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1St Assistant Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

1st AE w/ Tankerman PIC

Annapolis, MD

$79K - $106K/yr

1st Assistant Engineer w/ Tankerman PIC Job Summary Looking for a 1st Assistant Engineer for a hitch onboard a deepwater offshore drillship operating in the Gulf. This is a working engineering ...

Assistant Engineers work with the Chief Engineer to maintain all onboard machinery, ensuring safe ... Vessel officers are eligible to enroll on the first day of the month after a one-month waiting ...

Showing results 41-60

1St Assistant Engineer information

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$33K

$88.8K

$134.5K

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

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for 1st assistant engineer in the United States is $88,754.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,500.00 and $104,500.00 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.

More about 1St Assistant Engineer jobs

What cities are hiring for 1St Assistant Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most 1St Assistant Engineer job openings:

What states have the most 1St Assistant Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for 1St Assistant Engineer jobs include:

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

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

Infographic showing various 1St Assistant Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $88,754 per year, or $42.7 per hour.

1ST ASSISTANT ENGINEER (DR)

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

Memphis, TN • On-site, Remote

$40.93 - $47.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Summary
This is a Direct Hire Authority (DHA) solicitation utilizing the DHA for Certain Personnel of the DoD Workforce to recruit and appoint qualified candidates to positions in the competitive service.
About the Position: This position is located with the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers, Memphis District, Operations Division, Navigation Branch, Dredge Hurley, Memphis, TN 38103. Duty location is wherever the Dredge Hurley is located.
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Duties
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  • Inspecting engine room machinery to ensure continuous operating efficiency.
  • Operating, maintaining, and repairing all engine room machinery and equipment on a diesel towboat.
  • Conducting periodic inspections of all equipment for deficiencies in operation and need for repairs.
  • Checking all water systems to assure proper chlorination in drinking water and proper chemicals for sedimentation and other purposes.
  • Discussing feasibility of repairs and methods and procedures to be followed by crew on other watches.

Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • Appointment may be subject to a suitability or fitness determination, as determined by a completed background investigation.
  • This position is subject to random drug and alcohol test screenings.
  • Pre-employment Physical Examination and an annual examination thereafter to ensure the continued, required level of physical health and ability or fitness to perform the duties of the position.
  • Incumbent must be able to lift at least 40 pounds or more
  • Required to possess a U.S. Coast Guard Chief Engineer's Limited Oceans license or Chief Engineer near Coastals of at least 6,000 horsepower (MUST ATTACH LICENSE).
  • See Additional Information Section for additional conditions of employment.

Qualifications
Work Schedule: During the dredging season, typically May through November, all Hurley crew members, including this position, work a 15 days on/6 days off schedule, with the work period beginning and ending on Wednesdays. On the 15 work days, employees remain on the Dredge Hurley and are provided meals and lodging. This position works a 12 hour shift, and may rotate between day and night shifts. During the non-dredging season, the crew works day shift only, with the vessel based at Ensley Engineer Yard, Memphis, TN, on either a 5-day/8-hour or 4-day/10-hr. During the dredging season, the Dredge Hurley will work in widespread locations in the Mississippi River, including up to 90 days in the vicinity of Baton Rouge, LA.
Who May Apply: US Citizens
In order to qualify, you must meet the experience requirements described below. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student; social). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Your resume must clearly describe your relevant experience; if qualifying based on education, your transcripts will be required as part of your application. Additional information about transcripts is in this document.
There is no specific length of training or experience required. However, you must be able to demonstrate, through experience shown in your written application materials that you possess the sufficient knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the work of this position without more than normal supervision.
Minimum Qualifications (Screen Out Element): Ability to do the work of a 1st Assistant Engineer (DR) without more than normal supervision. Conducting periodic inspections of machinery and observes gauges, checking oil levels, motor generators, gearbox, generator temperatures, fuel levels, etc.; checking and controlling operation of heating, refrigerating, plumbing, and water supply systems for the dredge; investigating and determining the cause and remedial action necessary when noting unusual or unnatural condition in machinery operations; advising Chief Engineer and taking corrective action in accordance with his instructions; and assisting in making repairs to engine room and auxiliary machinery. - Failure to meet this Screen Out Element will result in an ineligible rating.
NOTE: This position is dual-rated to the position of Chief Engineer PLD Class 1, XH-4742-16. If qualified and possesses appropriate U.S. Coast guard License / Certification, incumbent may be assigned to perform the duties of this position during the absence of the Chief Engineer in a dual-rated capacity.
  • Physical Effort: Incumbent performs work from ladders, scaffolding, and platforms and where the parts, equipment, or systems are in hard-to-reach places. Work requires the incumbent to stand, stoop, bend, kneel, climb and work in a tiring and uncomfortable position. Frequently lifts, carries, and sets up parts and equipment that weigh up to 40 pounds.
  • Working Conditions: Work is performed inside and outside subjecting employee to varying climatic conditions, abnormal noises, temperature, danger of burns, irritation.

Education
This job does not have an education qualification requirement.
Additional information
  • Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must complete a Pre-Employment Certification Statement for Selective Service Registration.
  • You will be required to provide proof of U.S. Citizenship.
  • This position requires a 1 year probationary period during which the agency evaluates your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. In making this determination, the agency may consider your performance and conduct; agency needs and interests; whether your continued employment supports organizational or Government goals; and whether it promotes the efficiency of the Federal service. Continued employment requires written certification that it advances the public interest.
  • Direct Deposit of Pay is required.
  • Selection is subject to restrictions resulting from Department of Defense referral system for displaced employees.
  • If you have retired from federal service and you are interested in employment as a reemployed annuitant, see the information in the Reemployed Annuitant information sheet.
  • This is a(n) Installations Career Field position.
  • Multiple positions may be filled from this announcement.
  • Salary includes applicable locality pay or Local Market Supplement.
  • Payment of Permanent Change of Station (PCS) costs is not authorized, based on a determination that a PCS move is not in the Government interest.
  • Required to possess a U.S. Coast Guard Chief Engineer's Limited Oceans license or Chief Engineer near Coastals of at least 6,000 horsepower (h.p.)commensurate with the type engine room machinery and equipment, horsepower, and characteristics of the vessel to which assigned.
  • This position is covered by the DOT rules and USACE ER 690-1-1218. May be subject to random alcohol and drug testing on an unannounced basis. Incumbent is required to sign a DA Form 7412, "Condition of Employment for Certain Civilian Positions Identified Safety-Sensitive Under The Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration Rules on Drug and Alcohol Testing" or a Memorandum of Understanding.

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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
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Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

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About Army Corps of Engineers

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

National security, national security and international affairs and public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US