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Port Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Astrion

East Coast Port Engineer

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Overview East Coast Port Engineer LOCATION: Virginia Beach, VA JOB STATUS: Full Time CLEARANCE: Secret TRAVEL: SALARY: $100,000 to $130,000 Systems Engineering Group (SEG), a wholly owned subsidiary ...

Astrion

East Coast Port Engineer

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

Overview East Coast Port Engineer LOCATION: Virginia Beach, VA JOB STATUS: Full Time CLEARANCE: Secret TRAVEL: SALARY: $100,000 to $130,000   Systems Engineering Group (SEG), a wholly owned ...

Emprise Corporation

Senior Marine Engineer

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$101K - $139K/yr

Attend Port Engineer Vessel Inspections (PEVI), Ship Material Assessment Readiness Testing (SMART), regulatory body inspections and other ship material assessments to accurately determine ship ...

MANTECH

Naval Platform Engineer

Portsmouth, VA

Coordinate with Port Engineers, Technical Warrant Holders, In-Service Engineering Agents, Ship Design Managers and Regional Maintenance Centers in all matters concerning maintenance and modernization

Steampunk

AI Innovation Engineer

Mclean, VA

Overview We are seeking a hands-on, creative, and technically strong AI Innovation Engineer to support our client delivery teams in bringing modern AI solutions to life within public-sector ...

ManTech

Naval Platform Engineer

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

Coordinate with Port Engineers, Technical Warrant Holders, In-Service Engineering Agents, Ship Design Managers and Regional Maintenance Centers in all matters concerning maintenance and modernization

Steampunk

AI Innovation Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

Overview We are seeking a hands-on, creative, and technically strong AI Innovation Engineer to support our client delivery teams in bringing modern AI solutions to life within public-sector ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsPort Engineer JobsPort Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Port Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$16.9K

$120.8K

$185.9K

How much do port engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for port engineer in Virginia is $120,810.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,700.00 and $185,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a port engineer do?

A port engineer is responsible for maintaining and managing the infrastructure and equipment at a port or maritime facility. They oversee repairs, ensure safety standards, and coordinate with ship crews and other stakeholders, often using tools like maintenance management software. Strong technical knowledge and certifications in maritime or engineering fields are typically required.

What are some common challenges a Port Engineer faces when managing vessel maintenance schedules?

Port Engineers often encounter challenges in balancing routine maintenance with unexpected repairs, especially when vessels have tight operational schedules. Coordinating with ship crews, contractors, and suppliers to ensure timely completion of work while minimizing downtime is crucial. Additionally, managing budget constraints and adhering to regulatory compliance can add complexity to the role. Effective communication and strong organizational skills are key to overcoming these obstacles and ensuring vessels remain seaworthy and operational.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. These roles typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and sometimes leadership responsibilities or working in high-cost-of-living areas.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Port Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Port Engineer, you need a solid background in marine engineering, vessel maintenance, and regulatory compliance, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree and maritime certifications. Familiarity with ship management software, maintenance planning systems, and industry standards such as SOLAS and MARPOL is crucial. Strong problem-solving, organizational skills, and effective communication are essential for coordinating repairs and collaborating with ship crews and vendors. These skills ensure the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of vessels, minimizing downtime and maintaining port and fleet reliability.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as petroleum, aerospace, or software engineering can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High-paying engineering positions often require advanced degrees, professional certifications, and work in high-demand industries or senior management levels.

What are Port Engineers?

Port Engineers are professionals responsible for overseeing the maintenance, repair, and operation of ships and marine equipment while they are docked at a port. They manage technical aspects, coordinate with ship crews and contractors, and ensure vessels comply with all safety and environmental regulations. Port Engineers play a crucial role in ensuring that ships are seaworthy and ready for their next voyage, often managing budgets and timelines for repair projects. Their work is vital to minimize downtime and maintain the efficiency of shipping operations.

What is the difference between Port Engineer vs Marine Engineer?

AspectPort EngineerMarine Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, certifications in port operationsMarine engineering degree, maritime certifications
Work EnvironmentPort facilities, shipyards, maritime terminalsShips, engine rooms, maritime vessels
Industry UsagePort authorities, shipping companies, logisticsShipping lines, vessel operators, shipbuilding
Primary FocusPort infrastructure, vessel maintenance coordinationShip engine systems, propulsion, machinery

While both roles involve maritime environments, a Port Engineer primarily manages port facilities and vessel maintenance at port sites, whereas a Marine Engineer focuses on the technical operation and repair of ship engines and machinery onboard vessels.

How much do port engineers make in the US?

Port engineers in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $80,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Senior or specialized port engineers can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $120,000 annually. Salaries may also vary based on the size and complexity of the port facilities and the engineer's technical skills.

What Does a Port Engineer Do?

A port engineer works on the technical aspects of operations and infrastructure at a port. You oversee ship maintenance and repair, and your duties include ensuring that engineering work meets safety standards and marine regulations. During projects, you remain present on the dock to offer guidance to technical personnel. The responsibilities of many port engineers include managing a maintenance budget and finding ways to lower costs and increase the efficiency of port operations. You may communicate with ships on the ocean to coordinate maintenance. You may also work on harbor improvements, dredging, and other infrastructure projects.

More about Port Engineer jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Port Engineer jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Port Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Port Engineer jobs in Virginia? For Port Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Port Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Port Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Port Engineer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Port Engineer job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Port Engineer jobs in VA? For Port Engineer jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Port Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Port Engineer job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $120,810 per year, or $58.1 per hour.

Port Engineer - Tanker

Constellation Navigation and Trading, LLC

Norfolk, VA • On-site

$79K - $106K/yr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

Port Engineer – Tanker

Lead Critical Maritime Operations. Drive Performance. Shape the Future of U.S. Shipping.

At USMMI, you won’t just manage ships—you’ll help power the backbone of U.S. commerce and national security.

As a trusted leader in the maritime industry, USMMI operates a fleet of vessels supporting both commercial trade and vital government programs, including the Military Sealift Command and the Maritime Administration’s Tanker Security Program (TSP). Our work sits at the intersection of operational excellence, engineering innovation, and mission-critical logistics.

We are known for doing things the right way — holding ourselves to the highest global standards and continuously advancing best practices aligned with OCIMF. Our team brings deep expertise in ship operations, design, and lifecycle management, enabling us to deliver smart, reliable solutions in a complex and evolving industry.

Why Join USMMI

  • Mission-Driven Work: Support operations that directly impact U.S. economic strength and national security.
  • High-Impact Role: Your decisions directly influence vessel performance, safety, and charter success.
  • Professional Respect: Work alongside experienced mariners and engineers who value expertise and leadership.
  • Growth & Ownership: Take ownership of fleet performance and drive meaningful improvements.
  • Dynamic Environment: Split time between office strategy and hands-on vessel and shipyard operations.


Your Impact

As a Port Engineer, you will take ownership of the technical performance, safety, and compliance of MR tankers operating in the Jones Act trade. You’ll serve as a critical link between shipboard teams and shoreside leadership—ensuring vessels operate safely, efficiently, and at peak readiness.

This is a role for a seasoned Chief Engineer ready to transition to the shoreside (or elevate their current port engineering career) and make a measurable impact across a fleet.

What You’ll Do

  • Lead the technical management and operational readiness of assigned vessels.
  • Partner with Masters and Chief Engineers to ensure safe, efficient voyages.
  • Plan and execute maintenance strategies, repairs, and drydock periods.
  • Own and manage vessel budgets, balancing cost control with operational excellence.
  • Drive compliance across USCG, ABS, EPA, and international regulatory frameworks.
  • Champion safety culture and proactively address risks across the fleet.
  • Analyze performance data to improve reliability, fuel efficiency, and lifecycle outcomes.
  • Troubleshoot complex engineering issues and support crews with practical solutions.
  • Oversee vendor, shipyard, and class engagements for inspections and certifications.
  • Lead incident investigations and ensure effective corrective actions.
  • Contribute to audits and vetting programs (TMSA, SIRE 2.0, ISM, ISO).
  • Advance continuous improvement initiatives aligned with OCIMF best practices.

What You Bring

Required Experience & Credentials

  • U.S. Coast Guard Chief Engineer License (Unlimited HP) with Tank Vessel endorsement.
  • 10+ years sailing as Chief Engineer on MR tankers (40,000–50,000 DWT preferred).
  • Bachelor’s degree in marine engineering or related field.
  • Strong knowledge of U.S. and international maritime regulations (USCG, ABS, SOLAS/MARPOL, TMSA, SIRE 2.0).
  • Expertise in low-speed diesel propulsion, electrical systems, cargo systems, and automation.
  • Proven experience planning and executing drydock projects and managing budgets.


Core Strengths

  • Leadership and decision-making in high-stakes operational environments
  • Strong communication across shipboard and executive stakeholders
  • Analytical mindset with a focus on performance optimization
  • Hands-on problem solving with practical, field-ready solutions

Additional Requirements

  • Valid TWIC and U.S. Passport
  • Ability to travel extensively (domestic and international, often on short notice)
  • U.S. citizenship with eligibility for Secret clearance


Preferred

  • Prior port engineer or fleet management experience
  • Advanced degree in engineering management or related discipline


Work Environment & Travel

This role blends office-based planning with hands-on field execution:

  • Location: Norfolk, Virginia – On-Site
  • Travel: Extensive travel (including foreign travel and travel in cars, boats, ships, and airplanes) will be required to attend to shipyard maintenance, to ride vessels or visit vessels for quality assurance and general management of vessel and crews, and on short notice for casualties, to conduct investigations and to protect the company’s reputation, or as directed by management
  • Physical Demands & Work Environment


The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.


General office setting, typically the employee may sit comfortably to perform the work, usually at a computer terminal with short breaks or lunch period. However, there may be some bending/stooping, reaching above shoulder level, walking; standing; carrying of light items such as papers, books, or packages of up to 25 pounds. You should be able to hear & speak clearly using phone / headset to communicate with customers; be able to navigate, view & enter information on the computer.


Operations Setting: typically, the employee must be able to be in Confined Spaces, Sit, Stand, Walk, Bend, Push/Pull, Kneel, Squat, Reaching and Twisting. Can not have any Fear of Heights. Also need the ability to consistently be able to lift 10lb – 100lb utilizing Folding Hand Truck & Dolly, Rolling Utility Carts or Single Hand Trucks (70 – 100%) of time.



Our Commitment to You

At USMMI, we are committed to providing a workplace where safety, professionalism, and respect come first. We invest in our people and empower them to take ownership, lead with confidence, and grow their careers in a meaningful way.

Ready to Take the Helm Shoreside

If you’re a seasoned Chief Engineer or experienced Port Engineer looking to make a broader impact, this is your opportunity to lead, influence, and help shape the future of maritime operations.