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Marine Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

MARINE SURVEYOR

Norfolk, VA ยท On-site +1

$75K - $98K/yr

All vacancies are located in the Assistant Port Engineer Branch (N757) in Norfolk, VA. Learn more ... Coast Guard licensed marine engineer in the merchant marine. * For GS-11 (or equivalent ...

Marine Designer

Norfolk, VA ยท On-site

$90 - $115/hr

As a rapidly growing small business, we are looking for experienced designers and engineers who can provide quality deliverables and help grow our business. We are looking for a Marine Designer with ...

New

Marine Welder

Virginia Beach, VA ยท On-site

$25 - $35/hr

QED Systems, an experienced marine engineering, planning, and ship modernization firm, is seeking Marine Welders. Salary: $25-$35 Hourly Qualified candidates must be: * experienced in welding and/or ...

New

Showing results 21-40

Marine Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$25

$42

$75

How much do marine engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 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.

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 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 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.

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 jobs can you do with marine engineering?

Marine engineers can work on designing, building, maintaining, and repairing ships, submarines, and offshore structures such as oil rigs. They often work in shipyards, shipping companies, or maritime agencies, utilizing skills in systems engineering, propulsion, and safety standards. Certifications like STCW and knowledge of marine systems are essential for many roles in this field.

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 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 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $88,520 per year, or $42.6 per hour.

Marine Engineer, Senior

American Systems Corporation

Arlington, VA โ€ข On-site

$110K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Overview
Seeking an experienced Senior Naval Architectto support The USCG Ship Design Team's vessel modernization, and repair programs
Responsibilities
As a Senior Naval Architect you will:
  • Provide technical expertise in structural design, welding, fabrication, HM&E systems, and auxiliary systems development for major acquisition efforts.
  • Review engineering designs and shipbuilder deliverables for compliance with program requirements and design standard, supporting cutter modernization and structural design reviews.
  • Provide technical guidance on welding, structural fabrication, and producibility.
  • Support development of specifications, SOWs, CDRLs, and technical responses during design reviews.
  • Collaborate with the USCG Ship Design Team, Technical Authorities, shipbuilders, and multidisciplinary teams to resolve integration issues and reduce technical risk.
  • Conduct analysis and design of auxiliary systems, lead development of technical data packages and reviews
  • Additional duties include supporting dock trials, sea trials, stability tests, and speed-power evaluations.

Qualifications
  • Secret clearance or ability to obtain one
  • BS or MS in Engineering, Marine Engineering, Naval Architecture, Mechanical Engineering, or related technical field from an ABET-accredited institution
  • 3+ years of relevant experience required
  • 7+ years supporting ACAT I programs preferred
  • Experience with federal shipbuilding or boat acquisition programs preferred
  • Familiarity with USN and commercial ship design rules, including ABS / NVR
  • Experience with HM&E systems, auxiliary systems, and technical package development
  • This position is Hybrid. Currently 3 days in office, 2 days remote.

Pay Transparency Statement
AMERICAN SYSTEMS is committed to pay transparency for our applicants and employee-owners. The salary range for this position is USD $110,000.00/Yr. - USD $125,000/Yr. Actual compensation will be determined based on several factors permitted by law. AMERICAN SYSTEMS provides for the welfare of its employees and their dependents through a comprehensive benefits program by offering healthcare benefits, paid leave, retirement plans, insurance programs, and education and training assistance.
EEO Statement
EEO Race/Sex/Disability Status/Veteran Status