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Designated Duty Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of New York

Marine Oiler

Staten Island, NY

Coast Guard Merchant Mariner's Credential (MMC) with endorsement as a Designated Duty Engineer (DDE) of motor vessels of any horsepower or Qualified Member of the Engine Department (QMED) with the ...

City of New York

Marine Oiler

Staten Island, NY · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Coast Guard Merchant Mariner's Credential (MMC) with endorsement as a Designated Duty Engineer (DDE) of motor vessels of any horsepower or Qualified Member of the Engine Department (QMED) with the ...

City of New York

Marine Oiler

Staten Island, NY · On-site

Coast Guard Merchant Mariner's Credential (MMC) with endorsement as a Designated Duty Engineer (DDE) of motor vessels of any horsepower or Qualified Member of the Engine Department (QMED) with the ...

State of Louisiana

FERRYBOAT OPERATOR 1-3

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$3.6K - $6.5K/mo

Applicants possessing a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with a Designated Duty Engineer (DDE) endorsement for motor vessels of less than 1,000 HP or higher are encouraged to apply.** At DOTD, our ...

State of Louisiana

FERRYBOAT OPERATOR 1-3

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$3.6K - $6.5K/mo

Applicants possessing a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with a Designated Duty Engineer (DDE) endorsement for motor vessels of less than 1,000 HP or higher are encouraged to apply.** At DOTD, our ...

Peabody Hotels & Resorts

Painter

Memphis, TN

$17.75 - $24.25/hr

Assume the responsibilities of the Duty Engineer as scheduled, which includes carrying the pager, conducting rounds and checking building equipment. * Attend designated department and staff meetings.

HBC MANAGEMENT SERVICES, Inc.

$24.39/hr

The security watch standers are required to contact the designated OOD, duty engineer or XO/CO if any unusual events occur * The watch stander conducting security rounds shall log all rounds and any ...

Hana Industries, Inc.

Security Watch Stander

Honolulu, HI · On-site

$24.39/hr

The security watch standers are required to contact the designated OOD, duty engineer or XO/CO if any unusual events occur * The watch stander conducting security rounds shall log all rounds and any ...

Peabody Hotels & Resorts

Painter

Memphis, TN · On-site

$17.75 - $24.25/hr

Assume the responsibilities of the Duty Engineer as scheduled, which includes carrying the pager, conducting rounds and checking building equipment. * Attend designated department and staff meetings.

Hana Enterprises Inc.

$24.39/hr

The security watch standers are required to contact the designated OOD, duty engineer or XO/CO if any unusual events occur * The watch stander conducting security rounds shall log all rounds and any ...

Peabody Hotels & Resorts

Painter

Memphis, TN · On-site

$16.25 - $22.25/hr

Assume the responsibilities of the Duty Engineer as scheduled, which includes carrying the pager, conducting rounds and checking building equipment. * Attend designated department and staff meetings.

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Designated Duty Engineer information

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$66

How much do designated duty engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 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 is a designated duty engineer?

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 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 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.

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What states have the most Designated Duty Engineer jobs?

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What job categories do people searching Designated Duty Engineer jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Designated Duty Engineer jobs are:

Designated Duty Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Designated Duty Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, and 11% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,212 per year, or $32.8 per hour.

Chief Engineer, Unlicensed

Positions at Sea - UnCruise Adventures

Juneau, AK • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Join one of our virtual information sessions to learn more about working at UnCruise - register here.
 
PERKS
  • Heath care benefits (medical, dental, vision)
  • 401k with employer match (qualifications required)
  • Credential reimbursement (qualifications required)
  • Travel provided to and from the vessel
  • Rotation schedule
JOB SUMMARY
The Chief Engineer position begins in shipyard (Seattle, WA) over the winter months prior to the summer 2026 Alaska Sailing Season. The Chief Engineer will work a rotational schedule during the season.
 
The Chief Engineer is responsible for the maintenance, operation, and repair of all vessel systems. On our larger vessels the Chief Engineer manages Assistant Engineer. The Chief Engineer reports to the Master of the vessel and will assist the Master in communicating and enforcing all company policies and procedures.
 
QUALIFICATIONS
  • Maritime Engineering School Graduate in good standing and/or a Designated Duty Engineer License, or equivalent, preferred.
  • Two years experience as Engineer onboard similar sized passenger vessels preferred.
  • Strong knowledge of diesel propulsion and electrical generating systems, fuel centrifuges, air compressors, pumps, hydraulics, water makers, hotel systems, plumbing, refrigeration, heating, and air conditioning.
  • Maintain professional demeanor at all times.
  • Strong time management skills: able to handle multiple tasks, set priorities and meet deadlines.
  • Crisis management: work well under pressure, act quickly and decisively using sound judgment.
  • Computer experience: Microsoft programs Excel, Word, and SharePoint are required.
Required Certificates, Licenses, Registrations:
  • Government ID (REAL ID Compliant) or Passport 
  • CPR / First Aid / AED  
  • TWIC
  • Drug/Alcohol Test Specimen Collector (Company Provided)
ESSENTIAL DUTIES
Repair and Maintenance:
  • Maintain the ship in a state of readiness at all times.
  • Maintain potable water and auto chlorination system.
  • Maintain black water/gray water/waste tanks, treatment, and testing program.
  • Monitor and ensures completion of all deficiencies noted in Cabin Maintenance Notebook.
  • Oversee all fuel, oil and Potable water bunkering operations and ensures safety and environmental compliance.
  • Oversee and maintain vessel systems including engineering, deck and hotel department preventative maintenance programs on a daily, weekly and monthly basis with the support of the Assistant Engineer.
  • Proactively participates in drydocking, shipyard repair and maintenance periods.
Supervisory:
  • Directly supervises the Assistant Engineer (where applicable).  
  • Monitors and counsels work performance throughout the year and conducts written performance evaluations.  
  • Trains all new and relief Chief Engineers and Assistant Engineers.
 Administrative:
  • Keep vessel maintenance records, inventories, and voyage status reports. Make proposals for maintenance and repair projects. 
  • Assist in building the annual shipyard budget and manage projects to the established budget.
  • Maintain log sheets for all equipment.
  • Oversee all accounting reports, inventory and requisitions regarding equipment maintenance.
  •  Track all vessel Non-Conformity Reports and Equipment Deficiencies in the company PMP (HELM) program for vessels 
 Safety and Security:
  • Follow company safety and pollution prevention policies and procedures and will request supervisory assistance/guidance when necessary.
  • Conduct periodic inspections to ensure that crew observes regulations pertaining to safe vessel operation.
  • Prepare the vessel for all U.S. Coast Guard annual drydocks and other inspections.
  • Participate in shore side and on-board training as required by the company.  
  • Maintain familiarity with all duties under the company Safety Management System including Emergency Response Activities.
Communication Skills:
The Chief Engineer will interact with our passengers daily and must be professional and engaging at all times. Must be able to interpret maritime technical literature and governmental regulations. Must be able to verbalize and write technical information clearly and precisely.
 

ONBOARD ENVIRONMENT / PHYSICAL DEMANDS / EMPLOYMENT COMPLIANCE

  • Living Conditions - Crew live in close quarters with 4 to 8 people of all genders per room depending on the vessel. Having your own room is not an option due to limited berthing.
  • Length of Work Shift - Physically able to work 12 hours per day, 7 days a week for 6 to 8 weeks at a time. Rotations off the vessel are usually 2 to 3 weeks.
  • Mobility - Frequent bending, reaching, twisting, kneeling, crawling, and pushing/pulling. Must ascend and descend stairs and ladders, sometimes while carrying tools or objects. Able to stand or sit for long periods of time.
  • Handling & Strength - Able to handle, lift, and lower objects totaling 50 pounds between the ground/deck level to a height of about 4 to 6 feet, and able to repeat these movements. Able to carry these objects up to 100 feet continuously for 20 minutes.
  • Environmental Conditions - Able to work in all weather conditions, around loud noise, in small spaces, and fit through a 28-inch wide hatch.
  • DOT Drug Testing - In compliance with USCG regulations, must pass a pre-employment drug test and additional in-season testing per federal guidelines.
  • Allergens - This position requires working with and/or being around raw and cooked shellfish, cleaning chemicals and other known allergens.
  • Medical Review - A medical review is required. Must be medically fit to work onboard for safety and compliance.
BASE PAY
$415 - $487/day - Wage is based on Vessel Placement

Apply