Engineering Jobs: Traveling The World

Engineering jobs that allow you to travel the world include: cruise ship and cargo ship engineering, oil rig drilling, software engineering, field service engineering, and petrochemical engineering. Large international engineering firms often have travel programs for experienced employees, which involve working on projects in different countries.

Cruise Ship and Cargo Ship Engineers

Marine engineers are responsible for designing, building, testing, and repairing boats, ships, underwater craft, offshore platforms, and drilling equipment. Cruise ships and cargo ships always require engineers, and these jobs tend to pay well. Engineers on cruise ships and cargo ships get to travel without having to spend money on accommodation, which is ideal for recent graduates or young professionals who haven't started a family yet.

The engineering department on a cruise ship covers all the technical and environmental operations of the vessel. It is headed by the Chief Engineer, who is supported by several other engineers in charge of different subdivisions, including the Staff Chief Engineer, Hotel Services Engineer, HVAC Engineer, and Chief Electrician.

The Staff Chief Engineer oversees the Main Plant and Environmental Engineering subdivision, which includes all engine-room main and auxiliary machinery, such as diesel generator sets, boilers, compressors, steering gear, oily water separators, purifiers, evaporators, pumps, and heat exchangers. They also handle wastewater treatment and garbage handling plants.

The Hotel Services Engineer is in charge of hotel machinery, such as coffee makers and ice-cream vending machines, as well as safety equipment like lifeboats and watertight doors.

The HVAC Engineer is responsible for the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems on the ship, including the operation and maintenance of AC chillers, air handling units, ventilation fans, refrigeration machinery, cold rooms, and related heat exchangers.

The Chief Electrician, along with their team, takes care of the electrical propulsion systems and all electrical or electronic equipment and installations on the ship.

Engineers on cruise ships can expect to work long shifts and respond to guest complaints regarding technical issues at any time of the day or night. They also need to supervise and coordinate routine operations, inspections, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Cargo ship engineers have similar responsibilities to their cruise ship counterparts, but there are some differences. For example, unlike many cargo ships, the engine control room on a cruise ship cannot be left unmanned, and it serves as a communications centre for all technical equipment-related issues.

Oil Rig Drill Engineers

Drilling engineers typically work with other professionals, such as geologists and geoscientists, to monitor drilling progress, ensure safety management, and protect the environment. They may be employed by operating oil companies, specialist drilling contractors, or service companies. The work can be physically demanding and is often undertaken in challenging conditions.

Oil rigs can be located on land or in the ocean, and the living conditions on rigs vary. Some rigs can accommodate 50 to 100 people, with meals and laundry services provided. Rigs usually have recreational facilities such as a gym and a snooker room, and alcohol is prohibited. Travel between rigs is often by helicopter and can be complex and demanding.

Drilling engineers are responsible for various tasks, including preparing well data sheets, designing well-head equipment, and drawing up drilling programmes. They must also monitor daily progress, costs, and safety, as well as ensuring adherence to environmental protection standards.

The work of a drilling engineer can take you all over the world, from Africa to Eastern Europe and the Middle East. It offers a unique opportunity to travel while also providing a comfortable living.

If you are interested in a career as an Oil Rig Drill Engineer, it is recommended to gain relevant experience, such as working on rigs or in an onshore yard, to improve your chances of securing a position in this competitive field.

Field Service Engineers

A Field Service Engineer's daily tasks can vary greatly, as they may work with different clients and equipment each day. Strong problem-solving skills are essential, as they must be able to troubleshoot and repair a variety of issues. Effective communication skills are also crucial, as Field Service Engineers must be able to explain complex technical information to both colleagues and customers.

While the role can be demanding and may involve long hours, it offers a high degree of flexibility and the opportunity to build personal relationships with customers. Field Service Engineers often act as the key customer representative for their company, so strong customer service skills are essential. This role can be an excellent opportunity for those who enjoy variety in their work and the chance to travel to new places.

Compensation for Field Service Engineers can vary depending on the industry and location, but it is generally a well-paid position. Some companies offer additional benefits, such as overtime pay, bonuses, and vacation days. When considering a position as a Field Service Engineer, it is important to ask about the company's travel policies and ensure that you are getting a fair deal in terms of compensation and time off.

Overall, a career as a Field Service Engineer can be a rewarding and exciting opportunity for those who enjoy travel and are looking for a challenging and varied role.

Embedded Software Engineers

For example, an embedded software engineer for a laboratory machinery company could find themselves travelling to various labs worldwide. One week you could be in Berlin, the next in Philadelphia, then Tokyo, and beyond.

Another option is to work for a large international engineering firm, which often offers travel programs for employees. These are typically internal assignments that require 2-5 years of experience to qualify. You could also consider software engineer freelancing, which can be a great way to travel and grow your career.

Additionally, some companies offer remote work with travel requirements, such as Canonical, which offers remote roles worldwide with the opportunity to travel 2-4 weeks for company events.

When applying for roles, it is essential to ask about travel during the interview process or apply for internal travel positions once you have gained experience. Keep in mind that some jobs may not offer much free time to explore your destinations, and you may end up in demanding locations. Focus on finding a job you will enjoy first, and consider travel as an added bonus.

Environmental Engineers

A junior environmental engineer does a lot of the fieldwork, such as surface water, soil, and groundwater sampling, and air monitoring. A senior environmental engineer, on the other hand, leads several different projects for their organization, reviewing designs and solving environmental health and safety issues.

To become an environmental engineer, you will need a bachelor's degree in environmental engineering or a related field. Some employers prefer candidates with practical experience gained through internships or cooperative education programs.

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