Image of career: Maritime Data Scientist

Maritime Data Scientist

Overview

Maritime data scientists use machine learning to analyse large amounts of shipping data, making global trade more efficient and environmentally friendly.

Description

  • Analyse large amounts of ship sensor data to discover hidden patterns that improve vessel design and efficiency.
  • Build predictive models and machine learning systems to anticipate equipment breakdowns.
  • Create advanced data visualisations to help teams make informed business decisions.
  • Clean and process raw datasets to ensure accuracy before running scientific analyses.
  • Work with marine engineers, naval architects, and software developers to integrate data science directly into shipbuilding and fleet management.

Entry requirements

  • You need a Degree in Data Science, Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, or Marine Engineering.
  • Strong experience in data mining, machine learning, and data discovery tools is essential. Business understanding to connect data with real maritime challenges is also required.

Salary

$6,400 – 11,300

/mo

Salary ranges are estimated based on public information found on Singaporean job portals, including MyCareersFuture, MySkillsFuture. Updated as of 2026.

Trivia

They work with real-time data from satellites, underwater drones, and cargo ships. They build models that warn ship captains about engine failures weeks ahead of time or redirect vessels around storms, saving millions and preventing disasters.

What to expect

You will need to build strong foundations in coding languages early. You’ll also need to translate complicated findings into simple, actionable insights for ship captains.

Soft
skills

Logical Problem-Solving

Able to break down maritime data problems into manageable steps using technical tools and methods.

Pattern Recognition

Able to spot trends and relationships within data to inform critical shipping and business decisions.

Clear Communication

Able to explain statistical findings to all audiences.

Big Data Analytics

Skilled in analysing and validating huge volumes of maritime data to discover trends.

Machine Learning & Modelling Trained in scientific methods and algorithms to integrate different datasets and build predictive business models.

Trained in scientific methods and algorithms to integrate different datasets and build predictive business models.

Data Visualisation & Storytelling

Able to combine data science with design to present insights through interactive graphics and dashboards.

Hard
skills

Zheng Yang, Maritime Data Scientist
"Through data, technology and innovation, we are changing the industry for the better, getting ships from A to B in a environmentally friendly way."

Zheng Yang, Maritime Data Scientist

MaritimeONE Singapore

Frequently asked questions

While you will learn the basics of the maritime industry on the job, your primary expertise must be in mathematics, statistics, and programming. You work alongside marine engineers who provide ship-building knowledge.

Everything, including real-time GPS tracking of global fleets, fuel consumption rates, engine temperature sensors, weather satellite feeds, and historical cargo logs to predict future shipping trends.

Because raw data is useless unless understood. They must use specialised software to create visual displays and dashboards that clearly show what it means for decision-making.

They're the ones building and training the AI. As maritime moves toward autonomous cargo ships, their role becomes more critical using AI to process weather patterns, ocean currents, and port congestion in real-time.

By optimising shipping routes and predicting exact fuel needs, their data models directly reduce greenhouse gases ships release into the atmosphere, driving clean energy and green shipping initiatives.