
Records: [geodetic, performance]
Needs: [describe]

Draft structure and entries. Use plain language and headings where they help, and mark anything you had to guess with [CHECK].

10-minute exercise: Records system upkeep

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you maintain records of engineering department activities (this week).
Step 2Fill in [Records] and [Needs] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check every fact, name and number against your source before it goes anywhere.

AI will happily make up numbers, names and dates. Every fact in the draft needs checking against your source.

Importance 3.6/5 · O*NET work activity: Maintain operational records or records systems..

Schedule machine overhauls and the servicing of electrical, heating, ventilation, refrigeration, water, and sewage systems.

Monthly

AI drafts the plan, schedule or checklist for you to adjust.

Show prompt & steps

Describe the goal, the people and the constraints, and AI drafts the plan, schedule or checklist. You adjust it to what you know about real life on the ground.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a marine engineer / naval architect. Part of my job is to schedule machine overhauls and the servicing of electrical, heating, ventilation, refrigeration, water, and sewage systems.

Context: We use Microsoft Project and Oracle Primavera Systems; the work draws on engineering and technology, design and mechanical.
Operations: [production, web work, processes]
Constraints: [sequences, capacity]

Draft a schedule with dependencies. Lay it out as a table with steps, owner, timing and what could go wrong, then list the decisions I still need to make.

10-minute exercise: Operations schedule

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you schedule machine overhauls and the servicing of electrical.
Step 2Fill in [Operations] and [Constraints] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Cross out anything that won't work on the ground and ask AI to revise with your corrections. Check it against the manufacturer's manual and your site procedure before you rely on it.

AI doesn't know your people, your site or your history. Treat its plan as a starting point to react to.

Safety-critical: AI output is a starting point. Follow your site's procedures and the manufacturer's guidance.

Importance 3.4/5 · O*NET work activity: Schedule operational activities..

Review work requests and compare them with previous work completed on ships to ensure that costs are economically sound.

Monthly

AI pulls out what matters from long documents in seconds.

Show prompt & steps

Paste a long document, manual or policy into AI and ask for the parts that matter to you. You get a summary in seconds, then you read the key sections it points you to.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a marine engineer / naval architect. Part of my job is to review work requests and compare them with previous work completed on ships to ensure that costs are economically sound.

Context: The work draws on engineering and technology, design and mechanical.
Documents: [paste the specs, schedules, orders or system charts]
My goal: [what work I need to plan or approve]

Pull out the requirements, dependencies and deadlines, then propose a work sequence. List conflicts or gaps between documents and the questions to resolve before approval.

10-minute exercise: Plan work from technical documents

Step 1Choose a plan or approval you're working on now.
Step 2Paste the source material into [Documents] and state [My goal].
Step 3Check the conflicts it found against the originals. Raise the real ones before you sign off.

Remove names and private details before pasting, and check your employer's rules on what you can share with AI tools.

Double-check every number. AI can make arithmetic and rounding mistakes.

Importance 3.0/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Review technical documents to plan work..

AI can help you prep these 15

AI speeds up the prep, drafting or thinking. The core of the task is still yours.

Maintain contact with, and formulate reports for, contractors and clients to ensure completion of work at minimum cost.

Monthly

AI drafts clear messages and talking points.

Show prompt & steps

AI can draft updates, emails and talking points so your message is clear and complete. Relationships and real-time calls are yours.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a marine engineer / naval architect. Part of my job is to maintain contact with, and formulate reports for, contractors and clients to ensure completion of work at minimum cost.

Context: We use Zoom.
Recipient: [vendor, regulator]
Information: [describe]

Draft the message. Keep it under 150 words with a clear ask, plus a 2-sentence version for chat.

10-minute exercise: Technical communication to external parties

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you maintain contact. Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Recipient] and [Information] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Edit it until it sounds like you, then send it yourself. Confirm the rules against the current official source.

Never let AI send messages for you. Read every word, because tone mistakes cost trust.

Rules and regulations vary by place and change often. Confirm against the official source before relying on anything.

Double-check every number. AI can make arithmetic and rounding mistakes.

Importance 3.9/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Communicate technical information to suppliers, contractors, or regulatory agencies.. Also involves: Prepare technical reports for internal use..

Conduct analyses of ships, such as stability, structural, weight, and vibration analyses.

Monthly

AI gets you up to speed; confirm findings with records or people.

Show prompt & steps

AI can get you up to speed fast and suggest where to look, but you need to confirm findings against real sources, records or people.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a marine engineer / naval architect. Part of my job is to conduct analyses of ships, such as stability, structural, weight, and vibration analyses.

Context: We use The MathWorks MATLAB and Ansys Fluent; the work draws on engineering and technology, design and mechanical.
System: [servers, medical device, equipment]
Criteria: [safety, efficiency, security]

Make an evaluation plan and scoring table. Give sources I can check and say clearly when you're unsure.

10-minute exercise: Equipment or system evaluation

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you conduct analyses of ships.
Step 2Fill in [System] and [Criteria] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Open two of the sources it gives and confirm the key claim before you use it.

AI can invent sources and citations. Open every link and confirm it says what the AI claims.

Importance 3.9/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Evaluate characteristics of equipment or systems..

Perform monitoring activities to ensure that ships comply with international regulations and standards for life-saving equipment and pollution preventatives.

Monthly

AI pre-checks against the rules; the sign-off stays with you.

Show prompt & steps

Use AI as a first-pass checker against a list of rules or standards. The final judgment and sign-off stay with you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a marine engineer / naval architect. Part of my job is to perform monitoring activities to ensure that ships comply with international regulations and standards for life-saving equipment and pollution preventatives.

Context: We use Tension Technology International OPTIMOOR and Adobe Acrobat; the work draws on engineering and technology, design and mechanical.
Process: [describe]
Standards: [security, technical, quality]

Make a compliance checklist and flag likely gaps. Make a table: requirement, met / not met / unclear, and the exact evidence.

10-minute exercise: Process compliance check

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you perform monitoring activities to ensure.
Step 2Fill in [Process] and [Standards] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Do your usual review too, and note what AI caught and what it missed. Confirm the rules against the current official source.

AI can miss things and sound sure about it. Use it to catch extra problems, not as the final check.

Rules and regulations vary by place and change often. Confirm against the official source before relying on anything.

Importance 4.1/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Monitor processes for compliance with standards..

Coordinate activities with regulatory bodies to ensure repairs and alterations are at minimum cost and consistent with safety.

Monthly

AI pre-checks against the rules; the sign-off stays with you.

Show prompt & steps

Use AI as a first-pass checker against a list of rules or standards. The final judgment and sign-off stay with you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a marine engineer / naval architect. Part of my job is to coordinate activities with regulatory bodies to ensure repairs and alterations are at minimum cost and consistent with safety.

Context: We use Adobe Acrobat and The MathWorks MATLAB; the work draws on engineering and technology, design and mechanical.
Activity: [engineering work, repairs, operations]
Rules: [regulations, regulators]

List compliance checkpoints, who signs off and records needed. Make a table: requirement, met / not met / unclear, and the exact evidence.

10-minute exercise: Compliance coordination

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you coordinate activities with regulatory bodies to ensure repairs.
Step 2Fill in [Activity] and [Rules] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Confirm requirements with the regulator or compliance lead. Check it against the manufacturer's manual and your site procedure before you rely on it.

AI can miss things and sound sure about it. Use it to catch extra problems, not as the final check.

Safety-critical: AI output is a starting point. Follow your site's procedures and the manufacturer's guidance.

Rules and regulations vary by place and change often. Confirm against the official source before relying on anything.

Double-check every number. AI can make arithmetic and rounding mistakes.

Importance 3.8/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Coordinate safety or regulatory compliance activities..

Prepare, or direct the preparation of, product or system layouts and detailed drawings and schematics.

Monthly

AI generates options and references; taste and the final call are yours.

Show prompt & steps

Use AI to generate lots of options, references and rough mock-ups fast. The craft, the taste and the final call are what make it yours.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a marine engineer / naval architect. Part of my job is to prepare, or direct the preparation of, product or system layouts and detailed drawings and schematics.

Context: We use McNeel Rhinoceros 3D and Autodesk AutoCAD; the work draws on engineering and technology, design and mechanical.
Project: [building, landscape]
Requirements: [codes, client needs]

Outline the drawing set and key details. Give 10 quite different options from safe to bold, then develop the best 2.

10-minute exercise: Architectural drawing set

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you prepare, or direct the preparation of and product or system layouts.
Step 2Fill in [Project] and [Requirements] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Pick the idea that sparks something and develop it yourself for 5 minutes.

Check the usage rules for AI images and text in your field, and make sure the final work is original.

Importance 3.7/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Create graphical representations of structures or landscapes..

Design complete hull and superstructure according to specifications and test data, in conformity with standards of safety, efficiency, and economy.

A few times a year

AI generates options and references; taste and the final call are yours.

Show prompt & steps

Use AI to generate lots of options, references and rough mock-ups fast. The craft, the taste and the final call are what make it yours.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a marine engineer / naval architect. Part of my job is to design complete hull and superstructure according to specifications and test data, in conformity with standards of safety, efficiency, and economy.

Context: We use McNeel Rhinoceros 3D and Autodesk AutoCAD; the work draws on engineering and technology, design and mechanical.
Facility: [describe]
Requirements: [use, budget]

Generate layout and design options. Give 10 quite different options from safe to bold, then develop the best 2.

10-minute exercise: Facility design concepts

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you design complete hull and superstructure.
Step 2Fill in [Facility] and [Requirements] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Pick the idea that sparks something and develop it yourself for 5 minutes. Check it against the manufacturer's manual and your site procedure before you rely on it.

Check the usage rules for AI images and text in your field, and make sure the final work is original.

Safety-critical: AI output is a starting point. Follow your site's procedures and the manufacturer's guidance.

Importance 4.0/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Design structures or facilities..

Evaluate performance of craft during dock and sea trials to determine design changes and conformance with national and international standards.

A few times a year

AI gets you up to speed; confirm findings with records or people.

Show prompt & steps

AI can get you up to speed fast and suggest where to look, but you need to confirm findings against real sources, records or people.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a marine engineer / naval architect. Part of my job is to evaluate performance of craft during dock and sea trials to determine design changes and conformance with national and international standards.

Context: We use Tension Technology International OPTIMOOR and The MathWorks MATLAB; the work draws on engineering and technology, design and mechanical.
System: [servers, medical device, equipment]
Criteria: [safety, efficiency, security]

Make an evaluation plan and scoring table. Give sources I can check and say clearly when you're unsure.

10-minute exercise: Equipment or system evaluation

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you evaluate performance of craft.
Step 2Fill in [System] and [Criteria] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Open two of the sources it gives and confirm the key claim before you use it.

AI can invent sources and citations. Open every link and confirm it says what the AI claims.

Importance 3.6/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Evaluate characteristics of equipment or systems..

Evaluate operation of marine equipment during acceptance testing and shakedown cruises.

A few times a year

AI gets you up to speed; confirm findings with records or people.

Show prompt & steps

AI can get you up to speed fast and suggest where to look, but you need to confirm findings against real sources, records or people.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a marine engineer / naval architect. Part of my job is to evaluate operation of marine equipment during acceptance testing and shakedown cruises.

Context: We use Seasafe Marine Software Seasafe and The MathWorks MATLAB; the work draws on engineering and technology, design and mechanical.
System: [servers, medical device, equipment]
Criteria: [safety, efficiency, security]

Make an evaluation plan and scoring table. Give sources I can check and say clearly when you're unsure.

10-minute exercise: Equipment or system evaluation

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you evaluate operation of marine equipment.
Step 2Fill in [System] and [Criteria] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Open two of the sources it gives and confirm the key claim before you use it.

AI can invent sources and citations. Open every link and confirm it says what the AI claims.

Importance 3.5/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Evaluate characteristics of equipment or systems..

Design layout of craft interior, including cargo space, passenger compartments, ladder wells, and elevators.

Monthly

AI generates options and references; taste and the final call are yours.

Show prompt & steps

Use AI to generate lots of options, references and rough mock-ups fast. The craft, the taste and the final call are what make it yours.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a marine engineer / naval architect. Part of my job is to design layout of craft interior, including cargo space, passenger compartments, ladder wells, and elevators.

Context: We use McNeel Rhinoceros 3D and Autodesk AutoCAD; the work draws on engineering and technology, design and mechanical.
Project: [building, landscape]
Requirements: [codes, client needs]

Outline the drawing set and key details. Give 10 quite different options from safe to bold, then develop the best 2.

10-minute exercise: Architectural drawing set

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you design layout of craft interior.
Step 2Fill in [Project] and [Requirements] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Pick the idea that sparks something and develop it yourself for 5 minutes.

Check the usage rules for AI images and text in your field, and make sure the final work is original.

Importance 3.7/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Create graphical representations of structures or landscapes..

Investigate and observe tests on machinery and equipment for compliance with standards.

A few times a year

AI pre-checks against the rules; the sign-off stays with you.

Show prompt & steps

Use AI as a first-pass checker against a list of rules or standards. The final judgment and sign-off stay with you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a marine engineer / naval architect. Part of my job is to investigate and observe tests on machinery and equipment for compliance with standards.

Context: We use Adobe Acrobat and The MathWorks MATLAB; the work draws on engineering and technology, design and mechanical.
Process: [describe]
Standards: [security, technical, quality]

Make a compliance checklist and flag likely gaps. Make a table: requirement, met / not met / unclear, and the exact evidence.

10-minute exercise: Process compliance check

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you investigate and observe tests.
Step 2Fill in [Process] and [Standards] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Do your usual review too, and note what AI caught and what it missed. Confirm the rules against the current official source.

AI can miss things and sound sure about it. Use it to catch extra problems, not as the final check.

Rules and regulations vary by place and change often. Confirm against the official source before relying on anything.

Importance 3.4/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Monitor processes for compliance with standards..

Determine conditions under which tests are to be conducted, as well as sequences and phases of test operations.

A few times a year

AI lays out options and timelines to react to.

📊 Real AI use (Anthropic Economic Index, Apr 2026 to May 2026): AI completed the task directly in 45% of those conversations; the rest were back-and-forth with the person.

Show prompt & steps

AI can lay out options, timelines and checklists to react to. Fitting it to your people, budget and situation is your call.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a marine engineer / naval architect. Part of my job is to determine conditions under which tests are to be conducted, as well as sequences and phases of test operations.

Context: We use Microsoft Project and Oracle Primavera Systems; the work draws on engineering and technology, design and mechanical.
Question: [what to test]
Resources: [equipment, samples, time]

Draft a protocol with design, controls, measurements and analysis. Lay it out as a table with steps, owner, timing and what could go wrong, then list the decisions I still need to make.

10-minute exercise: Research protocol

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you determine conditions.
Step 2Fill in [Question] and [Resources] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Cross out anything that won't work on the ground and ask AI to revise with your corrections.

AI doesn't know your people, your site or your history. Treat its plan as a starting point to react to.

Importance 3.1/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Devise research or testing protocols..

Establish arrangement of boiler room equipment and propulsion machinery, heating and ventilating systems, refrigeration equipment, piping, and other functional equipment.

A few times a year

AI generates options and references; taste and the final call are yours.

Show prompt & steps

Use AI to generate lots of options, references and rough mock-ups fast. The craft, the taste and the final call are what make it yours.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a marine engineer / naval architect. Part of my job is to establish arrangement of boiler room equipment and propulsion machinery, heating and ventilating systems, refrigeration equipment, piping, and other functional equipment.

Context: We use McNeel Rhinoceros 3D and Autodesk AutoCAD; the work draws on engineering and technology, design and mechanical.
System: [aerospace, marine, machinery]
Requirements: [performance, space, weight]

Generate design concepts and trade-off table. Give 10 quite different options from safe to bold, then develop the best 2.

10-minute exercise: Electromechanical design concepts

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you establish arrangement of boiler room equipment and propulsion machinery.
Step 2Fill in [System] and [Requirements] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Review concepts with your design team against requirements.

Check the usage rules for AI images and text in your field, and make sure the final work is original.

Importance 3.5/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Design electromechanical equipment or systems..

Analyze data to determine feasibility of product proposals.

Monthly

AI pre-checks against the rules; the sign-off stays with you.

Show prompt & steps

Use AI as a first-pass checker against a list of rules or standards. The final judgment and sign-off stay with you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a marine engineer / naval architect. Part of my job is to analyze data to determine feasibility of product proposals.

Context: We use Adobe Acrobat and The MathWorks MATLAB; the work draws on engineering and technology, design and mechanical.
Project: [describe]
Data: [proposals, engineering data]

Analyze requirements and feasibility. Make a table: requirement, met / not met / unclear, and the exact evidence.

10-minute exercise: Mechanical requirements review

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you analyze data to determine feasibility of product proposals.
Step 2Fill in [Project] and [Data] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Do your usual review too, and note what AI caught and what it missed.

AI can miss things and sound sure about it. Use it to catch extra problems, not as the final check.

Importance 3.1/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Analyze design or requirements information for mechanical equipment or systems..

Confer with research personnel to clarify or resolve problems and to develop or modify designs.

A few times a year

AI drafts clear messages and talking points.

Show prompt & steps

AI can draft updates, emails and talking points so your message is clear and complete. Relationships and real-time calls are yours.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a marine engineer / naval architect. Part of my job is to confer with research personnel to clarify or resolve problems and to develop or modify designs.

Context: We use Zoom.
Problem: [design, operations]
Who: [specialists]

Draft a message with data and questions. Keep it under 150 words with a clear ask, plus a 2-sentence version for chat.

10-minute exercise: Design problem discussion

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you confer with research personnel. Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Problem] and [Who] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Edit it until it sounds like you, then send it yourself.

Never let AI send messages for you. Read every word, because tone mistakes cost trust.

Importance 3.0/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Confer with other personnel to resolve design or operational problems.. Also involves: Confer with technical personnel to prepare designs or operational plans..

Procure materials needed to repair marine equipment and machinery.

Monthly

AI preps the paperwork; approving and paying stay with you.

Show prompt & steps

AI can prep the paperwork, extract details from documents and make checklists. Approving, paying and verifying stay with you.

Ready-to-use prompt

I work as a marine engineer / naval architect. Part of my job is to procure materials needed to repair marine equipment and machinery.

Context: We use SAP software and Adobe Acrobat.
Purchase: [equipment, space, technology]
Requirements: [describe]

Organize quotes comparison and request. Point out anything missing or inconsistent and suggest a template I can reuse.

10-minute exercise: Purchasing resources

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you procure materials.
Step 2Fill in [Purchase] and [Requirements] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Save the template and use it on the next one. Time both.

Personal, financial and health data shouldn't go into AI tools unless your employer has approved one for it.

Importance 3.5/5 · O*NET work activity: Purchase materials, equipment, or other resources..

These stay human 8

They need your hands, your presence or your accountable judgment. Lean into them: they get more valuable as routine work is automated.

📏 Measured in this job (O*NET work context): Face-to-face discussions: every day · Impact of decisions: important results · Contact with others: contact with others most of the time · Consequence of an error: very serious

Inspect marine equipment and machinery to draw up work requests and job specifications.

Monthly

Needs your eyes on site. AI can build the checklist and the report.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI can build your inspection checklists, explain standards and turn your notes and photos into clean reports.

Prep prompt

I work as a marine engineer / naval architect. Part of my job is to inspect marine equipment and machinery to draw up work requests and job specifications.

Context: The work draws on engineering and technology, design and mechanical.
System: [describe]
Standards: [specs]

Make an inspection checklist and findings report. Group it by area, say what 'good' and 'bad' look like for each item, and add a short template for writing up what I find.

10-minute exercise: System inspection

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you inspect marine equipment and machinery.
Step 2Fill in [System] and [Standards] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Take it with you next time, tick it alongside your usual routine, and add anything it missed.

Importance 3.6/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Inspect equipment or systems..

Supervise other engineers and crew members and train them for routine and emergency duties.

Weekly

Leading people runs on trust. AI can prep the paperwork around it.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI can prep the paperwork around leading: meeting agendas, feedback drafts, rotas, briefings and difficult-conversation rehearsals.

Prep prompt

I work as a marine engineer / naval architect. Part of my job is to supervise other engineers and crew members and train them for routine and emergency duties.

Context: The work draws on engineering and technology, design and mechanical.
Team: [engineers, specialists, subcontractors]
Issue or goal: [quality, schedule, coordination]

Help me prepare: the key message in 2 sentences, what good looks like, how people might react and how I'll respond, and one thing I'll check next week.

10-minute exercise: Supervising technical staff

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you supervise other engineers and crew members and train (this week). Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Team] and [Issue or goal] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Afterward, note one thing people responded to and one thing you'd change. Check it against the manufacturer's manual and your site procedure before you rely on it.

Safety-critical: AI output is a starting point. Follow your site's procedures and the manufacturer's guidance.

Importance 3.8/5 · O*NET work activity: Supervise engineering or other technical personnel..

Act as liaisons between ships' captains and shore personnel to ensure that schedules and budgets are maintained, and that ships are operated safely and efficiently.

Weekly

Human connection. Use AI only before and after, to prepare.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: Use AI before and after, not during. Prepare talking points, practise a hard conversation, or turn your notes into a follow-up.

Prep prompt

I work as a marine engineer / naval architect. Part of my job is to act as liaisons between ships' captains and shore personnel to ensure that schedules and budgets are maintained, and that ships are operated safely and efficiently.

Context: The work draws on engineering and technology, design and mechanical.
Situation: [reversing bus, ship schedules, yard moves]
Signals or channels: [radio, hand signals]

List clear calls or signals and what to do if communication fails. Suggest ways to open, phrases to avoid, and how to handle it if things get tense. Then play the other person so I can practice.

10-minute exercise: Movement coordination

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you act as liaisons between ships' captains and shore (this week). Leave out names and identifying details.
Step 2Fill in [Situation] and [Signals or channels] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3After the real conversation, write down what worked so you can reuse it.

Importance 3.6/5 · O*NET work activity: Communicate with others to coordinate vehicle movement..

Check, test, and maintain automatic controls and alarm systems.

Monthly

Needs your eyes on site. AI can build the checklist and the report.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI can build your inspection checklists, explain standards and turn your notes and photos into clean reports.

Prep prompt

I work as a marine engineer / naval architect. Part of my job is to check, test, and maintain automatic controls and alarm systems.

Context: The work draws on engineering and technology, design and mechanical.
System: [describe]
Requirements: [performance targets]

Draft a test plan with conditions, measurements and pass criteria. Group it by area, say what 'good' and 'bad' look like for each item, and add a short template for writing up what I find.

10-minute exercise: Performance test plan

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you check, test, and maintain automatic controls and alarm systems.
Step 2Fill in [System] and [Requirements] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Take it with you next time, tick it alongside your usual routine, and add anything it missed.

Importance 3.8/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Test performance of electrical, electronic, mechanical, or integrated systems or equipment.. Also involves: Maintain electronic equipment..

Design and oversee testing, installation, and repair of marine apparatus and equipment.

Monthly

Leading people runs on trust. AI can prep the paperwork around it.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI can prep the paperwork around leading: meeting agendas, feedback drafts, rotas, briefings and difficult-conversation rehearsals.

Prep prompt

I work as a marine engineer / naval architect. Part of my job is to design and oversee testing, installation, and repair of marine apparatus and equipment.

Context: The work draws on engineering and technology, design and mechanical.
Systems: [transport, fire protection, equipment]
Issues: [describe]

Help me prepare: the key message in 2 sentences, what good looks like, how people might react and how I'll respond, and one thing I'll check next week.

10-minute exercise: Directing maintenance

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you design and oversee testing, installation and repair of marine apparatus.
Step 2Fill in [Systems] and [Issues] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Afterward, note one thing people responded to and one thing you'd change.

Importance 3.3/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Direct equipment maintenance or repair activities.. Also involves: Devise research or testing protocols.; Direct installation activities..

Maintain and coordinate repair of marine machinery and equipment for installation on vessels.

Monthly

Physical, in-person work. AI helps with checklists and write-ups.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI helps around the job: decoding manuals and instructions, pre-job checklists, calculations and writing up what you did afterward.

Prep prompt

I work as a marine engineer / naval architect. Part of my job is to maintain and coordinate repair of marine machinery and equipment for installation on vessels.

Context: The work draws on engineering and technology, design and mechanical.
Equipment: [marine machinery, vehicles]
Schedule: [intervals]

List tasks and checks. Include the tools, materials and safety steps, the measurements or settings to double-check, and a 3-line template for logging the job. Flag anything to confirm in the manufacturer's manual.

10-minute exercise: Mechanical maintenance plan

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you maintain and coordinate repair of marine machinery and equipment.
Step 2Fill in [Equipment] and [Schedule] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Check it against the manufacturer's manual and your site rules, and add the steps only experience teaches.

Importance 3.6/5 · O*NET work activity: Maintain mechanical equipment..

Conduct environmental, operational, or performance tests on marine machinery and equipment.

A few times a year

Needs your eyes on site. AI can build the checklist and the report.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI can build your inspection checklists, explain standards and turn your notes and photos into clean reports.

Prep prompt

I work as a marine engineer / naval architect. Part of my job is to conduct environmental, operational, or performance tests on marine machinery and equipment.

Context: The work draws on engineering and technology, design and mechanical.
System: [describe]
Requirements: [performance targets]

Draft a test plan with conditions, measurements and pass criteria. Group it by area, say what 'good' and 'bad' look like for each item, and add a short template for writing up what I find.

10-minute exercise: Performance test plan

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you conduct environmental, operational and performance tests.
Step 2Fill in [System] and [Requirements] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Take it with you next time, tick it alongside your usual routine, and add anything it missed.

Importance 3.2/5 · core task · O*NET work activity: Test performance of electrical, electronic, mechanical, or integrated systems or equipment..

Oversee construction and testing of prototype in model basin and develop sectional and waterline curves of hull to establish center of gravity, ideal hull form, and buoyancy and stability data.

A few times a year

Leading people runs on trust. AI can prep the paperwork around it.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: AI can prep the paperwork around leading: meeting agendas, feedback drafts, rotas, briefings and difficult-conversation rehearsals.

Prep prompt

I work as a marine engineer / naval architect. Part of my job is to oversee construction and testing of prototype in model basin and develop sectional and waterline curves of hull to establish center of gravity, ideal hull form, and buoyancy and stability data.

Context: The work draws on engineering and technology, design and mechanical.
Project: [describe]
Issues: [schedule, quality, safety]

Prepare a site meeting plan. Give me the key message in 2 sentences, how people might react, and how to respond to each.

10-minute exercise: Directing construction

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you oversee construction and testing of prototype.
Step 2Fill in [Project] and [Issues] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Afterward, note one thing people responded to and one thing you'd change.

Importance 3.5/5 · O*NET work activity: Direct construction activities..

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Your next moves

Skills to build

From O*NET's ratings of how important each skill is in this job, matched to which part of the work it supports.

Stays human Deepen these

They power the human-led work, which is the part of the job AI can't take over.

  • Speakingimportance 3.8/5
    Used in: Guiding, Directing, and Motivating Subordinates
  • Operations Monitoringimportance 3.5/5
    Used in: Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials
  • Quality Control Analysisimportance 3.4/5
    Used in: Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials
  • Troubleshootingimportance 2.9/5
    Used in: Inspecting Equipment, Structures, or Materials

With AI Use these to work with AI

When AI does the first draft, these are the skills you use to brief it and check what comes back.

  • Critical Thinkingimportance 4.1/5
    Used in: Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others
  • Reading Comprehensionimportance 3.9/5
    Used in: Judging the Qualities of Objects, Services, or People
  • Monitoringimportance 3.4/5
    Used in: Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others
  • Active Listeningimportance 3.8/5
    Used in: Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others

Where you could move

Related jobs from O*NET with the closest skill profile, favouring ones where more of the work stays human. No step down in preparation.

New tasks appearing in this job

O*NET has started tracking 1 new or updated task here: 0 AI-ready, 0 AI-assist, 1 stays human. They have no worker ratings yet, so they aren't counted in the bar above.

Develop plans for safely drydocking vessels, including structural integrity, block loading, and stability.

New in O*NET

Your accountable call. Use AI as a sounding board beforehand.

Show prep prompt & steps

Where AI still helps: Use AI as a sounding board before you decide. Ask it to argue the other side, list what you might be overlooking, or organize the evidence.

Prep prompt

I work as a marine engineer / naval architect. Part of my job is to develop plans for safely drydocking vessels, including structural integrity, block loading, and stability.

Context: The work draws on engineering and technology, design and mechanical.
Situation: [condition or project, no names]
Options: [list]

Compare options and risks; list information needed. I decide. Argue the strongest case against my current view and list what extra information would change the decision. I make the final call.

10-minute exercise: Plan options review

Step 1Pick a real example: the next time you develop plans for safely drydocking vessels.
Step 2Fill in [Situation] and [Options] with the real details, then run the prompt.
Step 3Make the call yourself, then note whether anything it raised changed your mind.

New O*NET task (08/2025). O*NET hasn't linked it to work activities yet, so its label comes from similar tasks, such as “Develop and implement treatment plans.” (Advanced Practice Psychiatric Nurses), and was checked by hand. O*NET work activity: Develop medical treatment plans.. Also involves: Develop plans for programs or services.; Collaborate with healthcare professionals to plan or provide treatment..

Getting into this job

Bachelor's degree is most common (53% of workers)

  • High school or less 5%
  • Certificate or some college 26%
  • Associate's 5%
  • Bachelor's 53%
  • Graduate degree 11%
  • On-the-job training: 6–12 months
  • Related experience: 2–4 years
  • Professional certification: important (3.3/5)

What workers in this job report, from O*NET surveys (typical values).

Software in this job

In-demand tools from O*NET. Many now have AI built in, so check what yours can do before adding a new tool.

Adobe AcrobatAutodesk AutoCADDassault Systemes SolidWorksMicrosoft AccessMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft ProjectMicrosoft WordSAP softwareThe MathWorks MATLAB