ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Merchant Marine Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsMerchant Marine Engineer JobsMerchant Marine Engineer Jobs in Michigan

Merchant Marine Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$21

$37

$66

How much do merchant marine engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for merchant marine engineer in Michigan is $37.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.88 and $44.86 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a merchant marine engineer?

To thrive as a Merchant Marine Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical and marine engineering principles, often supported by a relevant degree and requisite licensure or certification such as a U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC). Familiarity with engine room operations, maintenance management systems, and diagnostic tools is important for efficient machinery operation and troubleshooting. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication are valuable soft skills for addressing onboard challenges and collaborating with crew members. These competencies are vital to ensure the safe, reliable, and compliant operation of shipboard mechanical systems during voyages.

What are typical work schedules and living conditions like for merchant marine engineers onboard ships?

Merchant Marine Engineers usually work in rotations or shifts while at sea, such as 4 hours on and 8 hours off, to ensure round-the-clock machinery operation and maintenance. Living conditions typically include shared or private cabins, with access to communal dining and recreation areas, and the work environment can be physically demanding due to noise, heat, and confined spaces. Engineers spend several weeks or months onboard, followed by extended leave periods ashore. This schedule offers a unique lifestyle with long periods away from home, but it also provides opportunities for travel and significant time off between assignments. If you enjoy hands-on technical work, international travel, and the camaraderie of a close-knit team, this career path offers a rewarding and distinct work environment.

What is a merchant marine engineer?

A Merchant Marine Engineer is responsible for operating, maintaining, and repairing the mechanical and electrical systems on a commercial vessel. They ensure the ship's engines, boilers, pumps, and other critical equipment function efficiently and safely. Engineers work in a hierarchical structure, from Third Assistant Engineer to Chief Engineer, with increasing responsibility. Their role is essential for the smooth operation of cargo ships, tankers, passenger vessels, and other maritime transport.

What are the most commonly searched types of Merchant Marine Engineer jobs in Michigan? The most popular types of Merchant Marine Engineer jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Merchant Marine Engineer jobs in Michigan? For Merchant Marine Engineer jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Merchant Marine Engineer jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Merchant Marine Engineer jobs in Michigan are:
Merchant Marine Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Merchant Marine Engineer job openings in Michigan 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 $77,821 per year, or $37.4 per hour.

2nd Assistant Engineer

Grand River Navigation Co. Inc

Mancelona, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

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

Job description

Description:

Come Sail with us on the Great Lakes!

If you are looking to become part of our team that strongly values safety, efficient operations, a family-oriented environment, come sail with us! Grand River Navigation has one of the best leave and rotation systems on the Great Lakes. With unprecedented teamwork and some of the most talented colleagues in the industry we can guarantee you will enjoy a career with us!

Grand River Navigation Company is the U.S. operating subsidiary of Mainstay Maritime. We are one of the largest marine transportation service providers operating on the Great Lakes today with a combined fleet of 15 bulk freight vessels that provide service to over 50 customers across the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Seaway.

Competitive total rewards package including income, paid travel to/from the vessel, healthcare benefits, retirement savings plans and work/life balance with best-in-class rotation. We have many education opportunities and upgrade bonuses to support career growth at a pace that is right for each individual.

"We can go where the big ships go and also where they can't!"

Our Company is searching for qualified candidates for the position of 2nd Assistant Engineer aboard our US flagged self-unloading vessels.

Responsibilities

  • Stand engineering watches and assist with the safe operation of vessel machinery and equipment.
  • Perform routine maintenance, repairs, and troubleshooting of propulsion and auxiliary systems.
  • Monitor engine room operations and report equipment issues to senior engineering officers.
  • Maintain engineering logs, maintenance records, and regulatory documentation.
  • Assist with fuel transfers, bunkering operations, and inventory of engineering supplies.
  • Support compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements.
  • Participate in emergency response drills and vessel emergency operations.
  • Maintain clean, safe, and organized engine room and machinery spaces.
  • Assist with drydock projects, inspections, and major equipment overhauls as needed.
  • Perform other duties assigned by the Chief Engineer in support of vessel operations.

Benefits

  • As an employee, you are part of the Mainstay Maritime family where teamwork and safety are core values
  • Highly competitive wages and benefits including medical, dental, vision, company paid long-term and short-term disability and life insurance, 401K with company match
  • Excellent companywide safety record
  • Company paid training and education opportunities

Job Type: Full Time - Permanent

Requirements:
  • TWIC Card - Transportation Worker Identification Credential
  • United States Merchant Mariners Credential (MMC) issued by the United States Coast Guard (USCG)
  • MMC Endorsement as 2nd Assistant Engineer of Motor Propelled Vessels Unlimited Horsepower
  • Unexpired US Passport or Enhanced Driver's License and allowed entry into Canada
  • Legally authorized to work in the US, without restriction
  • Excellent communication and ability to multi-task
  • Experience working as a team and desire to working together as a team player
  • Experience and desires to align to our Values: Creating a Positive Customer Experience, Health/Safety/Environment focused, High Integrity and Teamwork

Grand River Navigation is an Equal Opportunity Employer All qualified applications will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, marital status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, nationality or sex, marital status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by law. We also comply with Family Medical Leave Act and Employee Rights Employee Polygraph Protection Act.

PI794e33cb04d4-26289-35740185

Apply