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1St Assistant Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

GovFirst

Marine/Maritime Assistant Engineer

Surry, VA · On-site

Marine/Maritime Assistant Engineer Location: Surry, VA Employment Type: Full-Time (W2) GovFirst is ... Ability to obtain and maintain First Aid and CPR certifications. Required Work Authorization:

GovFirst

Marine/Maritime Assistant Engineer

Surry, VA · On-site

Marine/Maritime Assistant Engineer Location: Surry, VA Employment Type: Full-Time (W2) GovFirst is ... Ability to obtain and maintain First Aid and CPR certifications. Required Work Authorization: Must ...

PRWT Services, Inc.

Marine Assistant Engineer

Surry, VA · On-site

$45 - $52.88/hr

... Assistant Engineer at the Jamestown Scotland Ferry operating and monitoring main engine and ... Obtain and Maintain 1st Aid and CPR Certifications * Limited Chief or Chief Unlimited Experience ...

gCaptain

Refrigeration Engineer

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$106.93/hr

He/she works under the supervision to the First Assistant Engineer, and performs other duties as assigned. Everything in this Position Description is considered to be an essential function of this ...

Emprise Corporation

Senior Marine Engineer

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$101K - $139K/yr

... First Assistant Engineer * Experience gained while serving in the military may be applicable towards meeting this requirement * Experience must demonstrate effective management of maintenance and ...

gCaptain

Damage Control Officer (DCO)

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$163.81 - $200.21/hr

Chief Engineer or First Assistant Engineer (Steam, Motor, or Gas Turbine vessels of Any Horsepower). STCW Certificate that should accompany the Merchant Mariner Credentials (MMC). Able Seafarer ...

Alutiiq

Chief Engineer

Arlington, VA

... Assistant Engineer License (Steam, Motor, or Gas Turbine vessels, any horsepower) U.S. State ... 1st Class Steam Engineer License within 2 years of hire) Secret security clearance required ...

Alutiiq, LLC

Chief Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

United States Coast Guard Third Assistant Engineer License (Steam, Motor, or Gas Turbine vessels ... Must hold a District of Columbia (DC) 3rd Class Steam Engineer License (and obtain 1st Class Steam ...

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Showing results 1-20

All Jobs1St Engineer Jobs1St Assistant Engineer Jobs1St Assistant Engineer Jobs in Virginia

1St Assistant Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$32.7K

$88K

$133.3K

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

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for 1st assistant engineer in Virginia is $87,993.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,900.00 and $103,600.00 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 Virginia?

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

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

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

1St Assistant Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various 1St Assistant Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $87,993 per year, or $42.3 per hour.

Marine/Maritime Assistant Engineer

GovFirst

Surry, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description


Job Title: Marine/Maritime Assistant Engineer
Location: Surry, VA
Employment Type: Full-Time (W2)
GovFirst is seeking a qualified and safety-focused Marine/Maritime Assistant Engineer to support ferry operations at the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry in Surry, VA. This position is responsible for operating, monitoring, maintaining, and repairing main engines and auxiliary machinery to ensure the safe and efficient operation of ferry vessels while protecting passengers, crew members, and equipment. The successful candidate will also support vessel security, emergency response, regulatory compliance, and engineering documentation.
Responsibilities:
  • Operate and monitor main engines, auxiliary machinery, and vessel systems in accordance with U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) regulations, VDOT policies, and accepted marine engineering practices.
  • Perform routine inspections, preventive maintenance, and minor repairs on vessel machinery and mechanical systems.
  • Diagnose equipment deficiencies and promptly notify the Captain of any mechanical or operational concerns.
  • Maintain vessel readiness for U.S. Coast Guard inspections and regulatory compliance.
  • Assist with troubleshooting and repair of primary and auxiliary vessel systems.
  • Record and document daily fuel readings and machinery operating data.
  • Maintain accurate engineering logs, maintenance records, machinery usage reports, and other required documentation.
  • Submit engineering reports and operational records according to established schedules.
  • Maintain documentation supporting preventive maintenance and equipment performance.
  • Participate in required emergency drills and crew training exercises.
  • Maintain readiness to respond to mechanical failures and onboard emergencies.
  • Monitor vessel security and remain alert to suspicious behavior or security violations.
  • Ensure engine room security doors and restricted-access compartments remain secured.
  • Report all safety, security, and operational concerns promptly.
  • Support emergency operations outside normal working hours when required, as VDOT serves as an emergency response agency.
  • Provide information and assistance to passengers in a professional manner.
  • Resolve passenger concerns courteously and efficiently.
  • Assist crew members with vessel operations and engineering-related activities.
  • Perform additional duties as assigned by supervisors or the USF Senior Project Manager.

Requirements
Required Qualifications:
  • Minimum of five (5) years of marine engineering or vessel machinery experience.
  • Knowledge of operating and monitoring main engines and auxiliary machinery aboard ferry vessels.
  • Experience working aboard vessels of at least 200 feet and approximately 800 tons.
  • Knowledge of U.S. Coast Guard regulations governing ferry operations.
  • Ability to diagnose, troubleshoot, and repair primary and auxiliary vessel systems.
  • Ability to read and interpret gauges, engineering schematics, technical manuals, and mechanical drawings.
  • Strong recordkeeping and documentation skills.
  • Ability to train and mentor vessel crew members.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Proficiency in the safe use of hand tools and power tools.
Required Education & Credentials:
  • High School Diploma or GED required.
  • U.S. Coast Guard Engineering Credential required.
  • Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) required.
  • Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) endorsed as Assistant Engineer for motor vessels of at least 3,000 HP required.
  • Limited Chief Engineer or Chief Unlimited Engineer credential required.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain First Aid and CPR certifications.
Required Work Authorization:
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Required Licenses, Certifications & Screening:
  • Valid Virginia Driver's License in good standing required.
  • Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • Fingerprint-based Criminal History Records Check (CHRC) required.
  • Pre-employment drug screening required.

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