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Main Propulsion Jobs (NOW HIRING)

A QMED is a more experienced unlicensed position in the engine department responsible for assisting with maintenance and operation of the main propulsion plant, auxiliary machinery, deck/cargo ...

Our larger Propulsion Service Engineering team, including APU, Main Engines, Fuels, or other Propulsion Equipment with similar tasks * Continuous improvement / process efficiency activities Basic ...

Our larger Propulsion Service Engineering team, including APU, Main Engines, Fuels, or other Propulsion Equipment with similar tasks * Continuous improvement / process efficiency activities Basic ...

Supervises and directs the operation, maintenance, and minor or emergency repair of the main propulsion equipment, boilers, auxiliaries, electrical equipment, steering pumps, and fuel, oil, urea and ...

Supervises and directs the operation, maintenance, and minor or emergency repair of the main propulsion equipment, boilers, auxiliaries, electrical equipment, steering pumps, and fuel, oil, urea and ...

$26.28/hr

... main propulsion machinery, pumps, valves, steam turbines, engines, pumps, and propeller shafts on submarines and surface craft. 7. Shop 51 Electrician Assist journey level Electrician Mechanics in ...

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Main Propulsion information

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$41K

$102.8K

$167.5K

How much do main propulsion jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for main propulsion in the United States is $102,825.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,500.00 and $118,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical collaboration points between Main Propulsion engineers and other shipboard departments during a vessel's operation?

Main Propulsion engineers routinely collaborate with departments such as Electrical, Navigation, and Deck to ensure the vessel’s propulsion systems operate efficiently and safely. They coordinate with the Electrical team to troubleshoot control systems, work with Navigation to align propulsion needs with voyage plans, and support Deck operations during maneuvers or docking. Effective communication and teamwork are crucial, as propulsion system performance directly impacts the ship’s schedule, fuel efficiency, and overall safety.

What are Main Propulsion jobs?

Main Propulsion jobs refer to roles responsible for operating, maintaining, and repairing the primary engines and related systems that propel ships, submarines, or spacecraft. Individuals in these positions ensure that main engines, propulsion shafts, fuel systems, and control mechanisms function safely and efficiently. These roles are crucial in maritime and aerospace industries, often requiring technical expertise and strict adherence to safety protocols. Main Propulsion personnel may work on installation, troubleshooting, and routine inspections to keep propulsion systems in optimal condition.

What is the difference between Main Propulsion vs Engine Room Technician?

AspectMain PropulsionEngine Room Technician
Required CredentialsCertifications in marine engineering, propulsion systemsMarine engineering certifications, technical training
Work EnvironmentEngine room, propulsion systems, machinery spacesEngine room, machinery maintenance areas
Employer & Industry UsageShip operators, maritime industry, cruise linesShip operators, maritime industry, cargo ships
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Main Propulsion personnel focus on the operation and maintenance of the ship's propulsion systems, including engines and propellers. Engine Room Technicians handle routine maintenance, troubleshooting, and repairs of engine room machinery. While both roles work closely in the engine room, Main Propulsion is more specialized in propulsion systems, whereas Engine Room Technicians cover broader engine room equipment.

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

To thrive in Main Propulsion, you need a solid understanding of mechanical and electrical engineering principles, along with relevant technical training or certifications such as a marine engineering degree or equivalent. Familiarity with propulsion control systems, engine diagnostics tools, and maintenance management software is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are vital soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of propulsion systems, which is critical for vessel performance and safety.
More about Main Propulsion jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Main Propulsion jobs? The most popular types of Main Propulsion jobs are:

Marine Propulsion Engineer / Mechanical Engineer - Washington, DC

Serco

Hampton, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

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


Job description

Position Description & Qualifications

If you are interested in supporting the Navy's #1 acquisition program and enjoy a challenging job which requires technical rigor and will build on your current level of expertise, Serco has a great opportunity for you!

As a Marine Propulsion Engineer / Mechanical Engineer, supporting our active contract with the U.S. Navy in the Washington, DC area, you will support and be an integral part of the team in NAVSEA 05Z5 tasked with the design and development of ship propulsion turbines and control systems and conduct trade studies to determine optimal propulsion turbine configurations. Bring your expertise and collaborative skills to make an impact towards our military defense and safety of our sailors.

The NAVSEA 05Z Marine Engineering Directorate is responsible for providing the engineering and scientific expertise, knowledge, and technical authority necessary to design, build, maintain, repair, modernize, certify, and dispose of the Navy's ships, submarines, and associated warfare systems.

Len Bunch (www.linkedin.com/in/leonardbunch (https://tracking.icims.com/f/a/lyDzEXJpcqXQ6-JbMHfaJQ~~/AAIB5gA~/RgRmIpevP0QnaHR0cDovL3d3dy5saW5rZWRpbi5jb20vaW4vbGVvbmFyZGJ1bmNoVwNzcGNCCmQ-rxJAZOPFd2RSGkxlb25hcmQuQnVuY2hAc2VyY28tbmEuY29tWAQAAAQF) ) leads this team as a Navy veteran. The team has been recognized by the Navy and the industry for their outstanding contributions to the contract and program.

In this role, you will:

  • Be responsible for supporting the design, development and improvement of Naval propulsion systems, including but not limited to:
  • Develop ship propulsion turbines and control systems
  • Perform propulsion component design trade studies.
  • Review and develop technical specifications.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams.
  • Ensure adherence to deadlines and deliver high-quality work.

To be successful in this role, you will have:

  • An active DoD Secret Security clearance.
  • A Bachelor's of Science in a Technical, Engineering, or Marine discipline from an ABET-accredited institution.
  • 3 years experience in ship propulsion and control systems and propulsion component trade studies.
  • Experience with large rotating machinery such as Main Propulsion units, Turbine Generators, Deisel Generators or other prime movers and associated reduction gears
  • Ability to work effectively remotely in cross-functional teams.
  • Ability to meet deadlines and produce quality work.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, SharePoint, PowerPoint).
  • The ability to travel up to 10%.

Additional desired experience and skills:

  • 1 year of experience related to federal ship or boat building acquisition programs.
  • Experience in developing control systems.
  • Experience with reviewing and developing technical specifications.
  • Experienced in performing trade studies on propulsion turbine configurations and components.
  • Experience with DoD ACAT I or DHS Level I shipbuilding programs

If you are interested in supporting and working with our military and sailors and a passionate Serco team then submit your application now for immediate consideration. It only takes a few minutes and could change your career!

Company Overview

Serco Inc. (Serco) is the Americas division of Serco Group, plc. In North America, Serco's 9,000+ employees strive to make an impact every day across 100+ sites in the areas of Defense, Citizen Services, and Transportation. We help our clients deliver vital services more efficiently while increasing the satisfaction of their end customers. Serco serves every branch of the U.S. military, numerous U.S. Federal civilian agencies, the Intelligence Community, the Canadian government, state, provincial and local governments, and commercial clients. While your place may look a little different depending on your role, we know you will find yours here. Wherever you work and whatever you do, we invite you to discover your place in our world. Serco is a place you can count on and where you can make an impact because every contribution matters.

To review Serco benefits please visit: https://careers.serco-na.com/us/en/what-we-offer . If you require an accommodation with the application process please email: careers@serco-na.com or call the HR Service Desk at 800-628-6458, option 1. Please note, due to EEOC/OFCCP compliance, Serco is unable to accept resumes by email.

Candidates may be asked to present proof of identify during the selection process. If requested, this will require presentation of a government-issued I.D. (with photo) with name and address that match the information entered on the application. Serco will not take possession of or retain/store the information provided as proof of identity. For more information on how Serco uses your information, please see our Applicant Privacy Policy and Notice.

Serco does not accept unsolicited resumes through or from search firms or staffing agencies without being a contracted approved vendor. All unsolicited resumes will be considered the property of Serco and will not be obligated to pay a placement or contract fee. If you are interested in becoming an approved vendor at Serco, please email Agencies@serco-na.com .

Serco is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics.

Pay Transparency

Our Total Rewards package includes competitive pay, performance-based incentives, and benefits that promote well-being and work-life balance-so you can thrive both professionally and personally. Eligible employees also gain access to a wide range of benefits from comprehensive health coverage and health savings accounts to retirement plans, life and disability insurance, and time-off programs that support work-life balance. Program availability may vary based on factors such as contract type, location, hire date, and applicable collective bargaining agreements.

Salary range: The range for this position can be found at the top of this posting. This range is provided as a general guideline and represents a good faith estimate across all experience levels. Actual base salary will be determined by a variety of factors, including but not limited to, the scope of the role, relevant experience, job-related knowledge, education and training, key skills, and geographic market considerations. For roles available in multiple states, the range may vary to reflect differences in local labor markets. In addition to base salary, eligible positions may include other forms of compensation such as annual bonuses or long-term incentive opportunities. Benefits - Comprehensible benefits for full-time employees (part-time employees receive a limited package tailored to their role):

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Robust vacation and sick leave benefits, and flexible work arrangements where permitted by role or contract
  • 401(k) plan that includes employer matching funds
  • Tuition reimbursement program
  • Life insurance and disability coverage
  • Optional coverages that can be purchased, including pet insurance, home and auto insurance, additional life and accident insurance, critical illness insurance, group legal, ID theft protection
  • Birth, adoption, parental leave benefits
  • Employee Assistance Plan

To review all Serco benefits please visit: https://careers.serco-na.com/us/en/about-us .

Serco complies with all applicable state and local leave laws, including providing time off under the Colorado Healthy Families and Workplaces Act for eligible Colorado residents, in alignment with our policies and benefit plans. The application window for this position is for no more than 60 days. We encourage candidates to apply promptly after the posting date, as the position may close earlier if filled or if the application volume exceeds expectations. Please submit applications exclusively through Serco's external (or internal) career site. If an applicant has any concerns with job posting compliance, please send an email to: careers@serco-na.com .