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Port Engineer Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

AI/ML Model Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

AI/ML Model Engineer**, you will develop machine learning models that optimize automation and generate data driven insights. The role involves testing model performance, refining algorithms, and ...

They are seeking an AI/ML Model Engineer to develop machine learning models that optimize automation and generate data-driven insights, while also testing model performance and monitoring AI systems ...

... port-channels (vpcs)) - Willingness to perform layer 1 tasks as needed (pulling cable, racking ... Engineering Review Boards and other ad-hoc technical briefings as necessary Desirable ...

You own the low-level design layer: rack elevations, wiring lists, port assignments, cable ... This is a hands-on engineering role. You work closely with the Architect as a technical authority ...

You own the low-level design layer: rack elevations, wiring lists, port assignments, cable ... This is a hands-on engineering role. You work closely with the Architect as a technical authority ...

Lead Systems Engineer

Gaithersburg, MD · On-site

$87K - $157K/yr

You own the low-level design layer: rack elevations, wiring lists, port assignments, cable ... This is a hands-on engineering role. You work closely with the Architect as a technical authority ...

M&J Engineering is a leader in construction management and inspection, ITS, mechanical, electrical, wastewater, water supply, tunnel airport, port, marine/coastal, environmental engineering, and ...

M&J Engineering is a leader in construction management and inspection, ITS, mechanical, electrical, wastewater, water supply, tunnel airport, port, marine/coastal, environmental engineering, and ...

M&J Engineering is a leader in construction management and inspection, ITS, mechanical, electrical, wastewater, water supply, tunnel airport, port, marine/coastal, environmental engineering, and ...

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Showing results 1-20

Port Engineer information

See Washington, DC salary details

$19.2K

$137.6K

$211.7K

How much do port engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for port engineer in Washington, DC is $137,600.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,500.00 and $211,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a port engineer?

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 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.

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 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 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, especially in major port cities or with advanced skills in project management and maritime systems.

What are the most commonly searched types of Port Engineer jobs in Washington, DC?

The most popular types of Port Engineer jobs in Washington, DC are:

What are popular job titles related to Port Engineer jobs in Washington, DC?

For Port Engineer jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Port Engineer job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $138,013 per year, or $66.4 per hour.

$180K - $220K/yr

Full-time

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


SAIC rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 81 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

103rd of 226 rated it services


Job description


SAIC is seeking an experienced AI/ML Engineer to serve as a senior technical advisor, ensuring infrastructure supports frontier AI models, mission use cases, and rapid R&D experimentation. Support model-agnostic infrastructure leveraging partnerships with AI Titans and existing enterprise solutions.
Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
  • Provide expert guidance on AI/ML infrastructure requirements for models, including, for example frontier and foundational models
  • Assess technical approaches for GPU cluster architecture, model training, and inference at scale
  • Evaluate contractor's model-agnostic approach and partnerships with AI Titans
  • Support evaluation of AI/ML use cases
  • Advise on data fusion architectures across datasets
  • Assess AI model deployment, orchestration, and Machine Learning Ops (MLOps) requirements for rapid experimentation
  • Guide R&D experimentation framework and capability demonstration planning
  • Support experimentation support contract coordination with use case development
  • Evaluate hardware benchmark performance against requirements
  • Support onboarding and sustainment model development
  • Support briefings to senior leadership on AI technical approaches, risks, and use case readiness

Qualifications
Required Experience:
  • Active TS SCI w/Poly
  • Bachelor's degree and 14 years or more experience; Master's degree and 12 years or more experience; PhD and 9 years or more experience
  • 10+ years in data management and processing experience with strong emphasis in AI/ML
  • Deep expertise in AI/ML model training and inference infrastructure
  • Frontier AI models (large language models, multimodal models, etc.) and model-agnostic architectures
  • GPU cluster architecture and high-performance AI computing
  • MLOps, model deployment, and orchestration platforms
  • Data fusion
  • AI/ML frameworks
  • COTS AI infrastructure and enterprise solution integration
  • Partnerships with commercial AI providers and technology transfer
  • Technical leadership and senior-level communication
  • Rapid experimentation and use case development methodologies

Target salary range: $180,000 - $220,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.
About Us
SAIC® is a premier mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.
We are approximately 23,000 strong; driven by mission, united by purpose, and inspired by opportunities. SAIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $7.3 billion. For more information, visit saic.com. For ongoing news, please visit our newsroom.

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