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Merchant Marine Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

US Department of the Navy

MARINE SURVEYOR

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$75K/yr

Coast Guard licensed marine engineer in the merchant marine. * For GS-11 (or equivalent), applicants must have sailed under a 2nd Assistant license for at least 1 year. * For GS-12 (or equivalent ...

Military Sealift Command

MARINE SURVEYOR

Norfolk, VA · On-site +1

$75K - $98K/yr

Coast Guard licensed marine engineer in the merchant marine. * For GS-11 (or equivalent), applicants must have sailed under a 2nd Assistant license for at least 1 year. * For GS-12 (or equivalent ...

QED SYSTEMS, INC.

$32 - $45/hr

... engineering roles. Equivalent combinations of education and experience may include completion of Naval technical training such as: * Naval Academy * Merchant Marine Academy * Military Class A or C ...

GovFirst

Marine/Maritime Assistant Engineer

Surry, VA · On-site

Marine/Maritime Assistant Engineer Location: Surry, VA Employment Type: Full-Time (W2) GovFirst is ... Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) endorsed as Assistant Engineer for motor vessels of at least 3 ...

GovFirst

Marine/Maritime Assistant Engineer

Surry, VA · On-site

Marine/Maritime Assistant Engineer Location: Surry, VA Employment Type: Full-Time (W2) GovFirst is ... Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) required Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC ...

QED SYSTEMS, INC.

Diesel Planner/Estimator

Norfolk, VA

$32 - $45/hr

... engineering roles. Equivalent combinations of education and experience may include completion of Naval technical training such as: * Naval Academy * Merchant Marine Academy * Military Class A or C ...

QED Systems, Inc.

Diesel Planner/Estimator

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$32 - $45/hr

... engineering roles. Equivalent combinations of education and experience may include completion of Naval technical training such as: * Naval Academy * Merchant Marine Academy * Military Class A or C ...

QED Systems, Inc.

Diesel Planner/Estimator

Norfolk, VA

$32 - $45/hr

... engineering roles. Equivalent combinations of education and experience may include completion of Naval technical training such as: * Naval Academy * Merchant Marine Academy * Military Class A or C ...

GovFirst

Designated Duty Engineer

Surry, VA · On-site

S. Coast Guard (USCG) regulations, VDOT policies, and accepted marine engineering practices ... Minimum Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) endorsed as Designated Duty Engineer (DDE) - Motor ...

GovFirst

Designated Duty Engineer

Surry, VA · On-site

S. Coast Guard (USCG) regulations, VDOT policies, and accepted marine engineering practices ... Minimum Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) endorsed as Designated Duty Engineer (DDE) - Motor ...

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All JobsMerchant Marine Engineer JobsMerchant Marine Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Merchant Marine Engineer information

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$25

$42

$75

How much do merchant marine engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for merchant 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 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 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.

Is it hard to get a job in Merchant Marine Engineer?

Getting a job as a Merchant Marine Engineer can be competitive and typically requires relevant certifications, such as a Merchant Mariner Credential, and experience at sea. Opportunities depend on industry demand, vessel availability, and the individual's qualifications and training in marine engineering systems. Building skills in navigation, safety protocols, and technical maintenance improves employability in this field.

What does a merchant marine engineer do?

A merchant marine engineer is responsible for operating, maintaining, and repairing the propulsion systems, engines, and auxiliary machinery on ships. They ensure the safe and efficient functioning of the vessel's mechanical systems and typically hold certifications such as a Merchant Mariner Credential. Their work environment is onboard ships, often requiring working in shifts and adhering to safety protocols.

What does a merchant marine engineer make?

A merchant marine engineer typically earns between $70,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, vessel type, and rank. They are responsible for maintaining and operating the ship's propulsion and auxiliary systems, often working on a schedule that includes extended periods at sea. Certifications such as a Merchant Mariner Credential are required for employment in this field.

What are the most commonly searched types of Merchant Marine Engineer jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Merchant Marine Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Merchant Marine Engineer jobs in Virginia?

For Merchant Marine Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Merchant Marine Engineer jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Merchant Marine Engineer jobs in Virginia are:

Merchant Marine Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Merchant Marine Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 4% 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.

MARINE SURVEYOR

Norfolk, VA

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)
Public Administration • 10K+ employees

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 538 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 49 rated military and defense

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students

Learn more about U.S. Department of Defense (DOD)external

$75K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Job description

This is a public notice flyer to notify interested applicants of anticipated vacancies. Applications will not be accepted through this flyer. Interested applicants must follow the directions in the "How to Apply" section of this flyer to be considered. There may or may not be actual vacancies filled from this flyer. Notice of Result letters will not be sent to applicants who respond to this flyer.
All vacancies are located in the Assistant Port Engineer Branch (N757) in Norfolk, VA.Qualifications:Basic Requirements
This series covers technical positions supervising, leading, or performing work involving surveying Government-owned and/or operated vessels, or privately-owned and operated merchant vessels, to determine their condition and the extent of work necessary for the vessels and their components to meet specified requirements. The work requires applying a practical knowledge of:
  • preparing specifications, including estimates of labor and material costs, to cover work determined to be necessary as a result of surveys; and
  • inspecting and accepting the work accomplished to place the vessel in the condition specified.

Experience Requirements
Specialized Experience (for all positions): per OPM
Applicants must have had 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level in the normal line of progression. Specialized experience is responsible work in the maintenance and repair of ocean-going vessels that demonstrated the ability to survey and inspect such vessels for the purposes of classification, appraisal, determination of general conditions and fitness for operation, and determination of the extent of damage sustained and type and cost of repairs and reconditioning required. This experience may have been gained in marine surveying or other work such as:
  • Seagoing experience as a U.S. Coast Guard licensed marine engineer in the merchant marine.
    • For GS-11 (or equivalent), applicants must have sailed under a 2nd Assistant license for at least 1 year.
    • For GS-12 (or equivalent), applicants must have sailed under a 1st Assistant license for at least 1 year.
  • Experience in a ship repair yard or in the engineering department of a steamship company serving in positions such as marine superintendent or port engineer.

Specialized Experience (for all positions): per Agency
GS-12:
In addition to the Basic Requirements for this position, your resume must also demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience at or equivalent to the GS-11 grade level or pay band in the Federal service or equivalent experience in the private or public sector. Specialized experience must demonstrate the following:
  • Experience interpreting commercial regulatory bodies such as the American Bureau of Shipping, United States Coast Guard, American Petroleum Institute, America Society of Testing Materials, and MARPOL requirements and their standards, policies and procedures as they apply to the operation and maintenance of a combined commercial and military fleet of ships.
  • Experience supporting the alteration, improvement, maintenance and repair of assigned ship classes.
  • Experience supporting the liaison process between sponsors, design agents, shipyards, and contractors on maintenance, repair, funding and scheduling for matters impacting assigned ship classes.
  • Experience conducting ship checks to verify the work item technical requirements and regularly work with the ships force to troubleshoot systems and technically analyze the cause of casualties.

GS-11:
In addition to the Basic Requirements for this position, your resume must also demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience at or equivalent to the GS-09 grade level or pay band in the Federal service or equivalent experience in the private or public sector. Specialized experience must demonstrate the following:
  • Experience utilizing a wide range of shipboard main and auxiliary systems.
  • Experience utilizing vessel operations and maintenance both in a commercial and military environment.
  • Experience reviewing plans, specifications, preliminary technical reports, design drawings, specifications for ship maintenance and repairs, and alterations.
  • Experience communicating on equipment and system life cycle issues.

Additional qualification information can be found from the following Office of Personnel Management website:
https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/0800/marine-survey-technical-series-0873/
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment.Education:There is no educational substitution for a GS-0873-12.
There is no educational substitution for a GS-0873-11.Employment Type: OTHER

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