Oman is geographically positioned at a key maritime crossroads, near major shipping routes connecting Europe, Asia, and Africa. This makes it a strategic hub for shipbuilding, maintenance, and repair activities, creating strong demand for shipyard services and related machinery.
Oman has invested significantly in developing its ports and maritime infrastructure, including major facilities like Duqm Drydock and Sohar Port. These investments are part of Oman’s Vision 2040 to diversify the economy and build a robust maritime cluster, leading to increased job opportunities in the sector.
Shipbuilding and ship machinery industries often involve cutting-edge technology, including automation, robotics, and sustainable engineering practices. Working in this sector in Oman allows professionals to develop highly transferable skills that are valued both regionally and globally.
The Omani government is actively diversifying its economy beyond oil and gas, and the maritime sector is a key part of that strategy. This means:
More investment
Better training opportunities
Long-term job prospects
Potential for career growth
Technical roles in shipbuilding, especially in specialized areas like marine engineering, naval architecture, or maintenance, often offer competitive salaries and benefits. For international professionals, Oman’s tax-free income and good quality of life add to the appeal.
Oman offers a unique blend of traditional culture and modern living, with a safe, welcoming environment. For expatriates, this means a relatively easy adjustment period and a good quality of life while working in a dynamic industry.
Oman is investing in modern shipyard facilities (like the Duqm Drydock and Sohar Port), and they’re actively working to integrate cutting-edge technologies—such as automation, robotics, 3D printing, and green shipbuilding solutions. For international candidates, this means opportunities to:
Design and develop innovative ships, including eco-friendly vessels (LNG-fueled, hybrid, etc.).
Work on retrofitting projects to meet global environmental regulations (IMO2020, decarbonization targets).
Contribute to research and development in hull design, propeller systems, or advanced coatings.
Ship machinery isn’t just nuts and bolts anymore—it’s about integrating smart technologies like IoT sensors, digital twins, and predictive maintenance systems. Oman’s push for diversification means shipyards are keen to attract experts in:
Marine engineering and mechatronics.
System integration of digital monitoring and automation tools.
Prototyping and testing of new propulsion systems or equipment.
Oman’s shipbuilding sector often partners with global engineering firms, classification societies, and equipment suppliers. This creates an environment where international candidates can:
Collaborate on multinational projects, learning from and contributing to global best practices.
Lead knowledge transfer programs to train and upskill the local workforce, fostering cultural exchange and innovative thinking.
As the industry aligns with sustainability goals, Oman is investing in eco-friendly shipyards and green retrofitting. International candidates with backgrounds in:
Alternative fuels (LNG, hydrogen, methanol)
Energy-efficient ship design
Renewable integration (solar, wind assist)
can help Oman’s industry set benchmarks in sustainable maritime practices.
For creative minds, Oman offers:
A multicultural, collaborative environment in shipyards and engineering teams.
The chance to shape the industry from an early stage as Oman’s shipbuilding sector grows.
An appealing quality of life—safe, welcoming, and tax-free income.
These roles focus on the planning, design, and engineering of vessels and machinery systems. Examples include:
Naval Architects: Design ship structures, hull forms, and stability systems.
Marine Engineers: Design and integrate propulsion systems, electrical systems, and machinery.
Piping & HVAC Engineers: Design fluid and ventilation systems aboard ships.
Structural Engineers: Focus on load analysis, strength, and compliance with classification societies.
Hands-on roles in shipbuilding yards, covering construction and assembly of vessels. Key positions:
Welders & Fabricators: Structural steelwork and hull construction.
Pipefitters & Plumbers: Install complex piping systems.
Electricians: Install and test electrical systems aboard ships.
Quality Control Inspectors: Ensure adherence to specifications and standards.
Supervisors & Foremen: Oversee production teams, ensuring safety and quality.
These roles focus on ship machinery, propulsion systems, and auxiliary equipment:
Mechanical Technicians: Maintain and repair engines, gearboxes, and other machinery.
Automation Engineers: Integrate control systems, sensors, and digital monitoring tools.
Commissioning Engineers: Test and validate ship systems prior to handover.
Hydraulic & Pneumatic Specialists: Maintain and troubleshoot fluid power systems.
Critical for overseeing large-scale shipyard projects:
Project Managers: Lead ship construction or repair projects, managing timelines and budgets.
Planners & Schedulers: Coordinate production activities and supply chain.
Procurement Specialists: Source materials and equipment for shipyard operations.
With Oman’s push toward sustainable maritime practices, emerging roles include:
Environmental Engineers: Oversee emission control, ballast water treatment, and eco-friendly technologies.
Energy Efficiency Specialists: Focus on hybrid or alternative fuel solutions.
Retrofit Engineers: Implement green upgrades on existing vessels.
Essential roles supporting shipyard operations:
Health & Safety Officers: Ensure compliance with safety standards.
HR Specialists: Manage workforce recruitment and development.
Logistics Coordinators: Manage supply chain and equipment movement.
Job Profile |
OMR/month |
USD/month |
INR/month |
---|---|---|---|
Naval Architect |
2,000–2,500 |
5,200–6,500 |
₹4,30,000–₹5,40,000 |
Marine Engineer |
1,800–2,300 |
4,700–6,000 |
₹3,90,000–₹5,00,000 |
Mechanical Engineer |
1,500–2,000 |
3,900–5,200 |
₹3,10,000–₹4,30,000 |
Electrical Engineer |
1,500–2,000 |
3,900–5,200 |
₹3,10,000–₹4,30,000 |
Welding Supervisor |
1,200–1,600 |
3,100–4,200 |
₹2,50,000–₹3,30,000 |
Fabrication Supervisor |
1,200–1,600 |
3,100–4,200 |
₹2,50,000–₹3,30,000 |
Quality Control Inspector |
1,200–1,600 |
3,100–4,200 |
₹2,50,000–₹3,30,000 |
Automation Engineer |
1,600–2,200 |
4,100–5,700 |
₹3,40,000–₹4,70,000 |
Commissioning Engineer |
1,600–2,200 |
4,100–5,700 |
₹3,40,000–₹4,70,000 |
Piping Engineer |
1,500–2,000 |
3,900–5,200 |
₹3,10,000–₹4,30,000 |
Project Manager |
2,500–3,500 |
6,500–9,100 |
₹5,40,000–₹7,60,000 |
Planner/Scheduler |
1,500–2,000 |
3,900–5,200 |
₹3,10,000–₹4,30,000 |
Procurement Specialist |
1,400–1,800 |
3,600–4,700 |
₹2,80,000–₹3,90,000 |
Health & Safety Officer |
1,400–1,800 |
3,600–4,700 |
₹2,80,000–₹3,90,000 |
HVAC Engineer |
1,500–2,000 |
3,900–5,200 |
₹3,10,000–₹4,30,000 |
Mechanical Technician |
1,000–1,400 |
2,600–3,600 |
₹2,10,000–₹3,00,000 |
Electrical Technician |
1,000–1,400 |
2,600–3,600 |
₹2,10,000–₹3,00,000 |
Pipefitter |
800–1,200 |
2,100–3,100 |
₹1,70,000–₹2,50,000 |
Welder |
800–1,200 |
2,100–3,100 |
₹1,70,000–₹2,50,000 |
Logistic Coordinator |
1,200–1,600 |
3,100–4,200 |
₹2,50,000–₹3,30,000 |
A Bachelor’s degree or diploma in a relevant field is usually required, depending on the role:
Naval Architecture, Marine Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or equivalent for technical positions.
Welding, Fabrication, or similar trades certifications (e.g. AWS, CSWIP) for skilled trades.
Higher-level roles like Project Manager often require a degree plus several years of relevant industry experience.
Employers typically expect at least 2–5 years of relevant experience for technical and engineering roles.
Senior roles (e.g. Lead Engineer, Project Manager) often require 5–10 years or more.
Experience in shipyards, drydocks, or maritime construction is highly valued.
Certifications from recognized bodies are often required (or preferred) for roles like welding inspector, quality controller, and safety officer.
Examples:
AWS, CSWIP, NACE for welding and inspection roles.
NEBOSH, IOSH for health and safety positions.
PMP (Project Management Professional) for project management roles.
English proficiency is essential, as it’s the primary working language in most shipyards and engineering teams.
Arabic is not always required but can be an advantage, especially in roles involving local workforce coordination.
International applicants must secure an employment visa sponsored by the employer.
Typically, the employer initiates the visa process once an offer is made.
The visa process includes providing:
A valid passport (usually with at least 6 months’ validity).
Educational and professional certificates (often attested).
Medical examination reports (to meet local health requirements).
Shipyards often require workers to meet medical fitness standards (due to the physically demanding nature of shipbuilding).
Specific safety training (e.g. working at heights, confined spaces) may be required by the employer before starting work.
Many employers conduct background checks or request a police clearance certificate from your home country to ensure there are no legal issues.
Teamwork, adaptability, and the ability to work in a multicultural environment are important.
For leadership roles, project management skills and the ability to manage diverse teams are highly valued.
Job Profile |
General Roles and Responsibilities |
---|---|
Naval Architect |
Design ship structures and hull forms; ensure stability and seaworthiness; prepare design drawings and specifications. |
Marine Engineer |
Design and oversee ship propulsion, power generation, and auxiliary systems; troubleshoot machinery problems. |
Mechanical Engineer |
Develop and maintain mechanical systems including engines, pumps, and HVAC; ensure compliance with standards. |
Electrical Engineer |
Design and install electrical systems; ensure proper functioning of lighting, power, and control systems. |
Welding Supervisor |
Supervise welding operations; ensure quality standards; oversee welding team productivity and safety. |
Fabrication Supervisor |
Manage steel and aluminum fabrication; coordinate schedules; maintain quality control. |
Quality Control Inspector |
Inspect welds, structures, and components; ensure compliance with classification society standards and specifications. |
Automation Engineer |
Implement and maintain automation systems; oversee control panels, PLCs, and sensor systems. |
Commissioning Engineer |
Test and validate installed systems; oversee sea trials; troubleshoot system performance. |
Piping Engineer |
Design and supervise the installation of piping systems; ensure proper routing and adherence to specifications. |
Project Manager |
Plan, coordinate, and oversee ship construction or repair projects; manage budget, timeline, and team performance. |
Planner/Scheduler |
Develop and monitor project schedules; coordinate between departments to meet deadlines. |
Procurement Specialist |
Source and purchase materials and equipment; liaise with suppliers; manage inventory levels. |
Health & Safety Officer |
Ensure compliance with safety regulations; conduct inspections and training; investigate incidents. |
HVAC Engineer |
Design and install heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems on ships. |
Mechanical Technician |
Maintain and repair engines, pumps, and mechanical systems; assist in installation and testing. |
Electrical Technician |
Install and repair electrical wiring and equipment; assist with troubleshooting. |
Pipefitter |
Fabricate and install ship piping systems; test for leaks and compliance. |
Welder |
Weld steel and aluminum structures; work with ship hulls and components as per design specs. |
Logistics Coordinator |
Manage movement of materials and equipment; coordinate with suppliers and shipyard teams for timely delivery. |
Job Profile |
Minimum Education |
Experience |
Certifications (if applicable) |
---|---|---|---|
Naval Architect |
Bachelor’s in Naval Architecture/Marine Engineering |
3–5 years |
Knowledge of CAD software, IMO/class standards |
Marine Engineer |
Bachelor’s in Marine/Mechanical Engineering |
3–5 years |
STCW/IMO, classification society knowledge |
Mechanical Engineer |
Bachelor’s/Diploma in Mechanical Engineering |
2–5 years |
N/A |
Electrical Engineer |
Bachelor’s/Diploma in Electrical Engineering |
2–5 years |
Knowledge of marine electrical systems |
Welding Supervisor |
Diploma in Welding Technology/Mechanical Engineering |
5+ years supervisory |
AWS/CSWIP certifications preferred |
Fabrication Supervisor |
Diploma in Mechanical/Production Engineering |
5+ years supervisory |
N/A |
Quality Control Inspector |
Diploma/Bachelor’s in Mechanical/Shipbuilding |
3–5 years |
CSWIP, NDT certifications preferred |
Automation Engineer |
Bachelor’s in Automation/Mechatronics/Electrical Engineering |
3–5 years |
PLC/SCADA training preferred |
Commissioning Engineer |
Bachelor’s in Mechanical/Electrical Engineering |
3–5 years |
Experience in sea trials, system testing |
Piping Engineer |
Bachelor’s/Diploma in Mechanical Engineering |
3–5 years |
N/A |
Project Manager |
Bachelor’s in Engineering; MBA is a plus |
7–10 years (project management) |
PMP certification preferred |
Planner/Scheduler |
Bachelor’s/Diploma in Engineering or Project Management |
3–5 years |
Primavera/MS Project proficiency |
Procurement Specialist |
Bachelor’s in Business/Engineering |
3–5 years |
N/A |
Health & Safety Officer |
Diploma/Bachelor’s in Safety/Engineering |
3–5 years |
NEBOSH/IOSH certifications |
HVAC Engineer |
Bachelor’s/Diploma in Mechanical Engineering |
2–5 years |
HVAC design experience |
Mechanical Technician |
Technical diploma in Mechanical Engineering |
2–4 years |
N/A |
Electrical Technician |
Technical diploma in Electrical Engineering |
2–4 years |
N/A |
Pipefitter |
ITI/Diploma in Pipefitting/Mechanical |
2–4 years |
N/A |
Welder |
ITI/Diploma in Welding Technology |
2–4 years |
AWS/CSWIP certifications preferred |
Logistics Coordinator |
Bachelor’s/Diploma in Logistics/Supply Chain Management |
2–4 years |
N/A |
Job Profile |
Typical Experience Required |
---|---|
Naval Architect |
3–5 years in ship design, CAD modeling, and classification standards |
Marine Engineer |
3–5 years in propulsion systems, ship machinery, and maintenance |
Mechanical Engineer |
2–5 years in shipyard mechanical systems or similar industries |
Electrical Engineer |
2–5 years in marine electrical systems, wiring, and troubleshooting |
Welding Supervisor |
5+ years in welding operations, with at least 2 years in a supervisory role |
Fabrication Supervisor |
5+ years in structural fabrication, with supervisory experience |
Quality Control Inspector |
3–5 years in inspection, testing, and NDT in shipyards or heavy industries |
Automation Engineer |
3–5 years in PLCs, control systems, and automation integration |
Commissioning Engineer |
3–5 years in ship system commissioning and sea trials |
Piping Engineer |
3–5 years in marine piping systems design, installation, and testing |
Project Manager |
7–10 years in shipbuilding projects, with at least 3–5 years in management |
Planner/Scheduler |
3–5 years in project planning/scheduling in shipyards or construction |
Procurement Specialist |
3–5 years in procurement, supply chain, or materials management |
Health & Safety Officer |
3–5 years in occupational health and safety, preferably in shipyards |
HVAC Engineer |
2–5 years in marine HVAC system design and installation |
Mechanical Technician |
2–4 years in shipyard mechanical systems maintenance |
Electrical Technician |
2–4 years in ship electrical installations and maintenance |
Pipefitter |
2–4 years in shipyard piping fabrication and installation |
Welder |
2–4 years in structural welding and ship hull fabrication |
Logistics Coordinator |
2–4 years in logistics, materials handling, or shipyard supply chain |
Company |
Description |
---|---|
Oman Drydock Company (ODC) |
Located at Duqm, ODC is one of the largest drydocks in the Middle East, specializing in ship repair, maintenance, conversion, and new construction. They often hire international engineers, welders, project managers, and technical specialists. |
Asyad Drydock (part of Asyad Group) |
Located at Duqm, offering ship repair, conversion, and maintenance services. They also work on ship machinery upgrades and retrofits, often seeking expertise in marine engineering, hull design, and sustainability. |
Sohar Port and Freezone |
One of the largest industrial hubs in Oman, housing ship repair and maritime engineering companies. Companies here often hire mechanical, electrical, and marine engineers. |
Gulf Petrochemical Services & Trading LLC (GPS) |
While primarily known for oil & gas, GPS also provides services in shipyard construction, mechanical fabrication, and maintenance support, and hires project managers, welders, and quality inspectors. |
L&T Oman (Larsen & Toubro Oman) |
Engaged in industrial projects, including shipyard and port infrastructure development. They hire mechanical, electrical, and civil engineers for marine projects. |
Bahwan Engineering Company |
Supplies marine equipment and engineering services to shipyards; hires mechanical, electrical, and systems engineers. |
Drydocks World Oman(part of DP World) |
Engaged in ship repair, maintenance, and retrofitting; hires skilled tradesmen, engineers, and supervisory staff. |
Khimji Ramdas Shipping |
Provides marine services and logistics support to shipyards; hires logistics and supply chain professionals. |
Al Turki Enterprises LLC |
Engaged in industrial construction, sometimes partnering in shipyard and maritime infrastructure projects; hires project managers and engineers. |
ST Engineering Oman(subsidiary of ST Engineering Singapore) |
Offers ship repair, retrofitting, and engineering solutions; hires naval architects, marine engineers, and electrical engineers. |
Job Profile |
Salary (OMR/month) |
Job Requirements |
Top Hiring Companies |
General Roles and Responsibilities |
---|---|---|---|---|
Naval Architect |
2,000–2,500 |
Bachelor’s in Naval Architecture, 3–5 yrs exp., CAD skills |
Oman Drydock, Asyad Drydock, ST Engineering Oman |
Design ship structures, hull forms, stability analysis, drawings, and specs. |
Marine Engineer |
1,800–2,300 |
Bachelor’s in Marine/Mech. Engineering, 3–5 yrs exp. |
Oman Drydock, Asyad Drydock |
Oversee ship propulsion systems, machinery maintenance, troubleshooting. |
Mechanical Engineer |
1,500–2,000 |
Bachelor’s/Diploma in Mech. Eng., 2–5 yrs exp. |
GPS, L&T Oman, Bahwan Engg. |
Maintain and integrate mechanical systems, pumps, HVAC. |
Electrical Engineer |
1,500–2,000 |
Bachelor’s/Diploma in Electrical Eng., 2–5 yrs exp. |
Asyad Drydock, Drydocks World Oman |
Install and maintain ship electrical systems, wiring, and controls. |
Welding Supervisor |
1,200–1,600 |
Diploma in Welding/Mech. Eng., 5+ yrs (2+ supervisory) |
Oman Drydock, GPS |
Oversee welding operations, ensure quality standards, supervise teams. |
Fabrication Supervisor |
1,200–1,600 |
Diploma in Mech./Production Eng., 5+ yrs supervisory |
L&T Oman, Oman Drydock |
Manage steel/aluminum fabrication, coordinate teams, ensure quality. |
Quality Control Inspector |
1,200–1,600 |
Diploma/Bachelor’s in Mech./Shipbuilding, 3–5 yrs exp., CSWIP/NDT preferred |
Oman Drydock, Drydocks World Oman |
Inspect welds, structures, materials for compliance with standards. |
Automation Engineer |
1,600–2,200 |
Bachelor’s in Automation/Mechatronics, 3–5 yrs exp. |
ST Engineering Oman, Asyad Drydock |
Integrate PLCs, automation systems, control panels. |
Commissioning Engineer |
1,600–2,200 |
Bachelor’s in Mech./Elec. Eng., 3–5 yrs exp. |
Oman Drydock, ST Engineering Oman |
Test and validate ship systems, oversee sea trials. |
Piping Engineer |
1,500–2,000 |
Bachelor’s/Diploma in Mech. Eng., 3–5 yrs exp. |
L&T Oman, GPS |
Design and oversee piping system installation and testing. |
Project Manager |
2,500–3,500 |
Bachelor’s in Eng., 7–10 yrs exp., PMP preferred |
Oman Drydock, GPS, L&T Oman |
Lead shipbuilding projects, manage teams, budgets, and timelines. |
Planner/Scheduler |
1,500–2,000 |
Bachelor’s/Diploma in Eng./Project Mgmt, 3–5 yrs exp. |
Oman Drydock, L&T Oman |
Develop project schedules, coordinate activities, track progress. |
Procurement Specialist |
1,400–1,800 |
Bachelor’s in Business/Eng., 3–5 yrs exp. |
GPS, Bahwan Engg. |
Source materials, manage supplier relationships, monitor inventory. |
Health & Safety Officer |
1,400–1,800 |
Diploma/Bachelor’s in Safety/Eng., 3–5 yrs exp., NEBOSH |
Oman Drydock, Asyad Drydock |
Implement safety policies, conduct inspections and training. |
HVAC Engineer |
1,500–2,000 |
Bachelor’s/Diploma in Mech. Eng., 2–5 yrs exp. |
GPS, ST Engineering Oman |
Design and install HVAC systems, ensure compliance with marine standards. |
Mechanical Technician |
1,000–1,400 |
Technical diploma, 2–4 yrs exp. |
Oman Drydock, GPS |
Maintain and repair ship engines and mechanical systems. |
Electrical Technician |
1,000–1,400 |
Technical diploma, 2–4 yrs exp. |
Asyad Drydock, Drydocks World Oman |
Maintain and repair electrical wiring and equipment aboard ships. |
Pipefitter |
800–1,200 |
ITI/Diploma in Pipefitting/Mech., 2–4 yrs exp. |
Oman Drydock, GPS |
Fabricate and install ship piping systems, test for leaks. |
Welder |
800–1,200 |
ITI/Diploma in Welding, 2–4 yrs exp., AWS/CSWIP preferred |
Oman Drydock, Drydocks World Oman |
Perform structural welding on hulls, decks, and components. |
Logistics Coordinator |
1,200–1,600 |
Bachelor’s/Diploma in Logistics/Supply Chain, 2–4 yrs exp. |
GPS, Bahwan Engg. |
Coordinate materials movement, manage supply chain operations. |
Visa Type |
Eligibility |
Sponsor |
Validity |
Key Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|
Employment Visa |
Foreign professionals with a job offer from an Omani employer in shipbuilding, ship machinery, or engineering. |
Omani company (shipyard, contractor, engineering firm). |
Typically 2 years, renewable. |
Most common visa; employer handles processing and sponsorship. Medical tests and police clearance may be required. |
Temporary Work Visa |
Short-term project-based workers (engineers, technicians) for a specific shipyard project. |
Omani company or shipyard. |
4–6 months, extendable. |
Suitable for specific ship repair, retrofit, or construction projects; employer must justify the short-term nature. |
Consultant/Expert Visa |
Senior professionals or consultants providing specialized technical services (e.g. project managers, safety experts). |
Omani company or government entity. |
3–6 months, extendable. |
Usually arranged for experts or specialists; employer handles documentation and sponsorship. |
Family Joining Visa |
Dependents (spouse, children) of workers with a valid Employment Visa. |
Sponsored by the primary visa holder. |
Matches the principal visa (usually 2 years). |
Allows spouse and children to live in Oman; requires proof of income and housing. |
Investor Visa |
Senior managers or professionals who are investing in or establishing a shipbuilding-related business. |
Self-sponsored with business license. |
Up to 2 years, renewable. |
Requires business registration, minimum investment criteria, and proof of funds. |
Visit Visa |
Short-term visits for job interviews, initial business meetings, or trade shows. |
Can be self-sponsored or by Omani company. |
1 month, extendable by 1 month. |
Cannot work under this visa; only for preliminary meetings or interviews. |