Spain has a long history in shipbuilding and marine engineering, making it one of the key players in Europe. The industry combines centuries of expertise with modern innovation.
With access to the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, Spain serves as a vital hub for global shipping, trade, and naval operations.
Spanish shipyards and machinery companies are equipped with advanced technologies, ensuring efficient and sustainable production processes.
From naval engineering and design to project management and logistics, the sector offers a wide range of professional paths for growth and specialization.
The Spanish government and the European Union provide strong support through investment programs, research initiatives, and sustainability-focused projects.
Many Spanish companies work with global clients, offering opportunities for international projects and cross-cultural professional experiences.
The industry is increasingly focused on eco-friendly ship design, renewable energy integration, and reducing environmental impact, aligning with global green standards.
Spain’s shipbuilding and ship machinery sector blends traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation, offering a unique environment where international professionals can contribute creatively to advanced maritime solutions.
Spanish shipyards actively seek international expertise to strengthen their workforce. Engineers, designers, and technical specialists from abroad are welcomed to bring fresh perspectives and specialized skills.
International candidates can engage in research on smart ships, automation, and eco-friendly propulsion systems. This makes Spain a hub for forward-thinking maritime projects.
Working in Spain provides the chance to collaborate with professionals from diverse cultural and technical backgrounds, fostering innovation and professional growth.
Spain offers professional training programs, industry certifications, and continuous learning opportunities tailored for international workers to adapt and excel in the maritime sector.
International candidates gain exposure to projects that serve clients worldwide, providing valuable experience in global shipping, trade, and naval technologies.
Beyond professional growth, Spain offers a high quality of life with a rich culture, excellent climate, and a welcoming lifestyle for international workers and their families.
Spain builds a variety of commercial vessels such as cargo ships, container carriers, ferries, and fishing vessels designed for both domestic and international markets.
Spanish shipyards, particularly Navantia, specialize in building advanced naval ships including frigates, submarines, patrol vessels, and aircraft carriers for Spain and allied countries.
Spain is well known for producing high-end yachts, mega-yachts, and small cruise ships, blending engineering excellence with luxury design.
The sector also focuses on offshore support vessels, dredgers, tugs, and research ships that support energy, oil, gas, and scientific industries.
Spain manufactures and maintains powerful marine diesel engines, turbines, and hybrid propulsion systems that meet modern efficiency and sustainability standards.
This includes pumps, compressors, boilers, steering systems, and HVAC systems designed for reliability and performance in different types of vessels.
Spain invests in eco-friendly ship machinery such as LNG engines, hydrogen fuel systems, and renewable-powered hybrid solutions to support sustainable shipping.
Job Profile |
Avg. Annual Salary (€) |
Salary (USD) |
Salary (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Naval Architect |
€48,000 |
$52,300 |
₹43,70,000 |
|
Marine Engineer |
€46,000 |
$50,100 |
₹41,90,000 |
|
Ship Design Engineer |
€45,000 |
$49,000 |
₹40,90,000 |
|
Project Manager (Shipyard) |
€60,000 |
$65,400 |
₹54,60,000 |
|
Welding Engineer |
€38,000 |
$41,400 |
₹34,60,000 |
|
Electrical Engineer (Marine Systems) |
€42,000 |
$45,800 |
₹38,20,000 |
|
Mechanical Engineer (Propulsion Systems) |
€44,000 |
$47,900 |
₹40,00,000 |
|
Quality Assurance Engineer |
€40,000 |
$43,600 |
₹36,40,000 |
|
Production Manager (Shipbuilding) |
€55,000 |
$59,900 |
₹50,00,000 |
|
CAD/CAM Designer (Ship Structures) |
€36,000 |
$39,200 |
₹32,70,000 |
|
Marine Surveyor |
€50,000 |
$54,500 |
₹45,50,000 |
|
Safety & Compliance Officer |
€39,000 |
$42,500 |
₹35,50,000 |
|
Logistics & Supply Chain Manager |
€52,000 |
$56,700 |
₹47,30,000 |
|
Hydrodynamics Specialist |
€48,000 |
$52,300 |
₹43,70,000 |
|
Offshore Vessel Engineer |
€47,000 |
$51,200 |
₹42,80,000 |
|
HVAC Engineer (Marine Systems) |
€41,000 |
$44,700 |
₹37,30,000 |
|
Shipyard Operations Supervisor |
€43,000 |
$46,900 |
₹39,10,000 |
|
Research & Development Engineer |
€49,000 |
$53,400 |
₹44,60,000 |
|
Automation & Robotics Engineer |
€51,000 |
$55,600 |
₹46,40,000 |
|
Environmental & Sustainability Specialist (Marine) |
€42,000 |
$45,800 |
₹38,20,000 |
Eligibility Criteria |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Educational Qualification |
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Naval Architecture, Marine Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related fields. |
|
Work Experience |
2–5 years of relevant industry experience for mid-level roles; 7–10+ years for senior positions (Project Managers, Specialists). |
|
Technical Skills |
Proficiency in ship design software (AutoCAD, CATIA, Rhino, SolidWorks), knowledge of marine engines, propulsion systems, welding standards, and safety regulations. |
|
Language Requirement |
Spanish language proficiency preferred (B1/B2 level), though many shipyards accept English for technical and engineering roles. |
|
Certifications (Optional/Preferred) |
STCW (Standards of Training, Certification & Watchkeeping), welding certifications, ISO quality certifications, marine safety training, or PMP for managers. |
|
Work Permit / Visa |
Non-EU citizens require a valid Spanish work visa and sponsorship from an employer. EU/EEA citizens can work freely without a visa. |
|
Age Limit |
No strict age limit, but most employers prefer candidates between 22–55 depending on role and physical requirements. |
|
Health & Safety Compliance |
Must meet medical fitness standards for working in shipyards, docks, and offshore environments. |
|
Adaptability |
Ability to work in multicultural teams, flexibility for international projects, and willingness to travel or relocate within Spain. |
|
Background Check |
Clean criminal record and professional background verification (mandatory for defense/naval contracts). |
Job Profile |
General Roles & Responsibilities |
|---|---|
|
Naval Architect |
Designs ship structures, ensures stability, safety, and hydrodynamic performance. |
|
Marine Engineer |
Develops and maintains propulsion systems, engines, and auxiliary machinery. |
|
Ship Design Engineer |
Creates technical drawings, 3D models, and structural layouts of vessels. |
|
Project Manager (Shipyard) |
Oversees shipbuilding projects, manages budgets, schedules, and resources. |
|
Welding Engineer |
Defines welding processes, supervises quality control, ensures compliance with standards. |
|
Electrical Engineer (Marine Systems) |
Designs and maintains onboard electrical systems, power distribution, and automation. |
|
Mechanical Engineer (Propulsion Systems) |
Works on engines, pumps, turbines, and propulsion mechanisms. |
|
Quality Assurance Engineer |
Conducts inspections, testing, and ensures compliance with ISO and marine standards. |
|
Production Manager (Shipbuilding) |
Manages shipyard operations, workforce, and assembly line activities. |
|
CAD/CAM Designer (Ship Structures) |
Prepares digital models for ship parts, assists in prototype and manufacturing. |
|
Marine Surveyor |
Inspects vessels for seaworthiness, safety, and regulatory compliance. |
|
Safety & Compliance Officer |
Monitors health, safety, and environmental regulations within shipyards. |
|
Logistics & Supply Chain Manager |
Handles procurement, inventory, and timely supply of ship components. |
|
Hydrodynamics Specialist |
Analyzes fluid flow, resistance, and ship propulsion efficiency. |
|
Offshore Vessel Engineer |
Designs and maintains vessels used in oil, gas, and offshore wind industries. |
|
HVAC Engineer (Marine Systems) |
Installs and maintains heating, ventilation, and cooling systems in ships. |
|
Shipyard Operations Supervisor |
Supervises daily operations, workforce coordination, and safety checks. |
|
Research & Development Engineer |
Innovates new ship technologies, materials, and sustainable machinery solutions. |
|
Automation & Robotics Engineer |
Implements robotics, AI, and automation in shipbuilding processes. |
|
Environmental & Sustainability Specialist (Marine) |
Works on eco-friendly ship design, emissions reduction, and green technologies. |
Job Profile |
Minimum Education |
Experience Required |
Key Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Naval Architect |
Bachelor’s/Master’s in Naval Architecture |
2–5 yrs |
Strong CAD/CAE skills, knowledge of ship stability & hydrodynamics |
|
Marine Engineer |
Bachelor’s in Marine/Mechanical Engineering |
2–5 yrs |
Expertise in propulsion systems, marine engines, STCW certification preferred |
|
Ship Design Engineer |
Bachelor’s in Naval/Mechanical Engineering |
2–4 yrs |
Proficiency in ship design software (AutoCAD, Rhino, SolidWorks) |
|
Project Manager (Shipyard) |
Bachelor’s + PMP/MBA preferred |
7–10 yrs |
Leadership, budgeting, EU project experience |
|
Welding Engineer |
Bachelor’s/Diploma in Welding/Mechanical |
3–6 yrs |
IWE (International Welding Engineer) certification advantageous |
|
Electrical Engineer (Marine Systems) |
Bachelor’s in Electrical/Electronics Engineering |
2–5 yrs |
Marine automation, power systems, PLC knowledge |
|
Mechanical Engineer (Propulsion Systems) |
Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering |
3–5 yrs |
Knowledge of turbines, pumps, and propulsion equipment |
|
Quality Assurance Engineer |
Bachelor’s in Engineering |
2–4 yrs |
ISO/IMO standards, NDT certification preferred |
|
Production Manager (Shipbuilding) |
Bachelor’s in Engineering/Management |
7+ yrs |
Shipyard operations, workforce management |
|
CAD/CAM Designer (Ship Structures) |
Diploma/Bachelor’s in Design/Engineering |
1–3 yrs |
CAD/CAM software skills, structural design knowledge |
|
Marine Surveyor |
Bachelor’s in Naval/Marine Engineering |
5+ yrs |
Classification society approvals, regulatory expertise |
|
Safety & Compliance Officer |
Bachelor’s in Safety/Engineering |
2–4 yrs |
Knowledge of marine HSE laws, risk management |
|
Logistics & Supply Chain Manager |
Bachelor’s in Logistics/Engineering |
5+ yrs |
Procurement, international supply chain handling |
|
Hydrodynamics Specialist |
Master’s in Naval/Marine Engineering |
3–6 yrs |
CFD simulations, hull performance analysis |
|
Offshore Vessel Engineer |
Bachelor’s in Marine/Offshore Engineering |
4–6 yrs |
Offshore vessel design, oil & gas compliance |
|
HVAC Engineer (Marine Systems) |
Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering |
2–4 yrs |
Marine HVAC installation & maintenance skills |
|
Shipyard Operations Supervisor |
Diploma/Bachelor’s in Engineering |
3–5 yrs |
Daily shipyard coordination, safety compliance |
|
Research & Development Engineer |
Master’s/PhD in Engineering |
3–6 yrs |
R&D in ship technology, materials, sustainability |
|
Automation & Robotics Engineer |
Bachelor’s/Master’s in Robotics/Automation |
3–5 yrs |
Marine automation, robotics, AI applications |
|
Environmental & Sustainability Specialist (Marine) |
Bachelor’s/Master’s in Environmental Engineering |
2–4 yrs |
Marine sustainability, emissions reduction knowledge |
Job Profile |
Average Experience Required |
|---|---|
|
Naval Architect |
2–5 years |
|
Marine Engineer |
2–5 years |
|
Ship Design Engineer |
2–4 years |
|
Project Manager (Shipyard) |
7–10+ years |
|
Welding Engineer |
3–6 years |
|
Electrical Engineer (Marine Systems) |
2–5 years |
|
Mechanical Engineer (Propulsion Systems) |
3–5 years |
|
Quality Assurance Engineer |
2–4 years |
|
Production Manager (Shipbuilding) |
7–10 years |
|
CAD/CAM Designer (Ship Structures) |
1–3 years |
|
Marine Surveyor |
5–8 years |
|
Safety & Compliance Officer |
2–4 years |
|
Logistics & Supply Chain Manager |
5–8 years |
|
Hydrodynamics Specialist |
3–6 years |
|
Offshore Vessel Engineer |
4–6 years |
|
HVAC Engineer (Marine Systems) |
2–4 years |
|
Shipyard Operations Supervisor |
3–5 years |
|
Research & Development Engineer |
3–6 years |
|
Automation & Robotics Engineer |
3–5 years |
|
Environmental & Sustainability Specialist (Marine) |
2–4 years |
Company |
Location (HQ / Major Yards) |
Specialization |
Opportunities for International Candidates |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Navantia |
Madrid / Ferrol, Cádiz, Cartagena |
Naval defense ships, submarines, frigates |
Frequently hires international engineers, designers, project managers |
|
Astilleros Gondán |
Castropol (Asturias) |
Offshore vessels, fishing vessels, tugs |
Open to international marine engineers & technicians |
|
Astilleros Armon |
Vigo, Gijón, Navia |
Commercial vessels, ferries, fishing vessels |
Opportunities in design, welding, and shipyard operations |
|
Astican (Astilleros de Canarias) |
Las Palmas (Canary Islands) |
Ship repair, maintenance, offshore support |
Welcomes foreign specialists in repair & marine systems |
|
Zamakona Yards |
Bilbao, Pasajes, Las Palmas |
Offshore vessels, fishing vessels, ship repair |
International hiring in engineering & technical services |
|
Factorías Vulcano |
Vigo (Galicia) |
Cargo ships, ferries, offshore support vessels |
Hires naval architects, welders, and marine engineers |
|
Nodosa Shipyard |
Marín (Pontevedra, Galicia) |
Cargo vessels, fishing vessels, tugs |
International opportunities in ship design & machinery |
|
Metalships & Docks |
Vigo (Galicia) |
Ship repair, luxury yachts, offshore vessels |
Open to global talent in repair & high-tech ship systems |
|
Freire Shipyard (Astilleros Freire) |
Vigo (Galicia) |
Research vessels, luxury yachts |
Recruits international candidates for R&D & design roles |
|
Astilleros Balenciaga |
Zumaia (Basque Country) |
Fishing vessels, small offshore vessels |
Openings for designers, welders, and naval engineers |
Job Profile |
Avg. Salary (€/year) |
Job Requirements |
General Roles & Responsibilities |
Top Hiring Companies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Naval Architect |
€48,000 |
Bachelor’s/Master’s in Naval Architecture, 2–5 yrs exp., CAD/CAE |
Designs ship structures, stability, hydrodynamics |
Navantia, Astilleros Armon, Gondán |
|
Marine Engineer |
€46,000 |
Marine/Mechanical Eng., STCW pref., 2–5 yrs exp. |
Develops propulsion, machinery, engines |
Zamakona Yards, Nodosa, Navantia |
|
Ship Design Engineer |
€45,000 |
Engineering degree, CAD (Rhino, SolidWorks), 2–4 yrs exp. |
Prepares designs, technical drawings, layouts |
Freire Shipyard, Vulcano, Balenciaga |
|
Project Manager (Shipyard) |
€60,000 |
Eng./MBA/PMP, 7–10 yrs exp. |
Oversees shipyard projects, budget, resources |
Navantia, Astican, Armon |
|
Welding Engineer |
€38,000 |
Mechanical/Welding Eng., IWE cert. |
Supervises welding quality, compliance |
Gondán, Vulcano, Armon |
|
Electrical Engineer (Marine Systems) |
€42,000 |
Electrical Eng., PLC knowledge, 2–5 yrs exp. |
Designs onboard electrical/automation systems |
Navantia, Zamakona, Astican |
|
Mechanical Engineer (Propulsion) |
€44,000 |
Mechanical Eng., propulsion exp., 3–5 yrs |
Develops pumps, turbines, propulsion units |
Armon, Navantia, Vulcano |
|
Quality Assurance Engineer |
€40,000 |
Eng. degree, ISO/IMO knowledge, NDT pref. |
Inspections, testing, compliance |
Navantia, Freire, Astican |
|
Production Manager |
€55,000 |
Eng./Mgmt degree, 7+ yrs exp. |
Oversees shipyard production & teams |
Navantia, Armon, Zamakona |
|
CAD/CAM Designer |
€36,000 |
Eng./Diploma in CAD, 1–3 yrs exp. |
Creates 3D ship part models |
Freire, Vulcano, Balenciaga |
|
Marine Surveyor |
€50,000 |
Eng. degree, 5+ yrs exp., Class society knowledge |
Inspects ships for seaworthiness & safety |
Navantia, Astican, Zamakona |
|
Safety & Compliance Officer |
€39,000 |
Safety/Eng. degree, 2–4 yrs exp. |
Ensures HSE regulations in shipyard |
Navantia, Gondán, Armon |
|
Logistics & Supply Chain Manager |
€52,000 |
Logistics/Mgmt degree, 5+ yrs exp. |
Manages procurement & supply chain |
Zamakona, Astican, Armon |
|
Hydrodynamics Specialist |
€48,000 |
MSc Naval Eng., CFD knowledge, 3–6 yrs exp. |
Fluid dynamics, hull optimization |
Navantia, Freire, Balenciaga |
|
Offshore Vessel Engineer |
€47,000 |
Offshore/Marine Eng., 4–6 yrs exp. |
Designs & maintains offshore ships |
Gondán, Zamakona, Navantia |
|
HVAC Engineer (Marine) |
€41,000 |
Mechanical Eng., 2–4 yrs exp. |
Installs & maintains HVAC systems |
Navantia, Astican, Armon |
|
Shipyard Operations Supervisor |
€43,000 |
Eng./Diploma, 3–5 yrs exp. |
Supervises daily shipyard operations |
Armon, Vulcano, Zamakona |
|
Research & Development Engineer |
€49,000 |
MSc/PhD Eng., 3–6 yrs exp. |
Innovates new marine technologies |
Navantia, Freire, Astilleros Balenciaga |
|
Automation & Robotics Engineer |
€51,000 |
Robotics/Automation Eng., 3–5 yrs exp. |
Implements robotics & automation in shipbuilding |
Navantia, Armon, Astican |
|
Environmental & Sustainability Specialist |
€42,000 |
Env./Marine Eng., 2–4 yrs exp. |
Works on eco-friendly ship designs |
Navantia, Nodosa, Freire |
Visa Type |
Eligibility |
Validity |
Key Requirements |
Suitable For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Work Visa (General – Highly Skilled Worker Visa) |
Non-EU citizens with a job offer in Spain |
1 year (renewable) |
Job contract, proof of qualifications, background check |
Engineers, Project Managers, Specialists |
|
EU Blue Card |
Highly qualified professionals with degree & job offer in Spain |
1–4 years |
University degree, job offer with higher-than-average salary |
Naval Architects, Marine Engineers, R&D Engineers |
|
Seasonal Work Visa |
Short-term shipyard workers, technicians |
Up to 9 months |
Employer sponsorship, proof of temporary contract |
Welders, Fabricators, Technicians |
|
Intra-Company Transfer Visa |
Employees of multinational companies transferred to Spanish branch |
Length of assignment (max. 3 years) |
Existing employment contract, proof of transfer |
Project Managers, Operations Supervisors |
|
Entrepreneur/Startup Visa |
Professionals wanting to start a shipbuilding/tech venture in Spain |
2 years (renewable) |
Business plan, financial proof, innovation-based project |
Marine Tech Entrepreneurs, R&D Innovators |
|
Student Visa with Work Permit |
International students in Spain pursuing marine/engineering degrees |
Duration of study |
Enrollment in Spanish university, part-time work allowed |
Trainees, Junior Engineers, Interns |
|
Researcher Visa |
For marine & shipbuilding R&D specialists |
Length of project (up to 5 years) |
Host institution agreement, research contract |
Hydrodynamics Specialists, R&D Engineers |
|
Work Permit via Job Search Residence Visa |
For non-EU graduates from Spanish universities |
1 year (non-renewable) |
Spanish degree, job-seeking proof |
Recent international graduates in marine fields |
