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First Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Venteon

1st Shift Controls Engineer

Elkton, MI · On-site

$125K/yr

1ST SHIFT CONTROLS ENGINEER - ELKTON, MICHIGAN A Leading Automotive Supplier near Elkton, Michigan needs a 1st Shift Controls Engineer. Previous Controls Engineering Experience in a Manufacturing ...

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First Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$34K

$88.7K

$119.8K

How much do first engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for first engineer in Michigan is $88,687.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,200.00 and $101,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between First Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectFirst EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; often requires experience in project managementBachelor's degree in mechanical engineering; may require licensure or certification
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, industrial plants, or project sites; often involved in overseeing initial phases of projectsDesign offices, manufacturing plants, or R&D labs; focused on design, analysis, and testing
Employer & Industry UsageConstruction, oil & gas, or heavy industry; used for lead or senior roles in project initiationManufacturing, automotive, aerospace, and energy sectors; common for design and development roles

First Engineers typically oversee early project phases and require experience in project management, while Mechanical Engineers focus on design, analysis, and testing within manufacturing or R&D environments. Both roles require engineering degrees but differ in responsibilities and work settings.

How to get a first engineer job?

To secure a first engineer position, candidates should develop relevant technical skills through education or training, build a portfolio of projects, and gain practical experience via internships or entry-level roles. Strong problem-solving abilities, proficiency with engineering tools, and effective communication are also important for success in the hiring process.

What do beginner first engineers do?

Beginner first engineers typically assist with basic tasks such as troubleshooting, testing, and maintaining systems or equipment. They often work under supervision, learn industry tools and safety protocols, and focus on gaining practical experience in engineering environments.

What does a first engineer do?

A first engineer is an entry-level engineering professional responsible for assisting in design, development, and testing of engineering projects. They often perform routine tasks, follow technical instructions, and work under supervision to gain experience and develop skills in their field.

What cities in Michigan are hiring for First Engineer jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most First Engineer job openings:

First Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various First Engineer job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,687 per year, or $42.6 per hour.

1st Assistant Engineer

Fife Lake, MI • On-site

Grand River Navigation Company
See more jobs at Grand River Navigation Companyexternal

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 14 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Stand and maintain a safe engineering watch in accordance with company policies, U.S. Coast Guard regulations, and vessel operating procedures.

  • Perform preventive and corrective maintenance tasks on vessel systems and equipment, and operate, inspect, troubleshoot, maintain, and repair main propulsion, auxiliary, and support systems.

  • Assist with regulatory inspections, audits, and environmental compliance activities, and support the safe operation of the vessel by adhering to safety, environmental, and operational policies.

Job description

Description:

Come Sail with us on the Great Lakes!


If you are looking to become part of our team that strongly values safety, efficient operations, a family-oriented environment, come sail with us! Grand River Navigation has one of the best leave and rotation systems on the Great Lakes. With unprecedented teamwork and some of the most talented colleagues in the industry we can guarantee you will enjoy a career with us!


Grand River Navigation Company is the U.S. operating subsidiary of Mainstay Maritime. We are one of the largest marine transportation service providers operating on the Great Lakes today with a combined fleet of 15 bulk freight vessels that provide service to over 50 customers across the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Seaway.


Competitive total rewards package including income, paid travel to/from the vessel, healthcare benefits, retirement savings plans and work/life balance with best-in-class rotation. We have many education opportunities and upgrade bonuses to support career growth at a pace that is right for each individual.


"We can go where the big ships go and also where they can't!"


Our Company is searching for qualified candidates for the position of 1st Assistant Engineer aboard our US flagged self-unloading vessels.

Responsibilities
  • Stand and maintain a safe engineering watch in accordance with company policies, U.S. Coast Guard regulations, and vessel operating procedures.
  • Perform preventive and corrective maintenance tasks as assigned through the vessel's Planned Maintenance System (PMS).
  • Operate, inspect, troubleshoot, maintain, and repair main propulsion, auxiliary, and support systems to ensure reliable vessel operation.
  • Maintain engine room and deck equipment, including air compressors, winches, sewage treatment systems, ballast pumps, potable water pumps, and oily water separators (OWS).
  • Monitor machinery performance and identify equipment deficiencies, taking corrective action as necessary to minimize downtime.
  • Maintain accurate maintenance records, logs, and documentation as required.
  • Assist with regulatory inspections, audits, and environmental compliance activities.
  • Support the safe operation of the vessel by adhering to all safety, environmental, and operational policies and procedures.
  • Assist in the training and development of engine department personnel as directed.
  • Perform additional duties and responsibilities as assigned by the Chief Engineer.


Benefits

  • As an employee you are part of the Mainstay Maritime family where Teamwork and safety are a core value
  • Highly competitive wages and benefits including medical, dental, vision, company paid long-term and short-term disability and life insurance, 401K with company match.
  • Excellent safety record
  • Company paid training and education opportunities

Job Type: Full Time - Permanent


Requirements:
  • TWIC Card - Transportation Worker Identification Credential
  • United States Merchant Mariners Credential (MMC) issued by the United States Coast Guard (USCG)
  • MMC Endorsement as 1st Assistant Engineer of Motor Propelled Vessels Unlimited Horsepower
  • Valid US Passport or Enhanced Driver's License and allowed entry into Canada
  • Legally authorized to work in the US, without restriction
  • Excellent communication and ability to multi-task
  • Experience working as a team and desire to working together as a team player
  • Experience and desires to align to our Values: Creating a Positive Customer Experience, Health/Safety/Environment focused, High Integrity and Teamwork


Grand River Navigation is an Equal Opportunity Employer All qualified applications will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, marital status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, nationality or sex, marital status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by law. We also comply with Family Medical Leave Act and Employee Rights Employee Polygraph Protection Act.



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