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3Rd Assistant Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

ssc

Engineer - Marine

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$77K - $104K/yr

Engineering Officer - Assistant Engineer Limited. (3rd Assistant Engineer of Motor Propelled Vessels Unlimited Horsepower preferred), QMED-Any Rating, Lifeboatman, Ordinary Seaman, Wiper, Steward ...

Curtin Maritime, Corp

OSV Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$450 - $875/day

Thorough recordkeeping and reporting to Chief Engineer Assistant Engineer - $450 - $650/day LICENSES & REQUIREMENTS: * 3rd Assistant Engineer * STCW OICEW * Passport PREFERRED LICENSES & REQUIREMENTS:

Savage

Engineer - Marine

Long Beach, CA · On-site

Engineering Officer - Assistant Engineer Limited. (3rd Assistant Engineer of Motor Propelled Vessels Unlimited Horsepower preferred), QMED-Any Rating, Lifeboatman, Ordinary Seaman, Wiper, Steward ...

T-Solutions, Inc.

Port Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

S. Coast Guard (USCG) Merchant Marine Third Assistant Engineer (unlimited) or higher with a minimum of two years sea time as a USCG licensed merchant marine engineer. License may be active or ...

T-Solutions, Inc.

Port Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

S. Coast Guard (USCG) Merchant Marine Third Assistant Engineer (unlimited) or higher with a minimum of two years sea time as a USCG licensed merchant marine engineer. License may be active or ...

T-Solutions, Inc.

Port Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

S. Coast Guard (USCG) Merchant Marine Third Assistant Engineer (unlimited) or higher with a minimum of two years sea time as a USCG licensed merchant marine engineer. License may be active or ...

T-Solutions, Inc.

Port Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

S. Coast Guard (USCG) Merchant Marine Third Assistant Engineer (unlimited) or higher with a minimum of two years sea time as a USCG licensed merchant marine engineer. License may be active or ...

T-Solutions, Inc.

Port Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

S. Coast Guard (USCG) Merchant Marine Third Assistant Engineer (unlimited) or higher with a minimum of two years sea time as a USCG licensed merchant marine engineer. License may be active or ...

T-Solutions, Inc.

Port Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

S. Coast Guard (USCG) Merchant Marine Third Assistant Engineer (unlimited) or higher with a minimum of two years sea time as a USCG licensed merchant marine engineer. License may be active or ...

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All Jobs3Rd Engineer Jobs3Rd Assistant Engineer Jobs3Rd Assistant Engineer Jobs in California

3Rd Assistant Engineer information

See California salary details

$32.6K

$87.6K

$132.7K

How much do 3rd assistant engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for 3rd assistant engineer in California is $87,592.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,600.00 and $103,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a 3rd assistant engineer?

A 3rd Assistant Engineer, also known as a Third Engineer, is a licensed member of the engineering department on a merchant ship. They are responsible for maintaining and operating the ship’s machinery, including engines, pumps, and electrical systems under the supervision of senior engineers. Their duties often include performing scheduled maintenance, monitoring equipment performance, and responding to machinery emergencies. This role is typically an entry-level officer position for marine engineers who have completed relevant maritime training and certification.

What is the difference between 3Rd Assistant Engineer vs 2Nd Assistant Engineer?

Aspect3Rd Assistant Engineer2Nd Assistant Engineer
Required CertificationsDiploma or equivalent in engineeringBachelor's degree in engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentAssisting in routine maintenance and operationsMore responsibilities in supervision and troubleshooting
Industry UsageCommonly used in shipping, manufacturing, and power plantsUsed in similar industries with increased responsibilities

The main difference between a 3Rd Assistant Engineer and a 2Nd Assistant Engineer lies in their level of responsibility and qualifications. The 3Rd Assistant Engineer typically holds a diploma and performs routine tasks, while the 2Nd Assistant Engineer usually has a bachelor's degree and handles more complex duties. Both roles are essential in engineering operations within industrial and shipping sectors, but the 2Nd Assistant Engineer has a higher level of responsibility and expertise.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a 3rd assistant engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a 3rd Assistant Engineer, you generally need a bachelor's degree in marine engineering or a related field, a valid U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) license, and a solid understanding of shipboard engineering systems. Familiarity with engine room operations, maintenance management systems, and safety protocols is crucial, along with any required STCW certifications. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork set outstanding candidates apart in this role. These competencies ensure the reliable operation and safety of ship machinery, supporting efficient vessel performance and regulatory compliance.

What are the typical responsibilities of a 3rd assistant engineer during a voyage?

As a 3rd Assistant Engineer, your primary responsibilities include monitoring and maintaining the ship’s engine room machinery, assisting with routine inspections, and ensuring equipment is operating safely and efficiently. You’ll often be assigned to a specific watch, working closely with the engineering team to troubleshoot technical issues and carry out scheduled maintenance. This role also involves keeping detailed logs, supporting emergency drills, and collaborating with other departments to ensure smooth vessel operations. Adapting quickly to changing priorities and working in a team-oriented environment are essential for success in this position.
What are popular job titles related to 3Rd Assistant Engineer jobs in California? For 3Rd Assistant Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching 3Rd Assistant Engineer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for 3Rd Assistant Engineer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for 3Rd Assistant Engineer jobs? Cities in California with the most 3Rd Assistant Engineer job openings:
3Rd Assistant Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various 3Rd Assistant Engineer job openings in California 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 $87,592 per year, or $42.1 per hour.

Engine Utility

Crowley Maritime Corporation

San Diego, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Overview

Overview

As a privately held, U.S.-owned and operated company, Crowley provides services to 36 nations and island territories. Our purpose is to bravely advance what's possible to elevate people and planet, with our core values of Integrity, Sustainability and Drive guiding everything we do.

By expanding and innovating our services, we have expanded our footprint in services within the Logistics, Land Transportation, Shipping, Wind and Fuel industries. Crowley and its affiliated companies have generated more than $3.5 billion in annual revenue through our people's focus on excellence and a culture that values everyone's voices and collaboration. 

To continue laying the groundwork and challenge what's possible for our business, we seek to partner with individuals ready to elevate their careers with us

ABOUT US: A key role with the largest Jones Act employer with a diverse fleet of vessels. 

All employees have the opportunity to join the Mariner Employee Resource Group; which is focused on creating a safe, inclusive, and diverse workforce.


Responsibilities

Responsibilities: Crowley is actively hiring a Utility Engineer on our ship assist tug in San Diego. This position requires membership with Seasfarers International Union. 


Qualifications

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications and Credentials:

  • STCW endorsements to match license including but not limited to OICEW, RFPEW, BT, PSC, Adv FF, VPDSD 
  • Designated Duty Engineer 
  • Candidate must have all medical and regulatory training requirements/classes satisfied 
  • Current and valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential 
  • Current and valid Passport - must be able to travel internationally with no felonies, DUI, or other convictions which would restrict entry into Canada or other nations 


Preferred Qualifications:

  • Chief Engineer Unlimited, Chief Limited, First Assistant Engineer, Second Assistant Engineer, Third Assistant Engineer, or Assistant Engineer Limited  
  • Electo-Technical Officer 
  • Caterpillar, ABB and Corvus electrical equipment experience (job requires candidate to operate and maintain the systems aboard the fully electric ship assist tugboat eWolf after a reasonable training period) 

Minimum Experience

  • Experience as an Engineer aboard towing vessel  
  • Demonstrated knowledge of current electronically controlled engines and control system 
  • Experience and ability to troubleshoot and make repairs to ships operating systems such as main engine, propulsion, generator, hydraulics, pumps and electrical 
  • Basic skill level operating a Windows computer 
  • Safety minded self-starter, able to work independently as well as with other crew members 
  • Take pride in craftsmanship and in maintaining their vessel to high company standards 

Expectation:

  • Must have the ability to report to work within 2 hours of notification while on call 
  • Training competencies and assessments as set forth by port cap/eng 

Probation: 90 workings days  

Compensation: As per CBA 

Geographic Area: San Diego Harbor 

Qualifications:

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications and Credentials:

  • STCW endorsements to match license including but not limited to OICEW, RFPEW, BT, PSC, Adv FF, VPDSD 
  • Designated Duty Engineer 
  • Candidate must have all medical and regulatory training requirements/classes satisfied 
  • Current and valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential 
  • Current and valid Passport - must be able to travel internationally with no felonies, DUI, or other convictions which would restrict entry into Canada or other nations 


Preferred Qualifications:

  • Chief Engineer Unlimited, Chief Limited, First Assistant Engineer, Second Assistant Engineer, Third Assistant Engineer, or Assistant Engineer Limited  
  • Electo-Technical Officer 
  • Caterpillar, ABB and Corvus electrical equipment experience (job requires candidate to operate and maintain the systems aboard the fully electric ship assist tugboat eWolf after a reasonable training period) 

Minimum Experience

  • Experience as an Engineer aboard towing vessel  
  • Demonstrated knowledge of current electronically controlled engines and control system 
  • Experience and ability to troubleshoot and make repairs to ships operating systems such as main engine, propulsion, generator, hydraulics, pumps and electrical 
  • Basic skill level operating a Windows computer 
  • Safety minded self-starter, able to work independently as well as with other crew members 
  • Take pride in craftsmanship and in maintaining their vessel to high company standards 

Expectation:

  • Must have the ability to report to work within 2 hours of notification while on call 
  • Training competencies and assessments as set forth by port cap/eng 

Probation: 90 workings days  

Compensation: As per CBA 

Geographic Area: San Diego Harbor 

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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