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1St Assistant Engineer Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

Job Summary Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution is currently searching for a First Assistant Engineer for R/V Atlantis in December 2026. Reporting to the Chief Engineer and assisting with duties; is ...

Channel Assist Engineer

New York, NY · On-site +1

$50.62 - $94.90/hr

A Channel Assist Engineer works in the Global Service Channel Assist group and provides remote ... A customer-first attitude * Demonstrated good remote communication skills * Demonstrated good ...

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Showing results 1-20

1St Assistant Engineer information

See New York salary details

$36.1K

$97.1K

$147.1K

How much do 1st assistant engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for 1st assistant engineer in New York is $97,100.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $77,100.00 and $114,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a 1st assistant engineer?

A 1st Assistant Engineer, also known as the First Assistant Engineer or First Assistant, is a licensed officer in the engine department on ships. They are responsible for overseeing the daily operation and maintenance of the ship’s engine room, machinery, and technical equipment. The 1st Assistant Engineer assists the Chief Engineer and supervises junior engineers and crew to ensure efficient and safe operations. Their tasks include monitoring engine performance, troubleshooting mechanical issues, and ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations.

What are the typical responsibilities of a 1st assistant engineer during a voyage, and how do they interact with other crew members?

As a 1st Assistant Engineer, your primary responsibilities during a voyage include supervising engine room operations, maintaining mechanical and electrical systems, and overseeing routine inspections and repairs. You will collaborate closely with the Chief Engineer to ensure the vessel's machinery runs smoothly and safely, and you’ll also direct and mentor junior engineering staff. Effective communication with deck officers and other departments is essential for coordinating maintenance schedules and responding to any technical issues that arise. This role is hands-on and requires adaptability, especially when addressing unexpected problems at sea.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a 1st assistant engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a 1st Assistant Engineer, you need a solid background in marine engineering, mechanical systems, and a valid STCW certification or equivalent maritime license. Familiarity with engine room management systems, auxiliary machinery, and preventive maintenance software is essential. Strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are critical soft skills for managing engine room teams and responding to emergencies. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient operation of the ship’s machinery and compliance with international maritime regulations.

What is the difference between 1St Assistant Engineer vs 2nd Assistant Engineer?

Aspect1St Assistant Engineer2nd Assistant Engineer
Required CertificationsEngineering degree, relevant licensesEngineering degree, relevant licenses
Work EnvironmentSupervises technical staff, oversees operationsSupports senior engineers, handles routine tasks
Employer & Industry UsageMaritime, manufacturing, power plantsMaritime, manufacturing, power plants
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for responsibilities and career progression

The 1St Assistant Engineer typically holds more responsibilities, supervises technical staff, and oversees operations, whereas the 2nd Assistant Engineer supports senior engineers with routine tasks. Both roles require similar certifications and are common in maritime and industrial industries. The main difference lies in the level of responsibility and leadership within the engineering team.

What are popular job titles related to 1St Assistant Engineer jobs in New York?

For 1St Assistant Engineer jobs in New York, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching 1St Assistant Engineer jobs in New York look for?

The top searched job categories for 1St Assistant Engineer jobs in New York are:

What cities in New York are hiring for 1St Assistant Engineer jobs?

Cities in New York with the most 1St Assistant Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various 1St Assistant Engineer job openings in New York as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $97,100 per year, or $46.7 per hour.

First Assistant Engineer

Iselin, NJ • On-site

$57.87/hr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Job Summary

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution is currently searching for a First Assistant Engineer for R/V Atlantis in December 2026. Reporting to the Chief Engineer and assisting with duties; is responsible for the proper operation, maintenance, and safety of all engine department machinery, equipment, and spaces; for the conduct and performance of engine personnel; and for economical use of consumable supplies and stores.

Job Description

Plans, assigns, and supervises work of engine department personnel; assists the Chief Engineer in planning maintenance and repair schedules with regard to ship's schedule ensuring periodic machine inspections and major repairs are accomplished in port. Reports condition of engine department equipment, machinery, and personnel; unusual developments; and repair progress. Maintains a machinery log of repair dates, spare parts, and consumable supplies. Monitors engine department, stores and prepares requisitions. Maintains HVAC systems, checks refrigeration plant, and ensures safety devices are in proper working condition. Stands engine room watch, supervises Oiler, and ensures watches are stood properly and orders carried out. Keeps a log of all watch operations and conditions, including unusual occurrences and emergency signals. Supervises and assists, while in port, with maintenance and repair of engine room equipment and spaces, and in loading freshwater bunkers. Proficiency in the following: Diesel engines, electrical maintenance and troubleshooting, electronics, hydraulics, reading of both hydraulic and electrical schematics, HVAC equipment, and air compressors. Performs other duties as required.

Bachelor's degree from an accredited sea service academy and four years' sea duty as an engineering officer; in the absence of a formal degree, equivalent work experience.

Candidates must possess computer literacy in the use of word-processing, inventory and database management, ship's stability, and electronic mail programs. Prefer First Assistant Engineer experience on similar research vessel.

Candidates must have a high level of training as evidenced by a U.S. Coast Guard license, preferable First Assistant Engineering Unlimited Horsepower, Motor Vessels. Minimum licensing for R/V Neil Armstrong and R/V Atlantis requires an unlimited Horsepower, Motor Vessels, Oceans. In addition to the above, all licensed officers must have all applicable training as required by the Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW 95) and possess a valid U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariners Credential and Transportation Workers Identification Credential (TWIC) and hold an unexpired Passport. Candidates must have good communication and personnel management skills, and in-depth understanding of the proper operation and maintenance of ship's engines and related equipment, and demonstrate good safety practices and procedures. Must be able to pass a DOT Pre-employment drug screen. Must hold an Unexpired (STCW Expiration date) USCG med Certificate.

Additional Job Requirements

Hourly Rate $57.87: The hourly rate provided for this position reflects the set base pay for new hires.Annual compensation will be based on this hourly rate and the number of hours worked, in accordance with applicable wage and hour laws. In addition to hourly pay, eligible employees may also receive a comprehensive benefits package.

All marine positions have essential functions that personnel must be able to perform, minimum physical capacities and requirements that all personnel must meet, and working conditions that may be considered hazardous. Working at least 8 hours per day and, at times in excess of 12 hours per day, 7 days per week. Work at sea for three to five months continuously. Live and work in cramped quarters, frequently in bad weather and with violent ship motion. Pass examinations for visual acuity, color sense, and hearing as established in Title 46 CFR Parts 10 and 12, and pass a physical evaluation as described in the enclosed Navigation and Vessel Inspection Articles 6-89. Climb steep and vertical ladders, and enter and exit compartments through hatches, doors, and sills up to two feet high. Participate in emergency drills and in launching lifeboats and life rafts. Perform physical labor, climb and handle moderate weights and equipment over 50 pounds. Physical Capability Example of Essential Function Balance Work in confined and unstable areas. Bend, kneel, squat Clean, maintain, and inspect equipment. Climb Reach work areas, equipment and stores by ladder and stairs. Crawl Crawl through bilge pockets, and under ladders and winch beds. Feel Touch objects: where sight is limited. Finger Manipulate nuts, bolts, tools, and cleaning gear. Handle Handle equipment and stores with sure grip. Hear, talk Communicate with people. Lift, carry Load stores over 50 pounds. Push, pull Move equipment over 50 pounds. Reach Up, over, and under equipment and stores. See Read labels, menus, logs, charts, and gauges in poor lighting. Sit Operate crane, Avon, lifeboat, and life raft. Stand Work on equipment. Walk Perform rounds at sea. Write Maintain logs. Work Condition Example of Hazardous Area/Duty Confined areas Store rooms, engine spaces, and tanks Potential allergens and irritants Fuels, solvents, cleaners, dust, fumes, smoke, and gases Adverse weather On deck in rough seas during equipment maintenance Extreme temperatures On deck in tropics and high latitudes; in engine room Potential hazards Being at sea; slippery and uneven surfaces; moving parts and objects; climbing ladders; and working aloft Noise Constant and loud engine room noise, blowers, exhaust fans Schedule Protracted and irregular working hours Vibrations Ship's engines and chipping hammer.

WHOI accepts applications on a rolling basis - applications will be reviewed as they are received, and we encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible to ensure full consideration. While we will continue to review applications until the position is filled, and early applicants may have an advantage in the selection process.

EEO Statement

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.