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3Rd Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Third Mates work alongside Deckhands and Engineers completing watch standing, maintenance, sanitation, and logistics tasks. Third Mates operate and maintain our 35ft-50ft certificated passenger ...

Third Mates work alongside Deckhands and Engineers completing watch standing, maintenance, sanitation, and logistics tasks. Third Mates operate and maintain our 35ft-50ft certificated passenger ...

Third Mates work alongside Deckhands and Engineers completing watch standing, maintenance, sanitation, and logistics tasks. Third Mates operate and maintain our 35ft-50ft certificated passenger ...

Third Mates work alongside Deckhands and Engineers completing watch standing, maintenance, sanitation, and logistics tasks. Third Mates operate and maintain our 35ft-50ft certificated passenger ...

Third Mates work alongside Deckhands and Engineers completing watch standing, maintenance, sanitation, and logistics tasks. Third Mates operate and maintain our 35ft-50ft certificated passenger ...

Third Mates work alongside Deckhands and Engineers completing watch standing, maintenance, sanitation, and logistics tasks. Third Mates operate and maintain our 35ft-50ft certificated passenger ...

Third Mates work alongside Deckhands and Engineers completing watch standing, maintenance, sanitation, and logistics tasks. Third Mates operate and maintain our 35ft-50ft certificated passenger ...

Third Mates work alongside Deckhands and Engineers completing watch standing, maintenance, sanitation, and logistics tasks. Third Mates operate and maintain our 35ft-50ft certificated passenger ...

Third Mates work alongside Deckhands and Engineers completing watch standing, maintenance, sanitation, and logistics tasks. Third Mates operate and maintain our 35ft-50ft certificated passenger ...

Third Mates work alongside Deckhands and Engineers completing watch standing, maintenance, sanitation, and logistics tasks. Third Mates operate and maintain our 35ft-50ft certificated passenger ...

Third Mates work alongside Deckhands and Engineers completing watch standing, maintenance, sanitation, and logistics tasks. Third Mates operate and maintain our 35ft-50ft certificated passenger ...

Third Mates work alongside Deckhands and Engineers completing watch standing, maintenance, sanitation, and logistics tasks. Third Mates operate and maintain our 35ft-50ft certificated passenger ...

Third Mates work alongside Deckhands and Engineers completing watch standing, maintenance, sanitation, and logistics tasks. Third Mates operate and maintain our 35ft-50ft certificated passenger ...

Third Mates work alongside Deckhands and Engineers completing watch standing, maintenance, sanitation, and logistics tasks. Third Mates operate and maintain our 35ft-50ft certificated passenger ...

Third Mates work alongside Deckhands and Engineers completing watch standing, maintenance, sanitation, and logistics tasks. Third Mates operate and maintain our 35ft-50ft certificated passenger ...

Third Mates work alongside Deckhands and Engineers completing watch standing, maintenance, sanitation, and logistics tasks. Third Mates operate and maintain our 35ft-50ft certificated passenger ...

Third Mates work alongside Deckhands and Engineers completing watch standing, maintenance, sanitation, and logistics tasks. Third Mates operate and maintain our 35ft-50ft certificated passenger ...

Third Mates work alongside Deckhands and Engineers completing watch standing, maintenance, sanitation, and logistics tasks. Third Mates operate and maintain our 35ft-50ft certificated passenger ...

Third Mates work alongside Deckhands and Engineers completing watch standing, maintenance, sanitation, and logistics tasks. Third Mates operate and maintain our 35ft-50ft certificated passenger ...

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3Rd Engineer information

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$39K

$101.8K

$137.5K

How much do 3rd engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for 3rd engineer in the United States is $101,752.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,000.00 and $116,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a 3rd Engineer, you need a solid grounding in marine engineering principles, an engineering degree or maritime academy certification, and a valid STCW license. Familiarity with shipboard machinery, engine room management systems, and maintenance tools is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are essential to ensure vessel safety, efficient operations, and compliance with international maritime regulations.

What are the typical responsibilities of a 3rd Engineer on board a vessel, and how do they contribute to the smooth operation of the engineering department?

A 3rd Engineer is primarily responsible for maintaining and operating auxiliary machinery, such as pumps, generators, and air compressors, under the supervision of senior engineers. They often handle daily engine room checks, perform scheduled maintenance, and assist with repairs as needed. The 3rd Engineer also helps ensure compliance with safety regulations and keeps detailed records of engine performance. By supporting the Chief and 2nd Engineers, they play a crucial role in the overall efficiency and safety of the vessel’s engineering operations, gaining valuable hands-on experience for career advancement.

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

Aspect3Rd Engineer2Nd Engineer
CertificationsTypically required to have a relevant engineering degree and basic certificationsRequires higher-level certifications and more extensive experience
Work EnvironmentAssists in routine maintenance and repairs, often working under supervisionHandles more complex tasks, often supervising junior engineers
Industry UsageCommonly employed on ships, offshore platforms, and industrial plantsWorks alongside 3rd Engineers, often with more responsibilities

The 3Rd Engineer and 2Nd Engineer roles are both vital in engineering teams, especially in maritime and industrial settings. The 2Nd Engineer generally has more experience, higher certifications, and greater responsibilities compared to the 3Rd Engineer. Understanding these differences helps in career planning and job expectations within the industry.

What are 3rd Engineers?

A 3rd Engineer, also known as Third Engineer or Third Assistant Engineer, is a licensed member of the engine department on a merchant ship. They are responsible for operating, maintaining, and repairing the ship's machinery, such as engines, generators, and pumps, under the supervision of senior engineers. 3rd Engineers usually stand watch, monitor equipment, and ensure that all engineering systems function safely and efficiently. They play an essential role in the smooth operation of a ship’s engine room and overall safety at sea.
More about 3Rd Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for 3Rd Engineer jobs? Cities with the most 3Rd Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of 3Rd Engineer jobs? The most popular types of 3Rd Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most 3Rd Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for 3Rd Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various 3Rd Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,752 per year, or $48.9 per hour.
Third Mate

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted yesterday


Job description

Third Mate
American Cruise Lines is seeking Third Mates for our growing fleet sailing unique itineraries along inland and coastal waterways of the East Coast, Pacific Northwest, Columbia-Snake Rivers, Great Lakes, and Mississippi-Ohio-Cumberland-Tennessee-Arkansas Rivers. Our U.S. flag ships are state-of-the art designed for safe operation and five-star service to 100-200 guests.
Third Mates are responsible for safe vessel and launch operations, adherence to company and regulatory standards, and representing the company as a professional leader and example. Our Third Mates are licensed mariners with basic maritime experience and keen interest in gaining experience in challenging U.S. coastal and river waterways. Our Third Mates are team-oriented, self-disciplined, and hands-on workers. Third Mates work alongside Deckhands and Engineers completing watch standing, maintenance, sanitation, and logistics tasks. Third Mates operate and maintain our 35ft-50ft certificated passenger launches. Our Third Mates are people-oriented professionals and meticulous officers, in service to our guests and as examples to our crews.
Third mates enjoy comfortable onboard accommodations and chef prepared meals. American Cruise Lines operates our own bridge simulator, enabling rigorous recurrent training and development focused on critical decision-making and advanced piloting skills. American Cruise Lines recruits and retains the best professional mariners in the industry.
At American Cruise Lines, we are driven by our values-Optimism, Commitment, Patriotism, and Merit. These values shape our culture, our service, and our people, guiding us as we work together to Share America's Story on the Finest American Ships.
Responsibilities:
  • Ensure safety and security of passengers, crew, and vessel.
  • Safe launch operations in compliance with company and regulatory standards.
  • Conduct daily inspections of all vessel spaces.
  • Standing helm, security, gangway watches in Deckhand rotation.
  • Execution of vessel cleaning, sanitation, maintenance, and logistics.
  • Standing piloting watches under instruction of Captain or Mate.
  • Assisting Engine Room Attendant with machinery and system maintenance.
  • Support hotel and culinary teams in delivering five-star guest service.
  • Maintain logs, reports, and administrative records.
  • Maintain exemplary professional grooming and uniform appearance

Work Schedule:
  • Typical March through November Cruise Season: 6 weeks on / 3 weeks off or 4 weeks on / 4 weeks off. Additional work periods may be possible during winter months aboard the few vessels operating or repositioning year-round.
  • This is a full-time, exempt position.

Qualifications:
  • U.S. Coast Guard Master's license: Masters 100T.
  • Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
  • Piloting and Boat Handling experience on coastal and river waterways: minimum 6months, desired 1yr.
  • Self-disciplined work habits and personal grooming.
  • Good communication skills and team skills.
  • Pre-employment drug test and continual participation in random testing.
  • Ability to perform the essential functions of the job with or without accommodation.

Essential Functions:
  • Ships experience forces from wind, waves, and currents, prompting them to exhibit six distinct motions known as ship motions. The six motions are surge, sway, heave, roll, pitch, and yaw. This position requires the ability to live and satisfactorily perform job duties in an environment that is subject to constant motion.
  • Ability to work around 12 hours per day.
  • Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening, and passing through a 20" diameter hatch.
  • Ability to stand for your entire shift.
  • Ability to frequently lift up to 20 lbs. and occasionally lift up to 50 lbs.
  • Ability to frequently bend, squat and reach.
  • Ability to live and work on board a vessel for extended periods of time.
  • Ability to use stairs frequently.

Compensation and Benefits:
  • Competitive daily rate.
  • Health, dental, vision, and 401(k) with match.
  • Access to advanced simulator-based training.
  • Covered Expenses: American Cruise Lines provides travel, room and board, uniforms, and training

Applicant Acknowledgment
By proceeding to apply for the above position, I acknowledge that I have read and understand the description of the job position for which I am applying, I agree that it accurately reflects the essential functions of the position, and I represent that I can complete the essential functions of the position.
Equal Opportunity Employer
American Cruise Lines is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants. ‎American Cruise Lines bases all employment decisions on business needs, job requirements, and individual ‎qualifications without regard to protected characteristics, including, but not limited to, race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin and citizenship, age (40 and over), disability (including perceived disability), generic information, military service, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local law. ‎This policy applies to all aspects of employment and employment decisions, including, but not limited to, ‎hiring, selection, job assignment, training, compensation, promotion, discipline, termination, and access ‎to benefits.‎
*Job sites across the nation.
This job description is not intended to be a comprehensive list of the duties and responsibilities of the position and such duties and responsibilities may change without notice.