ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Port Engineering Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Astrion

East Coast Port Engineer

Virginia Beach, VA · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

SALARY: $100,000 to $130,000 Systems Engineering Group (SEG), a wholly owned subsidiary of Astrion LLC, is seeking enthusiastic candidates wanting to support the defense of our nation. SEG provides ...

Astrion

East Coast Port Engineer

Virginia Beach, VA

$100K - $130K/yr

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

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 ...

SubCom

Electronic Technician (3425)

Williamsburg, VA · On-site

The Electronic Technician (Navaids) will also be required to interact with shipyard personnel, port engineering staff, and equipment vendors. This position reports to the Electronic Technician ...

SubCom

Electronic Technician (7015)

Williamsburg, VA · On-site

The Electronic Technician (Navaids) will also be required to interact with shipyard personnel, port engineering staff, and equipment vendors. This position reports to the Electronic Technician ...

SubCom

Electronic Technician (7015)

Williamsburg, VA · On-site

The Electronic Technician (Navaids) will also be required to interact with shipyard personnel, port engineering staff, and equipment vendors. This position reports to the Electronic Technician ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPort Engineering JobsPort Engineering Jobs in Virginia

Port Engineering information

What is port engineering?

Port engineering is a specialized field of civil engineering focused on the design, construction, maintenance, and operation of ports, harbors, and related infrastructure. Port engineers work on projects such as docks, terminals, breakwaters, and navigation channels, ensuring they are safe, efficient, and environmentally sustainable. Their responsibilities may include managing dredging operations, designing cargo handling systems, and overseeing repairs to marine structures. The role often requires knowledge of coastal processes, environmental regulations, and large-scale project management.

What is the difference between Port Engineering vs Marine Engineering?

AspectPort EngineeringMarine Engineering
CredentialsBachelor's in Civil or Port Engineering, Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferredBachelor's in Marine Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Naval Architecture, Professional Engineer (PE) license optional
Work EnvironmentDesigning and managing port infrastructure, working on land-based projectsDesign, maintain, and repair ship systems, working on ships or in shipyards
Industry UsageUsed by port authorities, civil engineering firms, infrastructure developersUsed by shipping companies, naval architects, shipbuilders

Port Engineering focuses on designing and maintaining port facilities and infrastructure, primarily land-based projects. Marine Engineering involves the design and maintenance of ship systems and propulsion, working in maritime environments. While both roles require engineering credentials and are industry-related, they serve different aspects of maritime infrastructure and operations.

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, structural analysis, and project management, usually supported by a degree in engineering and relevant licensure. Familiarity with CAD software, port management systems, and compliance with maritime regulations is essential. Strong problem-solving, communication, and leadership skills help in coordinating multidisciplinary teams and managing complex projects. These abilities are crucial for ensuring efficient, safe, and sustainable port operations.

What are the most common challenges faced by Port Engineers and how can they be addressed?

Port Engineers often encounter challenges such as managing unexpected equipment failures, coordinating repairs with minimal disruption to port operations, and ensuring compliance with environmental and safety regulations. Effective communication with vessel crews, maintenance teams, and port authorities is essential to quickly resolve issues and maintain operational efficiency. Staying updated on the latest maritime technologies and regulatory changes also helps Port Engineers proactively address potential problems and advance in their careers.
What are popular job titles related to Port Engineering jobs in Virginia? For Port Engineering jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Port Engineering jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Port Engineering jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Port Engineering jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Port Engineering job openings:
Port Engineering jobs near you
Infographic showing various Port Engineering job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution.

Port Engineer - Tanker

Constellation Navigation and Trading, LLC

Norfolk, VA • On-site

$79K - $106K/yr

Full-time

Posted 16 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.