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Engine Room Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Engine Room information

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How much do engine room jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for engine room in the United States is $21.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an Engine Room job?

An Engine Room job typically involves operating, maintaining, and repairing the machinery and systems that power a vessel, such as engines, boilers, pumps, and electrical systems. Workers in the engine room, including marine engineers and engine room assistants, ensure the ship runs efficiently and safely. Responsibilities may include monitoring equipment performance, troubleshooting mechanical issues, and following safety protocols. These roles are critical for the smooth operation of ships, offshore platforms, and industrial facilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Engine Room position, and why are they important?

To excel in an engine room position, strong mechanical aptitude, troubleshooting skills, and a solid understanding of marine engineering principles are essential, often supported by maritime certifications such as STCW or an engineering license. Familiarity with engine monitoring systems, diagnostic tools, and preventative maintenance software is important for efficient operations. Attention to detail, clear communication, and the ability to work collaboratively under pressure stand out as valuable soft skills. These qualifications and personal attributes are crucial for ensuring the safe, reliable, and smooth operation of a vessel’s propulsion and auxiliary systems.

What are the typical work conditions and team structure for engine room personnel on ships?

Engine room roles are typically found on commercial vessels such as cargo ships, tankers, or passenger ferries, with personnel working in shifts to ensure round-the-clock operation of all machinery. The team structure commonly includes a Chief Engineer, Second Engineer, Third Engineer, and support staff like oilers and electricians, all collaborating to maintain and repair engines and auxiliary systems. The work environment can be noisy, hot, and physically demanding, with strict safety protocols in place. Teamwork and clear communication are essential, as tasks are often coordinated during watch changes and emergency responses. This setup offers opportunities for skill development and advancement to senior engineering positions with experience and additional certification.
What cities are hiring for Engine Room jobs? Cities with the most Engine Room job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Engine Room jobs? The most popular types of Engine Room jobs are:
What states have the most Engine Room jobs? States with the most job openings for Engine Room jobs include:
Infographic showing various Engine Room job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 97% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,021 per year, or $21.6 per hour.
US Coast Guard Licensed Chief Engineer

US Coast Guard Licensed Chief Engineer

Morrison Energy

Houma, LA

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Primary Function:


The Chief Engineer is responsible for the management and supervision of the engine room staff and oversees the maintenance, operations, and repair of all electrical, mechanical, and structural systems onboard the vessel. The Chief Engineer collaborates with the vessel Master and other crew members to ensure the vessel is mechanically sound and operates within the stipulations of US Coast Guard, maritime law, and environmental regulations.


Responsibilities:


  • Ensure the safe operations and maintenance of the vessel's propulsion, auxiliary, and all other mechanical systems in compliance with applicable US Coast Guard regulations, company policies and procedures, and manufacturers' recommendations in a manner responsible to the safety of the crew.
  • Loading and storing of fuel, lubrication oils, and management of bilge and bilge slops in accordance with environmental regulations and company policies and procedures.
  • Set and stand engine room watches in rotation with members of the vessel's engineering crew.
  • Direct and supervise engine room crew in execution of their duties to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the vessel.
  • Monitor and inspect engine room to ensure vessel machinery is being properly serviced and scheduled maintenance procedures are being conducted.
  • Conduct regular inspections to ensure the vessel meets international safety and environmental regulations.
  • Coordinate with the vessel Master and shore-based management to report systems status, ongoing issues and/or equipment malfunctions.
  • Direct emergency repairs and troubleshoot complex technical issues.
  • Assists with US Coast Guard inspections when required.
  • Understand, follow, and enforce safety, health, and environmental rules and safe working practices.
  • Other duties as assigned by the vessel Master and/or Director of Offshore Marine Assets.
  • Regular and reliable attendance and work performance required.


Prerequisites:


  • Must hold a valid US Coast Guard Chief Engineer license and STCW training appropriate for the type, horsepower, and tonnage for the vessel he/she is assigned to.
  • Extensive knowledge of US Coast Guard regulations.
  • Basic understanding of occupational health and safety rules and working practices.
  • Ability to effectively supervise vessel engineering crew.
  • Ability to communicate effectively both in oral and written forms.
  • Must have medical clearance that meets US Coast Guard requirements for the position.


Education:


  • A high school diploma or GED equivalent
  • Preferred education and/or training at an accredited maritime institute


Experience:


  • Actual sea time as required for the issuance of US Coast Guard license and/or certifications.
  • A minimum of (5) years working as a US Coast Guard licensed Engineer.