Shipbuilding & ship machinery Jobs in Malaysia

Why Work in the Shipbuilding & Ship Machinery in Malaysia

Strategic Location for Maritime Trade

Malaysia is located along one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes, the Strait of Malacca. This makes it a crucial hub for shipbuilding, repair, and maritime logistics in Southeast Asia.

Growing Industry with Government Support

The Malaysian government supports the maritime industry through initiatives and policies under the Malaysia Shipping Master Plan and other national blueprints, providing a stable environment for long-term career growth.

Diverse Career Opportunities

From naval architecture and marine engineering to welding, project management, and logistics, the sector offers a wide range of technical and professional roles for skilled individuals.

Competitive Salaries and Benefits

Due to the specialized nature of the work, professionals in shipbuilding and ship machinery often receive competitive compensation, allowances, and opportunities for skill upgrades.

Advancement in Technology and Innovation

Malaysia’s shipyards are increasingly adopting automation, green technology, and digital systems, creating dynamic environments for engineers and technicians interested in innovation.

International Exposure and Collaboration

Many Malaysian shipyards work on international projects or with global partners, giving employees the chance to gain international experience without leaving the country.

Strong Demand for Skilled Talent

There is a steady demand for trained workers in the shipbuilding and machinery sector, making it a secure choice for long-term career development.

Creative Shipbuilding & Ship Machinery in Malaysia for International Candidates

Demand for Niche Skills

International professionals with advanced qualifications in naval architecture, marine engineering, automation, or marine systems design are more likely to be considered. Specialized roles in offshore vessel design, propulsion systems, and green maritime technologies are areas where local skill shortages may create opportunities for foreign workers.

Work Visa and Regulation

To work legally in Malaysia, international candidates must secure an Employment Pass, sponsored by a local employer. The hiring company must justify the need for foreign expertise, especially when local talent is available. Therefore, senior-level or highly technical roles are more open to international applicants than entry- or mid-level positions.

Industry Outlook

Malaysia is investing in modernizing shipyards and expanding its maritime infrastructure under the Malaysia Shipping Master Plan. This long-term development could lead to an increase in international collaboration, especially for large-scale projects or naval contracts, improving the market for foreign professionals with relevant experience.

Challenges

Competition from local professionals, strict labor regulations, and cost considerations can limit opportunities. Fluency in English is essential, and familiarity with Bahasa Malaysia is an advantage. International candidates should also be prepared for regional cultural differences and workplace expectations.

Types of Shipbuilding & Ship Machinery Jobs in Malaysia

1. Naval Architect

Responsible for the design and structural integrity of ships, ensuring stability, performance, and compliance with maritime regulations.

2. Marine Engineer

Focuses on the mechanical and electrical systems of vessels, including propulsion, power generation, and auxiliary machinery.

3. Shipyard Project Manager

Oversees shipbuilding or repair projects, managing timelines, budgets, workforce coordination, and client communication.

4. Welders and Fabricators

Skilled in joining and assembling metal structures used in ship hulls, decks, and frames. Experience in MIG, TIG, or arc welding is often required.

5. Marine Electrician

Handles the installation, maintenance, and repair of electrical systems onboard ships, such as lighting, navigation, and power control systems.

6. Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) Inspector

Ensures that materials and finished ship components meet international standards and classification society requirements.

7. Production Supervisor

Manages daily operations in shipyard workshops, monitoring staff performance and enforcing safety procedures.

8. Technical Superintendent

Typically an ex-seafarer, responsible for overseeing vessel maintenance and repair operations from shore-based offices.

9. Machinery Design Engineer

Specializes in designing onboard mechanical systems such as engines, HVAC, and hydraulic equipment.

10. Procurement and Supply Chain Specialist

Handles the sourcing and logistics of materials, equipment, and components for ship construction and repair.

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

Job Title	Avg. Salary (MYR/month)	USD/month	INR/month
Naval Architect	8,000	1,680	140,000
Marine Engineer	7,500	1,575	131,250
Shipyard Project Manager	10,000	2,100	175,000
QA/QC Inspector	6,000	1,260	105,000
Marine Electrician	4,500	945	78,750
Welder/Fabricator	4,000	840	70,000
Production Supervisor	6,500	1,365	113,750
Machinery Design Engineer	7,000	1,470	122,500
Technical Superintendent	9,000	1,890	157,500
Piping Engineer	6,500	1,365	113,750
Mechanical Fitter	4,200	882	73,500
Procurement Specialist	5,500	1,155	96,250
Dock Supervisor	5,800	1,218	101,500
Marine HVAC Technician	4,800	1,008	84,000
CNC Machinist	4,200	882	73,500
Coating & Painting Supervisor	4,300	903	75,250
Structural Engineer	6,800	1,428	119,000
Logistics Coordinator	5,000	1,050	87,500
HSE Officer	5,500	1,155	96,250
Marine Surveyor	7,200	1,512	126,000

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

Eligibility Criteria	Details
Work Visa Requirement	Must obtain an Employment Pass, sponsored by a Malaysian employer.
Educational Qualification	Minimum of a Diploma or Bachelor's Degree in Marine Engineering, Naval Architecture, Mechanical Engineering, or related fields.
Professional Experience	Typically 3–5 years of relevant experience; higher roles may require 7+ years.
Specialized Skills	Expertise in marine systems, ship design, offshore engineering, welding, or QA/QC is preferred.
Language Proficiency	Proficiency in English is required; Bahasa Malaysia is an advantage.
Certifications	Industry certifications (e.g., STCW, AWS Welding, IMO standards, IACS) may be required depending on the role.
Age Limit	Generally below 50 years for most employment pass applications.
Medical Fitness	Must pass a medical examination in compliance with Malaysia’s health regulations.
Employer Justification	Employers must prove the position cannot be filled locally, justifying the hiring of a foreigner.
Background Check	Clean criminal and immigration record is necessary.
Contract Type	Most foreign hires are on fixed-term contracts (1–3 years), renewable based on performance and project needs.
Salary Threshold	Must meet the minimum salary requirement for Employment Pass (usually RM 5,000/month or more).

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

Job Profile	General Roles and Responsibilities
Naval Architect	Design ship structures, ensure stability and strength, prepare blueprints, and conduct simulations.
Marine Engineer	Develop and maintain propulsion systems, engines, and onboard machinery.
Shipyard Project Manager	Oversee entire shipbuilding/repair projects, manage schedules, budget, and coordinate across teams.
QA/QC Inspector	Conduct inspections, ensure compliance with quality standards and class regulations.
Marine Electrician	Install and maintain ship electrical systems including power distribution, lighting, and control panels.
Welder/Fabricator	Perform welding tasks for hulls and internal structures using MIG/TIG/arc welding.
Production Supervisor	Manage daily workshop activities, monitor workforce, enforce safety and quality practices.
Technical Superintendent	Manage vessel maintenance from shore, liaise with ship crew and vendors, plan dry-docking.
Machinery Design Engineer	Design and develop mechanical systems including HVAC, pumps, and hydraulics for vessels.
Piping Engineer	Design, install, and test piping systems for fuel, ballast, and water on ships.
Mechanical Fitter	Assemble, install, and align mechanical components and systems.
Procurement Specialist	Source materials and ship components, manage supplier relations and logistics.
Dock Supervisor	Coordinate docking/undocking, ensure safe vessel positioning and maintenance readiness.
Marine HVAC Technician	Install and maintain heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems aboard ships.
CNC Machinist	Operate CNC machines to produce ship components with precision.
Coating & Painting Supervisor	Manage surface preparation, anti-corrosion treatments, and painting tasks.
Structural Engineer	Analyze and validate strength of ship structures, support design with simulations and calculations.
Logistics Coordinator	Plan and manage transportation of ship parts and tools within shipyards or to vessels.
HSE Officer	Monitor health, safety, and environmental compliance; conduct training and audits.
Marine Surveyor	Inspect vessels for seaworthiness, safety, and regulatory compliance on behalf of classification bodies.

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

Job Profile	Minimum Education	Experience Required	Certifications/Skills	Other Requirements
Naval Architect	Bachelor's in Naval Architecture	3–5 years	CAD software, stability analysis, IMO regulations	Familiarity with classification society rules
Marine Engineer	Bachelor's in Marine/Mechanical Engg.	3–5 years	Propulsion systems, MARPOL, SOLAS knowledge	Valid STCW Certificate preferred
Shipyard Project Manager	Degree in Engineering or Management	5–10 years	Project management tools (Primavera/MSP), leadership	PMP or equivalent certification advantageous
QA/QC Inspector	Diploma/Degree in Mechanical/Marine	3–5 years	NDT Level II, welding inspection, ISO/ASME standards	Knowledge of IACS and ship class requirements
Marine Electrician	Diploma in Electrical Engineering	2–4 years	Electrical systems, PLCs, troubleshooting	Seafaring or shipyard experience preferred
Welder/Fabricator	Technical Certificate (Welding)	2–3 years	MIG/TIG/ARC welding, blueprint reading	AWS/CSWIP certification preferred
Production Supervisor	Diploma in Engineering	4–6 years	Workshop coordination, manpower planning	Strong leadership and communication skills
Technical Superintendent	Degree in Marine Engineering	7–10 years (sea + shore)	Vessel maintenance, dry-dock planning, budgeting	Former Chief Engineer is a plus
Machinery Design Engineer	Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering	3–5 years	3D CAD software (AutoCAD, SolidWorks), system design	Experience with marine machinery essential
Piping Engineer	Diploma/Degree in Mechanical Engg.	3–5 years	P&ID drafting, pipe stress analysis, AutoCAD	Shipyard or offshore piping experience preferred
Mechanical Fitter	Technical Certificate	2–3 years	Assembly, alignment, hand tools	Hands-on experience in marine environment
Procurement Specialist	Degree in Supply Chain/Business	3–5 years	Vendor management, SAP/ERP systems	Maritime procurement experience is an advantage
Dock Supervisor	Diploma in Marine Engineering	4–6 years	Vessel docking, yard safety coordination	Knowledge of docking procedures and equipment
Marine HVAC Technician	Certificate in Refrigeration/HVAC	2–3 years	HVAC systems maintenance, pressure testing	Marine or offshore HVAC experience preferred
CNC Machinist	Certificate in CNC Machining	2–4 years	CNC programming (Fanuc/Siemens), precision measuring	Experience in ship component manufacturing preferred
Coating & Painting Supervisor	Certificate in Industrial Coating	2–4 years	Surface prep, anti-corrosion coatings, paint standards	NACE or FROSIO certification preferred
Structural Engineer	Bachelor's in Civil/Structural Engg.	3–5 years	Finite element analysis, ship structural codes	Familiarity with ship design tools
Logistics Coordinator	Diploma in Logistics/Supply Chain	2–4 years	Inventory systems, shipping documents, customs handling	Experience in marine logistics is a plus
HSE Officer	Diploma in HSE/Engineering	3–5 years	Risk assessments, audits, incident investigation	NEBOSH/OSHA certifications required
Marine Surveyor	Degree in Marine/Naval Architecture	5+ years	Vessel inspection, compliance checks, classification rules	Certification from IACS member bodies preferred

Experience Required to work in Shipbuilding & Ship Machinery in Malaysia

Job Profile	Typical Experience Required	Experience Level
Naval Architect	3–5 years	Mid-level
Marine Engineer	3–5 years	Mid-level
Shipyard Project Manager	5–10 years	Senior-level
QA/QC Inspector	3–5 years	Mid-level
Marine Electrician	2–4 years	Entry to Mid-level
Welder/Fabricator	2–3 years	Entry-level
Production Supervisor	4–6 years	Mid to Senior-level
Technical Superintendent	7–10 years (including sea time)	Senior-level
Machinery Design Engineer	3–5 years	Mid-level
Piping Engineer	3–5 years	Mid-level
Mechanical Fitter	2–3 years	Entry-level
Procurement Specialist	3–5 years	Mid-level
Dock Supervisor	4–6 years	Mid-level
Marine HVAC Technician	2–3 years	Entry-level
CNC Machinist	2–4 years	Entry to Mid-level
Coating & Painting Supervisor	2–4 years	Entry to Mid-level
Structural Engineer	3–5 years	Mid-level
Logistics Coordinator	2–4 years	Entry to Mid-level
HSE Officer	3–5 years	Mid-level
Marine Surveyor	5+ years	Senior-level

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

Company Name	Location	Specialization	Known for Hiring International Talent
Malaysia Marine and Heavy Engineering (MMHE)	Pasir Gudang, Johor	Shipbuilding, offshore platforms, marine repairs	Yes (Engineering, Project Management)
Boustead Naval Shipyard Sdn Bhd	Lumut, Perak	Naval vessel construction and maintenance	Yes (Naval Architecture, QA/QC)
Shin Yang Shipyard Sdn Bhd	Miri, Sarawak	Shipbuilding for tugs, barges, offshore support vessels	Occasionally (Welders, Engineers)
Berjaya Dockyard Sdn Bhd	Sibu, Sarawak	Ship repair, maintenance, riverine and cargo vessels	Occasionally
Muhibbah Marine Engineering Sdn Bhd	Klang, Selangor	Shipbuilding, steel fabrication, offshore structures	Yes (Design & Structural Engineers)
NGV Tech Sdn Bhd (limited ops)	Sijangkang, Selangor	High-speed patrol vessels, shipbuilding	Occasionally (Specialized roles)
Grade One Marine Shipyard Sdn Bhd	Sandakan, Sabah	Tugboats, maintenance services	Occasionally
Brooklands Shipyard Sdn Bhd	Penang	Ship repairs, maintenance	Rare (More local hiring)
Target Resources Sdn Bhd	Kota Kinabalu, Sabah	Marine machinery, ship engine systems	Yes (Engineers, Technicians)
MM Matrix Marine Sdn Bhd	Klang, Selangor	Marine equipment installation and servicing	Occasionally
Vantage Energy Group (Vantage Marine)	Johor Bahru	Offshore support vessels, ship chartering, repairs	Yes (Marine Superintendents, Engineers)
Sapura Energy Berhad (Marine Division)	Seri Kembangan, Selangor	Offshore construction, marine support vessels	Yes (Engineers, Project Leads)
Terasaki Electric (M) Sdn Bhd	Klang, Selangor	Marine electrical systems and switchboards	Yes (Electrical Engineers, Designers)
Dynaciate Engineering Sdn Bhd	Johor	Industrial and marine fabrication	Occasionally (Specialized technical roles)
Southern Shipbuilding Sdn Bhd	Johor Bahru	Ship construction, maintenance of offshore vessels	Yes (Engineers, QC Inspectors)