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Designated Duty Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Engineer

Corpus Christi, TX · On-site

$64K - $136K/yr

... designated duty engineer of motor propelled vessels of less than 500 gross registered tons (GRT) upon near coastal without a horsepower limitation Pay Rates: 12-hour day: $324.25 24-hour day: $648 ...

Engineer

Brownsville, TX · On-site

$64K - $136K/yr

... designated duty engineer of motor propelled vessels of less than 500 gross registered tons (GRT) upon near coastal without a horsepower limitation Pay Rates: 12-hour day: $324.25 24-hour day: $648.90 ...

Engineer

Galveston, TX · On-site

$64K - $136K/yr

... designated duty engineer of motor propelled vessels of less than 500 gross registered tons (GRT) upon near coastal without a horsepower limitation Pay Rates: 12-hour day: $324.25 24-hour day: $648 ...

Engineer

Galveston, TX · On-site

$64K - $136K/yr

... designated duty engineer of motor propelled vessels of less than 500 gross registered tons (GRT) upon near coastal without a horsepower limitation Pay Rates: 12-hour day: $324.25 24-hour day: $648 ...

Engineer

Corpus Christi, TX · On-site

$64K - $136K/yr

... designated duty engineer of motor propelled vessels of less than 500 gross registered tons (GRT) upon near coastal without a horsepower limitation Pay Rates: 12-hour day: $324.25 24-hour day: $648 ...

Engineer

Brownsville, TX · On-site

$64K - $136K/yr

... designated duty engineer of motor propelled vessels of less than 500 gross registered tons (GRT) upon near coastal without a horsepower limitation Pay Rates: 12-hour day: $324.25 24-hour day: $648.90 ...

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How much do designated duty engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for designated duty engineer in the United States is $32.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $36.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Designated Duty Engineer, you need a solid background in marine engineering, operational procedures, and a relevant engineering license or certificate of competency. Familiarity with maintenance management systems, engine room monitoring tools, and compliance with international maritime regulations is essential. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient operation and maintenance of a vessel's machinery, which is vital for crew safety and regulatory compliance.

What are Designated Duty Engineers?

Designated Duty Engineers (DDEs) are licensed marine engineers responsible for overseeing the operation and maintenance of a ship's engine room and its equipment during their assigned watch. They ensure the safe and efficient functioning of propulsion and auxiliary machinery, as well as compliance with safety and environmental regulations. DDEs are typically found on vessels such as towing boats, offshore supply vessels, and certain passenger ships, and must hold a U.S. Coast Guard-issued credential specific to their duties and vessel type.

What are some of the most common challenges Designated Duty Engineers face during a typical shift?

Designated Duty Engineers often encounter challenges such as responding to unexpected technical failures, prioritizing multiple urgent maintenance requests, and coordinating with other departments to minimize downtime. The role requires quick problem-solving skills, effective communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure. Being on-call or working irregular hours is also common, making time management and adaptability essential for success in this position.

What is the difference between Designated Duty Engineer vs Marine Engineer?

AspectDesignated Duty EngineerMarine Engineer
CredentialsCertifications like STCW, specific licensingSTCW certification, marine engineering licenses
Work EnvironmentShip engine rooms, offshore platformsShip engine rooms, maritime vessels
Employer & IndustryShipping companies, offshore industriesMaritime shipping, naval vessels
Job FocusOverseeing engine room operations during dutyMaintaining and repairing ship engines

The main difference is that a Designated Duty Engineer is responsible for engine room operations during their assigned shift, often on a specific vessel or platform, while a Marine Engineer has broader responsibilities for ship engine maintenance and repair. Both roles require similar certifications and work in maritime environments, but the Designated Duty Engineer focuses on duty-specific tasks.

More about Designated Duty Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Designated Duty Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Designated Duty Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Designated Duty Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Designated Duty Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Designated Duty Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Designated Duty Engineer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Designated Duty Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $68,212 per year, or $32.8 per hour.
Designated Duty Engineer 4000 Oceans

Designated Duty Engineer 4000 Oceans

Foss Maritime Company

Seattle, WA

$30/hr

Other

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

About Foss Maritime

Foss Maritime is one of the most recognized and respected maritime brands in the U.S., combining a rich legacy with a forward-thinking approach to industry innovation. While deeply rooted in tradition, Foss is evolving at a fast pace, continuously setting new standards for operational excellence and sustainability.

With operations spanning all U.S. coasts and global transportation projects, Foss is a leader in harbor and terminal towage, tug and barge transportation, and offshore energy solutions, including traditional energy and offshore wind projects. Our primary operations are on the U.S. West Coast, Alaska, and Hawaii.

As part of the Saltchuk family of companies, Foss is a values-driven organization that takes pride in its exceptional team, commitment to safety, and dedication to customer success. With a culture built on integrity, innovation, and collaboration, Foss Maritime remains a trusted leader in the maritime industry.

About the Role

As an Engineer, you'll be an essential part of our mission to provide safe and reliable maritime services. You'll work alongside a dedicated team that values professionalism, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

What You'll Do

  • Maintain all vessel machinery and systems, including main propulsion, auxiliary power generation, ancillary equipment, and deck and cargo handling systems.
  • Ensure proper operation of all controls, monitoring, and alarm systems.
  • Oversee and conduct vessel bunkering operations, ensuring full compliance with established fueling procedures and environmental regulations.
  • Monitor and maintain fuel and fluid levels in all vessel tanks; take and document monthly oil samples for analysis.
  • Troubleshoot, diagnose, and repair machinery malfunctions as needed to ensure safe and continuous vessel operation.
  • Perform special duties, preventative maintenance, and assigned projects to support overall vessel readiness and efficiency.

What We're Looking For

  • Valid US Coast Guard Merchant Mariners Document (MMD) or Merchant Mariners Credential (MMC).
  • Valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
  • Minimum of two years of experience as a Marine Engineer.
  • Valid identification for travel.
  • Must be a current member of the Union or able to join the Union upon hire.

What We Offer

Pay for this position will be $30.00per hour.

How to Apply

Ready to set sail with Foss? Submit your application via our careers page. If you need any assistance please reach out to fossjobs@foss.com. We look forward to welcoming you aboard.

Drug Free Workplace
Foss Maritime Company LLC is a Drug Free Workplace where post offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies.

Equal Opportunity Employer
Foss Maritime Company LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status or other characteristics protected by law