Shipbuilding & ship machinery Jobs in Kuwait Apply Now

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Why Work in the Shipbuilding & Ship Machinery in Kuwait


1. Strategic Location

Kuwait’s position in the Arabian Gulf makes it a strategic hub for maritime trade and logistics. This creates demand for shipbuilding, maintenance, and repair services—offering opportunities for professionals with relevant expertise.


2. Economic Growth & Investment

Kuwait has invested in expanding its port infrastructure and maritime services, especially at Shuwaikh, Shuaiba, and the newer Mubarak Al Kabeer Port. The government is also investing in oil and gas exploration, which requires support from offshore and service vessels—another boost for the shipbuilding sector.


3. Competitive Salaries & Benefits

The maritime sector in Kuwait often offers attractive compensation packages, including tax-free salaries, housing allowances, and other benefits that can be higher than in some Western countries.


4. Modern Facilities & Technology

Many shipyards in Kuwait are modernizing their facilities to accommodate larger vessels and more specialized equipment, which means you may get exposure to advanced shipbuilding technologies, machinery, and automation.


5. Career Development

Working in Kuwait’s shipbuilding sector can provide valuable experience in a dynamic and developing market. For engineers, welders, naval architects, and project managers, it’s a chance to build skills that are in demand globally.


6. Multicultural Environment

Kuwait’s workforce is highly diverse, with professionals from all over the world. This can be both a learning opportunity and a way to build a global network.


Creative Shipbuilding & Ship Machinery in Kuwait for International Candidates


1. Design & Innovation Roles


2. Advanced Manufacturing Techniques


3. Retrofit & Repair Innovation


4. Project Management & Cross-Cultural Leadership


5. Collaborations with Academia & R&D


Types of Shipbuilding & Ship Machinery Jobs in Kuwait


1. Naval Architects

2. Marine Engineers

3. Project Engineers & Managers

4. Welding & Fabrication Specialists

5. Piping Engineers & Technicians

6. Electrical & Electronics Engineers

7. HVAC & Refrigeration Technicians

8. Quality Control & Inspection Specialists

9. Safety & Environmental Engineers

10. CAD Designers & Drafters

11. Logistics & Supply Chain Coordinators

12. Supervisors & Foremen

13. Dock Masters & Yard Operations Managers

14. R&D and Innovation Specialists


Average Salary of Top 20 Job Profile of Shipbuilding & Ship Machinery in Kuwait
 

Job Profile

Annual Salary (USD)

Annual Salary (INR)

Annual Salary (KWD)

1. Naval Architect

$72,000 – $90,000

₹60,00,000 – ₹75,00,000

KWD 22,000 – 28,000

2. Marine Engineer

$66,000 – $85,000

₹55,00,000 – ₹70,00,000

KWD 20,000 – 26,000

3. Project Manager

$78,000 – $95,000

₹65,00,000 – ₹78,00,000

KWD 24,000 – 29,000

4. Welding & Fabrication Specialist

$48,000 – $60,000

₹40,00,000 – ₹50,00,000

KWD 15,000 – 18,500

5. Piping Engineer

$60,000 – $75,000

₹50,00,000 – ₹62,00,000

KWD 18,500 – 23,000

6. Electrical Engineer

$60,000 – $75,000

₹50,00,000 – ₹62,00,000

KWD 18,500 – 23,000

7. HVAC & Refrigeration Technician

$42,000 – $54,000

₹35,00,000 – ₹45,00,000

KWD 13,000 – 16,500

8. Quality Control Specialist

$54,000 – $66,000

₹45,00,000 – ₹55,00,000

KWD 16,500 – 20,000

9. Safety Engineer

$60,000 – $75,000

₹50,00,000 – ₹62,00,000

KWD 18,500 – 23,000

10. CAD Designer/Drafter

$48,000 – $60,000

₹40,00,000 – ₹50,00,000

KWD 15,000 – 18,500

11. Logistics Coordinator

$42,000 – $54,000

₹35,00,000 – ₹45,00,000

KWD 13,000 – 16,500

12. Supervisor/Foreman

$42,000 – $54,000

₹35,00,000 – ₹45,00,000

KWD 13,000 – 16,500

13. Dock Master

$66,000 – $78,000

₹55,00,000 – ₹65,00,000

KWD 20,000 – 24,000

14. Yard Operations Manager

$72,000 – $90,000

₹60,00,000 – ₹75,00,000

KWD 22,000 – 28,000

15. R&D Specialist

$66,000 – $78,000

₹55,00,000 – ₹65,00,000

KWD 20,000 – 24,000

16. Procurement Engineer

$54,000 – $66,000

₹45,00,000 – ₹55,00,000

KWD 16,500 – 20,000

17. Structural Engineer

$60,000 – $75,000

₹50,00,000 – ₹62,00,000

KWD 18,500 – 23,000

18. Mechanical Fitter

$42,000 – $54,000

₹35,00,000 – ₹45,00,000

KWD 13,000 – 16,500

19. Coating & Painting Specialist

$42,000 – $54,000

₹35,00,000 – ₹45,00,000

KWD 13,000 – 16,500

20. Instrumentation Engineer

$60,000 – $75,000

₹50,00,000 – ₹62,00,000

KWD 18,500 – 23,000


Job Eligibility to Work in Shipbuilding & Ship Machinery in Kuwait for International Job Applicants.
 

Eligibility Criteria

Details

Educational Qualifications

Typically a relevant engineering degree or diploma (e.g. Mechanical, Marine, Naval Architecture, Electrical, or related technical fields).

Professional Experience

3–5 years minimum experience (mid-level roles), 5–10 years for senior roles; relevant shipbuilding, ship repair, or marine machinery experience preferred.

Certifications

Industry certifications are advantageous: e.g. AWS (welding), NACE (coating), PMP (project management), IMO/MARPOL familiarity, etc.

Language Skills

Proficiency in English is essential; Arabic language skills are an advantage but not mandatory.

Work Visa & Sponsorship

Must secure a Kuwaiti work visa (typically sponsored by the employer).

Medical Fitness

Must pass a pre-employment medical examination as required by Kuwaiti labor laws.

Age Limit

Usually 21–60 years; some roles (e.g. heavy labor) may have stricter age caps based on local labor regulations.

Background Checks

Clean criminal record required; some employers also require references and verification of previous employment.

Passport Validity

Valid passport (at least 6 months before expiration) required for visa processing.

Professional References

Often required to demonstrate previous employment, skills, and conduct.

Adaptability

Ability to work in a multicultural environment and adapt to Kuwait’s climate and work culture.


General Roles and Responsibilities in Shipbuilding & Ship Machinery Jobs in Kuwait with 20 Job Profiles
 

Job Profile

General Roles and Responsibilities

1. Naval Architect

Design hull forms, structures, and vessel layouts; conduct stability analysis and weight calculations; oversee ship design specifications and compliance.

2. Marine Engineer

Design and maintain propulsion systems, engines, and mechanical equipment; ensure performance, fuel efficiency, and compliance with maritime regulations.

3. Project Manager

Lead and coordinate shipbuilding or repair projects; manage schedules, budgets, and resources; liaise with clients, suppliers, and subcontractors.

4. Welding & Fabrication Specialist

Perform welding and metal fabrication tasks; ensure quality and adherence to safety standards; inspect welds for defects and repair as needed.

5. Piping Engineer

Design, install, and maintain piping systems; prepare layout drawings; select appropriate materials and ensure compliance with safety standards.

6. Electrical Engineer

Design and install shipboard electrical systems; troubleshoot and maintain wiring, lighting, and power systems; ensure compliance with maritime electrical standards.

7. HVAC & Refrigeration Technician

Install and maintain heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems on vessels; ensure systems meet regulatory requirements.

8. Quality Control Specialist

Inspect materials, processes, and completed work; ensure compliance with international maritime standards (e.g., IMO, SOLAS); maintain quality documentation.

9. Safety Engineer

Develop and implement safety protocols; conduct risk assessments; monitor compliance with safety regulations; oversee emergency response procedures.

10. CAD Designer/Drafter

Create technical drawings and 3D models of ship structures and systems; collaborate with engineers; update plans during construction or modification.

11. Logistics Coordinator

Manage procurement and delivery of materials, equipment, and spare parts; coordinate logistics between suppliers, warehouses, and the shipyard.

12. Supervisor/Foreman

Oversee daily operations in shipyard workshops; assign tasks to workers; ensure adherence to project plans, safety, and quality standards.

13. Dock Master

Coordinate vessel movements within the dock; oversee docking/undocking operations; manage berth allocations and ensure safety during shipyard activities.

14. Yard Operations Manager

Oversee all yard activities, including scheduling, workforce management, and logistics; coordinate different departments to meet project deadlines.

15. R&D Specialist

Research new technologies, materials, and processes; implement innovative solutions for design, production, and maintenance of ships.

16. Procurement Engineer

Identify suppliers; negotiate contracts; manage procurement of materials and services; ensure timely delivery to support shipbuilding projects.

17. Structural Engineer

Analyze and design ship structures; ensure integrity under various load conditions; perform stress analysis and recommend improvements.

18. Mechanical Fitter

Install and align mechanical components; perform maintenance and repair on ship machinery; ensure proper operation of engines, pumps, and systems.

19. Coating & Painting Specialist

Prepare and apply protective coatings to ship structures; ensure adherence to surface preparation and coating specifications; maintain corrosion control.

20. Instrumentation Engineer

Design, install, and maintain instrumentation and control systems; ensure proper operation of sensors, alarms, and monitoring equipment on board ships.


General Job Eligibility to work in Shipbuilding & Ship Machinery in Kuwait with 20 Job Profiles
 

Job Profile

Educational Requirements

Professional Experience

Certifications/Skills

1. Naval Architect

Bachelor’s in Naval Architecture or Marine Engineering

3-5 years in ship design or related

AutoCAD, stability analysis, IMO/SOLAS knowledge

2. Marine Engineer

Bachelor’s in Marine/Mechanical Engineering

3-5 years in marine machinery

Engine systems, propulsion, classification society rules

3. Project Manager

Bachelor’s in Engineering + PMP preferred

5-10 years in shipbuilding projects

Project management, leadership, budget control

4. Welding & Fabrication Specialist

Diploma in Welding/Fabrication or related

3+ years in shipyard welding

AWS or equivalent certification

5. Piping Engineer

Bachelor’s in Mechanical or Piping Engineering

3-5 years in piping design/installation

Piping layout, stress analysis, material selection

6. Electrical Engineer

Bachelor’s in Electrical/Electronics Engineering

3-5 years in marine electrical systems

Electrical installation, automation, SOLAS compliance

7. HVAC & Refrigeration Technician

Diploma in HVAC/Refrigeration

3+ years in ship HVAC systems

F-Gas or equivalent certification

8. Quality Control Specialist

Bachelor’s in Engineering/Quality Management

3-5 years in shipyard QC

ISO 9001, NDT methods, inspection processes

9. Safety Engineer

Bachelor’s in Safety/Mechanical Engineering

3-5 years in HSE roles in shipyards

NEBOSH/OSHA certification

10. CAD Designer/Drafter

Diploma/Bachelor’s in Drafting/Design

2-3 years in shipyard design office

AutoCAD, SolidWorks, ship design standards

11. Logistics Coordinator

Bachelor’s in Logistics/Supply Chain/Business

3+ years in supply chain or shipyard logistics

Inventory management, ERP software

12. Supervisor/Foreman

Diploma/Technical certification in relevant trade

5+ years supervisory experience

Trade-specific skills, team management

13. Dock Master

Bachelor’s/Diploma in Maritime Studies

5+ years in dock operations

Docking procedures, vessel movement coordination

14. Yard Operations Manager

Bachelor’s in Engineering/Business Management

7+ years in shipyard management

Leadership, operations management

15. R&D Specialist

Master’s/Bachelor’s in Engineering/Marine Technology

3+ years in research/development

Innovation, prototyping, IMO compliance

16. Procurement Engineer

Bachelor’s in Engineering/Supply Chain

3-5 years in procurement

Vendor management, contract negotiation

17. Structural Engineer

Bachelor’s in Structural/Mechanical Engineering

3-5 years in ship structures

Structural analysis, FEA, classification standards

18. Mechanical Fitter

Diploma in Mechanical Engineering or Trade Certificate

3+ years in ship mechanical systems

Installation, maintenance, troubleshooting

19. Coating & Painting Specialist

Diploma in Surface Coating Technology

3+ years in shipyard painting/coating

NACE or equivalent certification

20. Instrumentation Engineer

Bachelor’s in Instrumentation/Electronics Engineering

3-5 years in ship instrumentation

Sensors, automation, system calibration


Experience Required to work in Shipbuilding & Ship Machinery in Kuwait
 

Job Profile

Experience Required

Naval Architect

Minimum 3–5 years in ship design, structural design, or naval architecture, including new builds and retrofits.

Marine Engineer

3–5 years in marine systems installation, propulsion systems, or ship maintenance.

Project Manager

5–10 years in shipbuilding or ship repair projects, with at least 2 years in a leadership role.

Welding & Fabrication Specialist

3+ years in welding and metal fabrication within shipyards, including knowledge of different welding techniques and standards.

Piping Engineer

3–5 years in piping design, installation, or maintenance within shipyards or offshore environments.

Electrical Engineer

3–5 years in shipboard electrical systems installation and maintenance, including power distribution, automation, and control systems.

HVAC & Refrigeration Technician

3+ years in marine HVAC and refrigeration system installation, servicing, and troubleshooting.

Quality Control Specialist

3–5 years in quality control and inspection in shipyards, including familiarity with international maritime standards (IMO, SOLAS).

Safety Engineer

3–5 years in safety engineering roles in shipyards or heavy industries, ideally with NEBOSH/OSHA certification.

CAD Designer/Drafter

2–3 years in ship design office using CAD software (AutoCAD, SolidWorks, etc.).

Logistics Coordinator

3+ years in supply chain or logistics roles in shipyards or industrial settings.

Supervisor/Foreman

5+ years supervisory experience managing skilled tradespeople in shipbuilding or heavy industries.

Dock Master

5+ years in dock operations, ship movement coordination, or vessel berthing.

Yard Operations Manager

7+ years in shipyard management or heavy industry operations, including team leadership and project coordination.

R&D Specialist

3+ years in research and development roles within marine engineering, ship design, or maritime technology.

Procurement Engineer

3–5 years in procurement, vendor management, and contract negotiation within shipyards or engineering projects.

Structural Engineer

3–5 years in ship structural design and analysis, including finite element analysis and classification society standards.

Mechanical Fitter

3+ years in installation and maintenance of mechanical systems onboard ships or offshore platforms.

Coating & Painting Specialist

3+ years in surface preparation, painting, and coating systems for ship structures.

Instrumentation Engineer

3–5 years in ship instrumentation and control systems, including installation and maintenance of sensors and automation systems.


Top Hiring Companies in Kuwait of International Candidates in Shipbuilding & Ship Machinery
 

Company Name

Specialization

Notes

Kuwait Shipbuilding & Repair Yard Company (KSRC)

Shipbuilding, repair, maintenance of commercial and naval vessels.

One of Kuwait’s largest and oldest shipyards, key employer for marine engineers and technicians.

Heavy Engineering Industries and Shipbuilding Co. (HEISCO)

Shipbuilding, repair, offshore structures, oil & gas support vessels.

Major contractor for oil sector; hires welders, engineers, project managers, and QA/QC staff.

Kuwait Oil Tanker Company (KOTC)

Maintenance and repair of oil tankers; fleet management.

Typically hires marine engineers and project specialists to support oil transport.

Arab Shipbuilding and Repair Yard Company (ASRY)

(Regional) Ship repair, maintenance, offshore services.

Based in Bahrain but often collaborates with Kuwait-based contractors; hires expats.

Mubarak Al Kabeer Port Project Contractors

Shipyard infrastructure, logistics, and support vessel operations.

Part of the Silk City development; international contractors often handle marine logistics.

Kuwait National Petroleum Company (KNPC)

Ship-related maintenance and offshore support vessel procurement.

May subcontract to shipyards; often hires project engineers with ship machinery experience.

Gulf Spic General Trading & Contracting Co.

EPC projects including shipyard support, industrial fabrication, and offshore structures.

Hires skilled welders, pipefitters, engineers, and project managers.

Alghanim International

Heavy construction, infrastructure, and marine support projects.

Participates in port construction and shipyard infrastructure projects.

Gulf Engineering Company (GEC)

Engineering services, including mechanical and electrical systems on ships.

Hires electrical, mechanical, and instrumentation engineers.

Agility Logistics

Logistics, supply chain management, support services for maritime industries.

Supports shipyards with materials management and logistics expertise.


Shipbuilding & Ship Machinery Jobs in Kuwait, Job Profiles with Salary, Job Requirements, Top Hiring Companies, General Roles and Responsibilities
 

Job Profile

Avg. Salary (USD)

Job Requirements

Top Hiring Companies

General Roles and Responsibilities

Naval Architect

$72k–$90k

Bachelor’s in Naval Architecture; 3–5 years experience; CAD/IMO/SOLAS

KSRC, HEISCO

Design ship structures; analyze stability; oversee design specs.

Marine Engineer

$66k–$85k

Bachelor’s in Marine/Mechanical Eng.; 3–5 years; propulsion systems

KSRC, KOTC, HEISCO

Design and maintain propulsion systems; install/repair ship machinery.

Project Manager

$78k–$95k

Bachelor’s + PMP preferred; 5–10 years in shipyard projects

KSRC, HEISCO, KOTC

Lead projects; manage budgets/schedules; coordinate teams.

Welding & Fabrication Specialist

$48k–$60k

Diploma; 3+ years in shipyard welding; AWS certification preferred

HEISCO, KSRC, Gulf Spic

Perform welding/fabrication; inspect welds; ensure quality standards.

Piping Engineer

$60k–$75k

Bachelor’s in Mechanical Eng.; 3–5 years; piping design/installation

HEISCO, KSRC

Design/maintain ship piping systems; layout drawings; ensure safety compliance.

Electrical Engineer

$60k–$75k

Bachelor’s in Electrical Eng.; 3–5 years; marine electrical systems

GEC, HEISCO, KSRC

Install/maintain ship electrical systems; troubleshoot; ensure SOLAS compliance.

HVAC & Refrigeration Technician

$42k–$54k

Diploma; 3+ years; F-Gas certification preferred

HEISCO, KSRC

Install/maintain HVAC systems on ships; ensure compliance with standards.

Quality Control Specialist

$54k–$66k

Bachelor’s in Engineering/QC; 3–5 years; ISO 9001/NDT skills

KSRC, HEISCO

Inspect ship structures; ensure quality standards; maintain documentation.

Safety Engineer

$60k–$75k

Bachelor’s in Safety/Eng.; 3–5 years; NEBOSH/OSHA certification

KSRC, HEISCO, Gulf Spic

Develop safety protocols; conduct risk assessments; enforce compliance.

CAD Designer/Drafter

$48k–$60k

Diploma/Bachelor’s in Design; 2–3 years; AutoCAD/SolidWorks

KSRC, HEISCO

Create ship design drawings; update plans; support design engineers.

Logistics Coordinator

$42k–$54k

Bachelor’s in Logistics/Supply Chain; 3+ years

Agility, HEISCO, Gulf Spic

Manage materials/equipment flow; coordinate with suppliers and shipyard teams.

Supervisor/Foreman

$42k–$54k

Diploma/Technical Certificate; 5+ years supervisory experience

KSRC, HEISCO, Gulf Spic

Supervise daily shipyard operations; assign tasks; ensure quality/safety.

Dock Master

$66k–$78k

Bachelor’s/Diploma in Maritime Studies; 5+ years

KSRC, Mubarak Al Kabeer Port Contractors

Coordinate vessel movements; oversee docking operations; manage berths.

Yard Operations Manager

$72k–$90k

Bachelor’s in Eng./Mgmt; 7+ years in shipyard management

KSRC, HEISCO, Alghanim International

Oversee yard activities; manage schedules/logistics; lead teams.

R&D Specialist

$66k–$78k

Master’s/Bachelor’s in Eng./Marine Tech.; 3+ years R&D experience

KISR, KSRC, HEISCO

Develop new technologies; research ship design improvements; collaborate with engineering teams.

Procurement Engineer

$54k–$66k

Bachelor’s in Eng./Supply Chain; 3–5 years

HEISCO, KSRC, Gulf Spic

Source materials/services; negotiate contracts; ensure timely delivery.

Structural Engineer

$60k–$75k

Bachelor’s in Structural/Mechanical Eng.; 3–5 years

KSRC, HEISCO

Analyze/design ship structures; perform stress analysis; recommend improvements.

Mechanical Fitter

$42k–$54k

Diploma/Trade Certificate; 3+ years mechanical systems experience

HEISCO, KSRC

Install/repair mechanical equipment on ships; ensure proper operation.

Coating & Painting Specialist

$42k–$54k

Diploma in Surface Coating; 3+ years; NACE preferred

HEISCO, KSRC

Prepare/apply protective coatings; ensure surface prep; control corrosion.

Instrumentation Engineer

$60k–$75k

Bachelor’s in Instrumentation/Electronics Eng.; 3–5 years

HEISCO, KSRC, GEC

Install/maintain ship instrumentation/control systems; troubleshoot automation and sensors.


Visa Options for Shipbuilding & Ship Machinery Jobs in Kuwait
 

Visa Type

Description

Key Points

Article 18 – Work Visa (Private Sector)

The most common work permit issued to foreigners hired by private companies, including shipyards, EPC contractors, and maritime firms.

Sponsored by the employer; renewable; allows full-time work in the shipyard or ship machinery sector; employer handles paperwork and Ministry of Interior formalities.

Article 17 – Government Visa

For government-related shipyard projects or state-owned companies (e.g. KOTC).

Generally for civil service or projects tied to government contracts; employer sponsors visa and handles formalities.

Project Visa (Article 18 variant)

Sometimes issued for specific short-term shipyard or construction projects.

Usually time-limited; linked to a specific project; renewable if project extends; employer sponsorship required.

Business/Visit Visa

For short-term visits, meetings, training, or negotiations—not for hands-on work in shipyards.

Valid for 1–3 months; cannot legally perform labor; intended for short-term business activities only.

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