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Main Propulsion Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Interlake Steamship Company

QMED

Cleveland, OH · On-site

... and operation of the main propulsion plant, auxiliary machinery, deck/cargo equipment, and ... The QMED is generally responsible for acting under the direction of the First Assistant Engineer or ...

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Main Propulsion Assistant information

What is the difference between Main Propulsion Assistant vs Engine Room Rating?

AspectMain Propulsion AssistantEngine Room Rating
CredentialsSTCW certifications, maritime trainingSTCW certifications, maritime training
Work EnvironmentEngine room, ship propulsion systemsEngine room, ship propulsion systems
Industry UsageCommonly used in maritime and shipping industriesCommonly used in maritime and shipping industries
Job FocusAssisting with propulsion system maintenance and operationSupporting engine room operations and maintenance

The Main Propulsion Assistant and Engine Room Rating roles share similar credentials, work environments, and industry usage. The main difference lies in their specific job focus, with the Main Propulsion Assistant primarily assisting with propulsion systems, while the Engine Room Rating supports overall engine room operations. Both roles are essential for maritime vessel operation and safety.

What is a Main Propulsion Assistant?

A Main Propulsion Assistant (MPA) is a senior engineering officer, typically found on naval vessels, who is responsible for overseeing the operation, maintenance, and repair of the ship's main propulsion systems. These systems include engines, turbines, gears, and the associated auxiliary equipment that enable the ship to move. The MPA works closely with other engineering staff to ensure propulsion machinery operates safely and efficiently, coordinates maintenance schedules, and troubleshoots technical issues. The role is crucial for the ship's mobility and mission readiness, requiring technical expertise and strong leadership skills.

What are some common challenges faced by a Main Propulsion Assistant on a ship?

Main Propulsion Assistants often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting complex mechanical and electrical issues under time constraints, adapting to rapidly changing operational demands, and maintaining propulsion systems during extended deployments. They must work closely with engineers and deck officers to ensure all propulsion machinery operates efficiently and safely. Effective communication and strong problem-solving skills are essential, as is the ability to perform routine maintenance and emergency repairs in high-pressure environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Main Propulsion Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Main Propulsion Assistant, you need a solid understanding of marine engineering principles, propulsion systems, and mechanical maintenance, typically supported by relevant maritime certifications or engineering degrees. Familiarity with shipboard engineering control systems, diagnostic tools, and safety management systems is essential. Strong problem-solving abilities, leadership, and effective communication skills help coordinate teams and respond to emergencies efficiently. These competencies ensure the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of a vessel's propulsion systems, which are critical for mission success and crew safety.
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Infographic showing various Main Propulsion Assistant job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Maintenance Mechanic (Damage Control/Propulsion Systems Support)

Maintenance Mechanic (Damage Control/Propulsion Systems Support)

EPSILON SYSTEMS

Chesapeake, VA • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Epsilon Systems Solutions Inc. is seeking a full time Maintenance Mechanic (Damage Control/Propulsion Systems Support) in Norfolk, VA.
Job Summary: Provide Damage Control and Propulsion systems equipment & systems support for the Carrier Engineering Maintenance Assist Team (CEMAT). Responsible for working closely with CEMAT, Government, and ship's force personnel to assess, operate, and conduct maintenance on US Navy ship propulsion and damage control systems and equipment.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Provides technical support on firefighting and damage control systems, structures and closures.
  • Provides both classroom and shipboard practical maintenance training on Major HM&E Main Propulsion, Pumps, Valve and Valve Operators, LO Systems, and Flex Hoses on all classes of Surface ships within the Pacific Fleet operating area.
  • Improves Ship's Force ability to self-assess designated propulsion and damage control Systems of Concern (SoC).
  • Determines and documents material condition of SoC.
  • Trains Ship's Force to fix their own SoC when task is assigned as an O-level task.
  • Uses technical documents (PMS MIPs & MRCs, JIFMM, Instructions, NSTM's, Military standards, Test memos, Test Standards, Drawings and Technical Manuals) contain information required to accomplish work and interact with and support of CEMAT Management Team.
  • Assists Ship's Force in their performance of PMS, functional checks, tests and analysis, fault detection and formulating required corrective actions.
  • Conducts PMS/assessments may include but are not limited to: MOGAS Storage Assessments for Certification, AFFF, Fire Pumps, Aqueous Potassium Carbonate (APC), Heptaflouropropane (HFP) space flooding, Collecting, Holding and Transfer (CHT) Assessments for Certification, Fire Main and components, Co2 fixed and flooding, Main & Secondary drainage systems, Radar cooling water, Bleed air systems, Vacuum Collecting, Holding and Transfer (VCHT),Water Mist, and Halon 1301, primarily onboard PACFLT Ships, including but not limited to CG, DDG, FFG, LHA, LHD, LPD, LSD, MCMs, LCS and MSC ships.
  • Assists ships force with obtaining supply and repair parts information as required.
  • Coordinates, schedules and works with support contractors, Government personnel and ship's force with the operations, maintenance processes and monitors material and parts to ensure on-time and accurate delivery schedules.
  • Supports Project Managers, planners and estimators, purchasers, production shops as necessary.
  • Participates in the management of support equipment inventories.
  • Attends all required training provided.
  • Analyzes processes and provide constructive input to process improvement teams.
  • Uses logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
  • Performs other duties as assigned in support of shop production.

Required Qualifications:
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Minimum 5 years' experience with US Navy Propulsion HM&E and/or Damage Control equipment, operations and maintenance
  • Familiar with the Navy's HM&E and/or Damage Control equipment, operations and maintenance
  • Familiar with a variety of the field's concepts, practices, and procedures
  • Experience in the Navy's production shop work flow process
  • Recent hands on experience with accomplishing shipboard closure repairs with wire rope work
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a DBIDS credential
  • Ability to read schematics and blue prints and follow detailed instructions and be self-motivated
  • Ability to work well on their own with minimal supervision
  • Ability to read technical manuals and repair standards
  • Ability to troubleshoot and assess various pieces of damage control equipment and closures
  • Ability to make decisions using sound judgment while complying with policies, procedure appropriate principles and applicable state and federal laws and regulations
  • Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in written formats with other activities in the military and civilian communities
  • Ability to read, interpret, and follow detailed written instructions, or drawings and to conduct activities in a safe manner
  • Ability to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer)
  • Understanding of the general and detailed aspects of the job, and their practical applications to problems and situations encountered on a regular basis
  • Effective problem solving skills to determine causes of operating errors and deciding what to do about it
  • Effective oral and written communication
  • Sound interpersonal skills needed to interface, coordinate with company personnel, customers, and outside contacts, if appropriate

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Associates degree in technical degree or military experience preferred
  • Prior Navy service as an E-6 or higher in the DC field
  • Current SECRET DoD Security Clearance

ADA Notations:
  • Requires walking, reaching, sitting and concentration in the presence of occasional noise
  • Must have manual and finger dexterity; able to grasp, manipulate, assemble small objects
  • Ability to move in narrow and restricted passageways, up/down steep and narrow ladders or stairways, and up and down antenna masts/yardarms (onboard ships)
  • Ability to lift, carry and move objects up to 50 lbs in weight
  • Office, warehouse, laboratory, pier side, shipboard noise conditions range from very quiet to loud noise

Epsilon Systems Solutions, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified candidates will be considered without regard to legally protected characteristics.

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