Top 10 differences between GME & Mechanical Engineering
Overview
- Choosing the right engineering path is a crucial decision, and in this blog, we’ll guide you through the important distinctions between two intriguing options: Mechanical Engineering or Graduate Marine Engineering.
- Whether you’re an aspiring engineer or simply curious about these fields, our exploration of Mechanical Engineering and Graduate Marine Engineering will illuminate the unique opportunities and challenges each offers, empowering you to chart your course toward a rewarding engineering career.
Mechanical Engineering vs. Graduate Marine Engineering
Graduate Marine Engineer
- Graduate Marine engineers are professionals who work on ships and other maritime vessels, ensuring they run smoothly and safely.
- Graduate Marine engineers are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to work in the maritime industry as qualified marine engineers, maintaining and operating various types of ships and ensuring their proper functioning while at sea.
Mechanical Engineer
- A mechanical engineer is someone who designs and works on machines and mechanical systems. They use science and math to make things like engines, heating systems, and manufacturing machines. They make sure these things work well and are safe.
- Mechanical engineers can work in different industries like cars, airplanes, energy, and more. They help create and improve the machines we use every day.
Mechanical Engineering vs. Graduate Marine Engineering
Graduate Marine Engineering
- Graduate Marine Engineering (GME) is a one-year course designed for people who want to become marine engineers. It teaches them the necessary skills and knowledge to work on ships and marine vessels.
- There are 26 graduate marine engineering colleges approved by DG Shipping.
| Number of Seats in GME Colleges (26 colleges) | Number of Students in GME Colleges | Number of Students that got placed |
| 2108 | 1293 | 915 |
Best GME Colleges in India | 2023
Mechanical Engineering
- A Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) in Mechanical Engineering is an undergraduate degree program that focuses on mechanical engineering principles and practices.
- B.Tech Marine Engineering is a four-year undergraduate degree.
- It is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in the field of mechanical engineering, which is a branch of engineering that deals with the design, analysis, and production of mechanical systems and machinery.
The number of mechanical engineer graduates each year is approx 6-7lakh but only 40% got a job.
“More than 60% of engineering graduates remain unemployed” —Times of India
Colleges for Mechanical Engineering
- IIT (Indian Institute of Technology)
- NIT (National Institute of Technology)
- IIIT (Indian Institute of Information and Technology)
- Private Engineering Colleges
Hierarchy and Salary of GME in Merchant Navy
Graduate Marine Engineer
| Rank | Salary(Dry Vessel) | Salary (Tanker Vessel) |
| Chief Engineer | 8,000$-10,000 $ | 9,000$-14,000 $ |
| 2nd Engineer | 6,500$-8,500 $ | 7,500$-9,500 $ |
| 3rd Engineer | 4,000$-4,800 $ | 4,000$-5,000 $ |
| 4th Engineer | 2,400$-3,600$ | 2,600$-4,200 $ |
| Engine Cadet | 350$-750 $ | 350$-750 $ |
It may take approximately 8 to 14 years for an engineer to progress from an Engine Cadet to the rank of Chief Engineer. This timeline includes the required sea time, acquiring necessary certifications, and gaining experience at each rank.
Hierarchy and Salary of an Engineer working in Public Sector Undertaking through GATE
- In India, engineers often aspire to work in Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) and private sector companies through the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE).
- PSUs offer job security and competitive salaries, while private sector positions may provide higher compensation but are often more competitive.
| Rank | Salary per month (Rs) | Service |
| Executive Director | 1.5-3 Lakhs | Selection |
| Group General Manager | 1.2-2.8 Lakhs | Selection |
| General Manager | 1.2-2.8 Lakhs | Selection |
| Deputy General Manager | 1-2.6 Lakhs | Selection |
| Chief Engineer/Manager | 90,000-2.4 Lakhs | 4 Years |
| Superintending Engineer/ Manager | 80,000-2.2 Lakhs | 5 Years |
| Senior Officer/ Executive Engineer | 70,000-2 Lakhs | 4 Years |
| Officer/ Asst. Executive Engineer | 60,000-1.8 Lakhs | 2 Years |
Hierarchy and Salary of an engineer working in the Private sector
- In the private sector, the hierarchy and salary structure for engineers can vary widely depending on the industry and specialization. Engineers in private companies typically follow a hierarchical progression from entry-level positions to more senior roles, with corresponding salary increases.
| Ranks | Position | Avg. Salary (Rs) |
| Chief Engineer | Chief engineering office & head of the department | 60 Lakhs |
| VP of Engineering | Vice president of engineering & engineering executive | 50 Lakhs |
| Director of Engineering | Principal engineer & lead engineer | 23 lakhs |
| Engineering Manager | Program manager & senior engineer | 6 Lakhs |
| Individual Contributors | Project manager, quality engineer, manufacturing engineer & data engineer | 4 Lakhs |
| Entry Levels | Junior Engineer, asst. Engineer & intern | 3 Lakhs |
Merchant Navy or Oil Rig which is better?
Difference between a Graduate Marine Engineer vs. Mechanical Engineer
Work Environment
- Marine Engineer: Works in a unique and challenging environment on ships and maritime vessels, often facing harsh weather conditions and exposure to sea life.
- Mechanical Engineer: Operates in a variety of settings, including offices, factories, and research and development facilities. The work environment is typically less extreme compared to marine engineers.
Salary
- Marine Engineer: Salary is more influenced by the type of vessels they work on, contract duration, and company policies. Earnings can vary significantly throughout the year.
- Mechanical Engineer: Tends to have a more stable income, with salary fluctuations being less dependent on the type of projects or contracts. Income can be relatively consistent year-round.
Lifestyle
- Marine Engineer: Often spends extended periods away from family due to ship contracts, leading to a less social life during these periods.
- Mechanical Engineer: Typically enjoys a more regular daily routine and can stay with their family daily, resulting in a more social lifestyle.
Holidays
- Marine Engineer: May have longer holidays or extended leave periods between contracts, allowing them to stay at their native place or take extended vacations.
- Mechanical Engineer: Typically has fewer extended holidays and may need to relocate for work opportunities more frequently.
Work Schedule
- Marine Engineer: Often has an irregular or unpredictable work schedule due to the nature of ship operations.
- Mechanical Engineer: Generally follows a fixed work schedule, which is more structured and predictable.
Can mechanical engineers join the merchant navy?
Answer– Yes, mechanical engineers can pursue a career in the merchant navy by following several steps. First, they need to pass an entrance exam, such as the Graduate Marine Engineering (GME) entrance test, to gain admission to a maritime institution or college.
After enrollment, they undergo a one-year Graduate Marine Engineering (GME) course, followed by a cadetship for hands-on experience. Subsequently, they work towards obtaining a Marine Engineer Officer (MEO) Class 4 Certificate of Competency.
Once qualified, they can begin their career as marine engineers in the merchant navy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the choice between Graduate Marine Engineering (GME) and Mechanical Engineering is a significant decision for aspiring engineers. GME offers a unique marine environment, while Mechanical Engineering offers versatility. Consider your interests, career goals, and lifestyle preferences to make an informed choice for a fulfilling engineering career.
Merchant Navy or Software Engineering | Which Career to Choose | 2023
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