1

Marine Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Marine Engineer The Marine Engineer is responsible and accountable for the engineering and technical operations of a Fleet of US-Flagged cruise ships. The Marine Engineer directs the maintenance ...

Marine Engineer The Marine Engineer is responsible and accountable for the engineering and technical operations of a Fleet of US-Flagged cruise ships. The Marine Engineer directs the maintenance ...

We're looking for talented Marine Engineer to join our Team, located out of our Chesapeake, VA or Ledyard, CT office. Responsibilities: * Research technical manuals, ship drawings, feedback, and ...

Marine Engineer

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$115K - $150K/yr

What we prefer you bring: * 5-10 years of industry experience in structural engineering with a concentration in marine structures (preferable). * Professional Engineer (P.E.) licensure, Maryland ...

Marine Engineer

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$115K - $150K/yr

What we prefer you bring: * 5-10 years of industry experience in structural engineering with a concentration in marine structures (preferable). * Professional Engineer (P.E.) licensure, Maryland ...

Marine Engineer

Newport News, VA · On-site

$115K - $150K/yr

What we prefer you bring: * 5-10 years of industry experience in structural engineering with a concentration in marine structures (preferable). * Professional Engineer (P.E.) licensure, Maryland ...

Marine Engineer

Richmond, VA · On-site

$115K - $150K/yr

What we prefer you bring: * 5-10 years of industry experience in structural engineering with a concentration in marine structures (preferable). * Professional Engineer (P.E.) licensure, Maryland ...

Senior Marine Engineer

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$101K - $139K/yr

We're looking for talented Senior Marine Engineers who will be responsible for coordinating and overseeing the maintenance, repair, and safe operations of all the engineering needs for assigned ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Marine Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$25

$42

$75

How much do marine engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for marine engineer in Virginia is $42.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.68 and $51.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Do marine engineers make money?

Marine engineers typically earn a competitive salary that varies based on experience, location, and the type of vessel or facility they work on. Entry-level positions often start around $60,000 annually, with experienced engineers earning over $100,000. Certifications and specialized skills can also influence earning potential.

What are the jobs of a marine engineer?

A marine engineer is responsible for designing, maintaining, and repairing the mechanical systems of ships and other marine vessels, including engines, propulsion systems, and power generation equipment. They ensure the safe and efficient operation of maritime machinery, often working in engine rooms and requiring technical skills and certifications. Marine engineers also troubleshoot technical issues and oversee repairs to ensure compliance with safety standards.

What are common challenges marine engineers face when working on ships or offshore installations?

Marine Engineers often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting complex machinery in remote or harsh environments, coordinating repairs while minimizing downtime, and ensuring all systems meet strict safety and environmental regulations. Working on ships or offshore installations can involve long hours and extended periods away from home, requiring adaptability and strong problem-solving skills. Collaboration with multinational crews and diverse technical teams is frequent, making communication and teamwork essential for maintaining high operational standards.

What is a marine engineer?

Marine engineers are professionals who design, develop, build, and maintain ships, boats, and other watercraft, as well as their internal systems such as engines, propulsion systems, and onboard equipment. They work on a variety of vessels, including cargo ships, tankers, submarines, and offshore platforms. Marine engineers play a crucial role in ensuring that these vessels are safe, efficient, and environmentally friendly. Their responsibilities may also include overseeing repairs, conducting inspections, and staying up-to-date with maritime regulations.

What does a marine engineer do?

A marine engineer works to ensure the smooth operation of a ship or other water vessel like a ferry, submarine, or cargo ship, by inspecting and performing maintenance on propulsion systems, engines, and other systems powering the vessel. You may also design and build these systems. You can choose to specialize in one area such as boat engines. In this job, your duties may include performing maintenance work on boats or designing propulsion systems with CAD software on a computer. Communication skills are crucial, as you are constantly discussing needs and expectations with your clients. Additional responsibilities include keeping a timeline and budget, ensuring that your projects stay on track.

What is the difference between Marine Engineer vs Naval Architect?

AspectMarine EngineerNaval Architect
CredentialsEngineering degree, certifications in marine systemsEngineering or architecture degree, certifications in ship design
Work EnvironmentShip engines, machinery rooms, onboard or shipyardShip design offices, shipyards, research facilities
Industry UsageMaintaining and repairing ship machineryDesigning ship structures and hulls

Marine Engineers focus on the operation, maintenance, and repair of ship machinery, working mainly in engine rooms or shipyards. Naval Architects specialize in designing ship structures and hulls, often working in design offices or shipyards. Both roles require engineering expertise but serve different aspects of shipbuilding and operation.

What are the most commonly searched types of Marine Engineer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Marine Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Marine Engineer jobs in Virginia? For Marine Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Marine Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Marine Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Marine Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,520 per year, or $42.6 per hour.

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

Marine Engineer
The Marine Engineer is responsible and accountable for the engineering and technical operations of a Fleet of US-Flagged cruise ships. The Marine Engineer directs the maintenance, repair and regulatory compliance of all American Cruise Lines’ certificated vessels. The Marine Engineer provides immediate response for critical repairs to ensure the Fleet remains on schedule. The Marine Engineer reports to American Cruise Lines' Vice President of Engineering
At American Cruise Lines, we are driven by our values—Optimism, Commitment, Patriotism, and Merit. These values shape our culture, our service, and our people, guiding us as we work together to Share America’s Story on the Finest American Ships.
Responsibilities:
  • Accomplishes taking assigned by Vice President of Engineering and coordinates tasking with other Directors of Engineering.
  • Supervises and directs Naval Architects and Marine Engineers.
  • Creates and modifies drawings in AutoCAD for systems including HVAC, Structures, Stability, Electrical Distribution, Piping Systems, Maine Propulsion, Navigation Systems, General arrangements, etc. for compliance to 46 Code of Federal Regulations.
  • Applies standards of ABS Rules for Building and Classing Marine Vessels including scantlings for hull repairs and welding schedule.
  • Writes and submits technical repair plans to regulatory bodies.
  • Submits detailed plans and calculations to USCG Marine Safety Center for review and approval to applicable sections of the Code of Federal Regulations as needed.
  • Applies knowledge of first principles to structural calculations for beams and columns.
  • Perform calculations for ventilation systems to troubleshoot or retrofit vessels.
  • Apply 46 CFR Subchapter J amp; F regulations to vessel repairs and upgrades.
  • Performs weight estimates and evaluates compliance with applicable regulations of 46 CFR subchapter S for major refits.
  • Understand components of propulsion systems and interpret detailed drawings of machinery installations. Take lead on interfacing with propulsion amp; prime mover vendors.
  • Generate detailed design drawings that include all views and dimensions.
  • Identifies and troubleshoots technical vessel problems and provides fast solutions to minimize downtime.
  • Develops, maintains, and implements standards for preventative maintenance programs.
  • Expedites vendors for critical repairs.
  • Coordinates and communicates with Marine Operations for critical repairs and determines timeline for resolution.
  • Ensures competitive bidding and negotiating costs.
  • Manages expenses and assists with annual winter maintenance budget.
  • Supports large scale projects such as ship refits and dry-dockings.
  • Provides technical information and guidance to shipboard engineers and crew directly, or through Port Engineers.
  • Creates and curates training material for shipboard engineers.
Qualifications:
  • Minimum 10 years’ experience in ship repair or construction.
  • B.S. in Naval Architecture, Marine Engineering, or Mechanical Engineering preferred.
  • Strong organizational skills and excellent verbal and written communication skills (English).
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
  • US Coast Guard regulated pre-employment drug test.
Attributes for Success:
  • Ability to identify, manage, and solve problems.
  • Ability to understand complex problems.
  • Ability to act with urgency to complete time sensitive tasks.
  • Consistent, accountable, confident, assertive, and committed.
  • Be detail oriented.
  • Ability to be available during evenings, weekends, amp; holidays to solve time sensitive problems.
  • Ability to persuade.
Work Schedule:
  • Regular travel to ships.
  • Year-round with 24/7/365 on-call hours.
  • Remote Based Position.
Why Join American Cruise Lines?
At American Cruise Lines, our people make the difference. We are proud to operate the newest and most innovative fleet in the country and are recognized as America’s leading river cruise specialist. Our success is rooted in hiring talented individuals and giving them the tools, training, and support to grow and thrive. Join a team that's redefining U.S. cruise travel — and be part of a company honored with multiple industry awards and built on a strong foundation of excellence and innovation.
Applicant Acknowledgment
By proceeding to apply for the above position, I acknowledge that I have read and understand the description of the job position for which I am applying, I agree that it accurately reflects the essential functions of the position, and I represent that I can complete the essential functions of the position.
Equal Opportunity Employer
American Cruise Lines is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for all employees and applicants. ‎American Cruise Lines bases all employment decisions on business needs, job requirements, and individual ‎qualifications without regard to protected characteristics, including, but not limited to, race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin and citizenship, age (40 and over), disability (including perceived disability), generic information, military service, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local law. ‎This policy applies to all aspects of employment and employment decisions, including, but not limited to, ‎hiring, selection, job assignment, training, compensation, promotion, discipline, termination, and access ‎to benefits.‎
*This job description is not intended to be a comprehensive list of the duties and responsibilities of the position and such duties and responsibilities may change without notice.