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Merchant Marine Engine Room Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Oiler must have a good understanding of all Engine room machinery and auxiliary systems to ... Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) * Currently hold the following endorsements on Merchant Mariner ...

$27.25 - $32.50/hr

Troubleshoots and repairs engine equipment and systems on assigned Army vessels; * Support all ... S. Coast Guard Merchant Marine Document (MMD) with a QMED- oiler endorsement or higher-level ...

Prior Navy (Nuclear or Conventional) or Merchant Marine engine room experience is a plus * Industrial journeyman level and on-the-job experience as a stationary engineer and/or heavy industrial ...

Prior Navy (Nuclear or Conventional) or Merchant Marine engine room experience is a plus * Industrial journeyman level and on-the-job experience as a stationary engineer and/or heavy industrial ...

Makes routine rounds of engine room, facility and casino spaces notifying management of any unusual ... Desire past mechanical and electrical experience in a military, merchant marine or plant operations ...

Marine Engineer

Staten Island, NY · On-site

$125K - $150K/yr

Assists the CME or other superior officer in the supervision and direction of the engine room crew ... Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with endorsement and medical certificate must be maintained for ...

Makes routine rounds of engine room, facility and casino spaces notifying management of any unusual ... Desire past mechanical and electrical experience in a military, merchant marine or plant operations ...

Assists the CME or other superior officer in the supervision and direction of the engine room crew ... Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with endorsement and medical certificate must be maintained for ...

Assists the CME or other superior officer in the supervision and direction of the engine room crew ... Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with endorsement and medical certificate must be maintained for ...

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Merchant Marine Engine Room information

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$12

$22

$37

How much do merchant marine engine room jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for merchant marine engine room in the United States is $22.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $24.52 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Merchant Marine Engine Room jobs?

Merchant Marine Engine Room jobs involve operating, maintaining, and repairing the machinery and systems that power ships at sea. These roles include positions such as marine engineers, engine officers, and oilers who work below deck to ensure the vessel’s engines, boilers, pumps, and other mechanical systems run smoothly. Engine room personnel are responsible for regular inspections, troubleshooting, and keeping detailed records of maintenance work. They play a crucial role in the safe and efficient operation of merchant vessels, both during voyages and while docked. These jobs require technical training, often through maritime academies or apprenticeships, and certification to work on various types of ships.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a Merchant Marine Engine Room, and why are they important?

To thrive in a Merchant Marine Engine Room, you need solid mechanical and electrical knowledge, maritime engineering qualifications, and relevant Coast Guard or STCW certifications. Familiarity with engine monitoring systems, fuel management controls, and safety protocols is required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are vital soft skills in this environment. These skills and qualifications are critical to ensuring the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of a ship's propulsion and power systems.

What are some common challenges faced by Merchant Marine Engine Room personnel during long voyages?

Merchant Marine Engine Room personnel often encounter challenges such as maintaining equipment reliability under continuous operation, managing fatigue due to shift work, and troubleshooting mechanical issues far from shore. The engine room can be a high-stress environment, especially during emergencies when quick and accurate decisions are crucial. Effective teamwork and communication with deck officers and other crew members are essential to ensure smooth vessel operations and safety at sea.

What is the difference between Merchant Marine Engine Room vs Marine Engineer?

AspectMerchant Marine Engine RoomMarine Engineer
CertificationsSTCW certifications, Merchant Mariner CredentialSTCW certifications, Engineering licenses
Work EnvironmentOnboard ships, confined engine spacesOn ships or in shipyards, engine rooms or workshops
Industry UsageMaritime shipping, cargo vesselsShip operation, maintenance, design

The Merchant Marine Engine Room refers to the physical space and crew working within the ship's engine compartment, focusing on operational tasks. A Marine Engineer is a licensed professional responsible for maintaining and repairing ship engines and systems. While both roles require similar certifications and work environments, the Merchant Marine Engine Room describes the location and crew, whereas Marine Engineer describes the professional role and responsibilities.

Infographic showing various Merchant Marine Engine Room job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 90% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 5% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,925 per year, or $22.1 per hour.
Marine Electrician

$39.38/hr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Job Summary
Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution is currently searching for a Marine Electrician. Reporting to Chief Engineer/First Assistant, assists with the proper operation, maintenance, and repair of electrical equipment and systems on the R/V Neil Armstrong and R/V Atlantis; and assists scientific personnel in using shipboard power.
Job Description
Able to work with minimum supervision. Maintains and repairs electrical power generating and distribution systems; voltage regulators, engine governors, and equipment; machinery monitoring and remote control systems; power, control, and display systems of deck and science-related equipment, and DC propulsion generators, motors, and control circuits. Assists with repairs in port. Performs routine checks of electrical equipment including daily check of lighting, indicators, motor controllers, and wiring, monthly checks of test batteries of auxiliary and emergency generators, general alarm, and bridge lighting; mast and sound-powered telephone inspection and maintenance. Quarterly check of insulation test readings; maintains all moving parts of windlass, winches, and related deck machinery; and inspects secure connections. Yearly check of main and emergency boards, and masthead lights. Advises scientific crew on most suitable use of electrical power; maintains science winch displays and power circuits in labs; helps determine electrical requirements; and supervises adapting and connecting of scientific equipment to shipboard power. Performs day work and other duties as required.
High school diploma or equivalent education, two years sea duty as an Engineer or Electrician on a similar vessel; in the absence of a diploma, equivalent work experience.
Require U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner's credential endorsed as an Electrician or 3rd Assistant engineer unlimited HP, Motor.
Candidates must have good communication skills, familiarity with a variety of engine room and ship's electrical systems, the ability to discern and help repair equipment malfunctions and to perform basic mathematical calculations, and demonstrate good safety practices and procedures.
In addition, all unlicensed personnel must have all applicable training as required by the Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW 95) and a Transportation Workers Identification Credential (TWIC) and hold an unexpired Passport. Must be able to pass a Pre-employment DOT drug screen. Must hold an Unexpired (STCW Expiration date) USCG med Certificate.
Additional Job Requirements
Hourly Rate: $39.38. The hourly rate provided for this position reflects the set base pay for new hires. Annual compensation will be based on this hourly rate and the number of hours worked, in accordance with applicable wage and hour laws. In addition to hourly pay, eligible employees may also receive a comprehensive benefits package.
All marine positions have essential functions that personnel must be able to perform, minimum physical capacities and requirements that all personnel must meet, and working conditions that may be considered hazardous. Working at least 8 hours per day and, at times in excess of 12 hours per day, 7 days per week. Work at sea for three to five months continuously. Live and work in cramped quarters, frequently in bad weather and with violent ship motion. Pass examinations for visual acuity, color sense, and hearing as established in Title 46 CFR Parts 10 and 12, and pass a physical evaluation as described in the enclosed Navigation and Vessel Inspection Articles 6-89. Climb steep and vertical ladders, and enter and exit compartments through hatches, doors, and sills up to two feet high. Participate in emergency drills and in launching lifeboats and life rafts. Perform physical labor, climb and handle moderate weights and equipment over 50 pounds. Physical Capability Example of Essential Function Balance Work in confined and unstable areas. Bend, kneel, squat Clean, maintain, and inspect equipment. Climb Reach work areas, equipment and stores by ladder and stairs. Crawl Crawl through bilge pockets, and under ladders and winch beds. Feel Touch objects: where sight is limited. Finger Manipulate nuts, bolts, tools, and cleaning gear. Handle Handle equipment and stores with sure grip. Hear, talk Communicate with people. Lift, carry Load stores over 50 pounds. Push, pull Move equipment over 50 pounds. Reach Up, over, and under equipment and stores. See Read labels, menus, logs, charts, and gauges in poor lighting. Sit Operate crane, Avon, lifeboat, and life raft. Stand Work on equipment. Walk Perform rounds at sea. Write Maintain logs. Work Condition Example of Hazardous Area/Duty Confined areas Store rooms, engine spaces, and tanks Potential allergens and irritants Fuels, solvents, cleaners, dust, fumes, smoke, and gases Adverse weather On deck in rough seas during equipment maintenance Extreme temperatures On deck in tropics and high latitudes; in engine room Potential hazards Being at sea; slippery and uneven surfaces; moving parts and objects; climbing ladders; and working aloft Noise Constant and loud engine room noise, blowers, exhaust fans Schedule Protracted and irregular working hours Vibrations Ship's engines and chipping hammer.
WHOI accepts applications on a rolling basis - applications will be reviewed as they are received, and we encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible to ensure full consideration. While we will continue to review applications until the position is filled, and early applicants may have an advantage in the selection process.
EEO Statement
Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.