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Salvage Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

PCCI

Engineer II

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

Engineer II Location: Williamsburg, VA Schedule: Day, 40 hours/week Reports to: Lead Engineer Pay ... repair, salvage, or oil spill response equipment. In this role, you will apply your technical ...

PCCI

Engineer II

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

Engineer II Location: Williamsburg, VA Schedule: Day, 40 hours/week Reports to: Lead Engineer Pay ... repair, salvage, or oil spill response equipment. In this role, you will apply your technical ...

PCCI

Project Engineer II Naval Architect

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Project Engineer / Naval Architect Location: Alexandria, VA Hybrid Schedule: Day, 40 hours/week ... Mooring, Salvage, and Offshore Operations Support * Support planning, analysis, and execution of ...

PCCI

Project Engineer II Naval Architect

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Project Engineer / Naval Architect Location: Alexandria, VA Hybrid Schedule: Day, 40 hours/week ... Mooring, Salvage, and Offshore Operations Support * Support planning, analysis, and execution of ...

All JobsSalvage Engineer JobsSalvage Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA

Salvage Engineer information

See Reston, VA salary details

$38.5K

$90.7K

$142K

How much do salvage engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for salvage engineer in Reston, VA is $90,739.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,600.00 and $101,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a salvage engineer?

Salvage engineers are specialized professionals who plan and oversee the recovery of ships, cargo, or other property lost at sea, as well as the removal of wreckage that could pose a hazard to navigation or the environment. Their work involves assessing damage, developing salvage plans, coordinating equipment and crews, and ensuring safety and regulatory compliance during complex marine operations. Salvage engineers often work with naval architects, divers, and marine contractors to solve challenging technical problems in difficult conditions. Their expertise is crucial for minimizing environmental impact and restoring maritime operations after disasters.

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

To thrive as a Salvage Engineer, you need a solid background in marine engineering, structural analysis, and a relevant engineering degree, often supported by certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE) or Salvage & Marine Firefighting (SMFF) credentials. Familiarity with computer-aided design (CAD) software, underwater robotics, and salvage-specific equipment is essential. Strong problem-solving, leadership, and communication skills help coordinate complex operations and ensure safety under challenging conditions. These capabilities are crucial for executing successful salvage missions, minimizing risks, and protecting both assets and the environment.

What are some typical challenges salvage engineers face during marine recovery operations?

Salvage Engineers often encounter unpredictable weather conditions, limited visibility underwater, and complex logistical issues when recovering vessels or cargo. Coordinating with multidisciplinary teams—including divers, naval architects, and environmental specialists—is crucial to ensure safety and compliance with regulations. Additionally, Salvage Engineers must quickly adapt plans based on changing site conditions or emergent hazards, making problem-solving and flexibility essential skills in this role.

What is the difference between Salvage Engineer vs Marine Surveyor?

AspectSalvage EngineerMarine Surveyor
CredentialsEngineering degree, certifications in salvage and safetyEngineering or maritime degree, certifications in surveying
Work EnvironmentOn-site at salvage operations, ships, or disaster sitesOff-site inspections, shipyards, ports, or offices
Industry UsagePrimarily in maritime salvage, disaster response

Salvage Engineers focus on planning and executing the recovery of ships and cargo after accidents, often working directly at salvage sites. Marine Surveyors assess vessel condition, damage, and compliance, typically working in inspection settings. While both roles require maritime knowledge and certifications, Salvage Engineers are more involved in active recovery operations, whereas Marine Surveyors focus on assessment and reporting.

What are popular job titles related to Salvage Engineer jobs in Reston, VA?

For Salvage Engineer jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Salvage Engineer jobs in Reston, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Salvage Engineer jobs in Reston, VA are:

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Salvage Engineer jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Salvage Engineer job openings:

Salvage Engineer jobs near you

Engineer II

PCCI

Alexandria, VA • On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description


Engineer II Job Description

Location: Williamsburg, VA

Schedule: Day, 40 hours/week

Reports to: Lead Engineer

Pay range: $85,000-$95,000

Benefits: Competitive benefits and paid leave.

 

Job Summary:

We are seeking a skilled Engineer II with approximately two to four years of hands-on experience in mechanical/marine engineering, specializing in the design, maintenance, and operational support of load-carrying devices, hydraulic systems, and underwater ship repair, salvage, or oil spill response equipment. In this role, you will apply your technical expertise to ensure the reliability, safety, and efficiency of critical marine systems used in challenging environments. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams to troubleshoot complex mechanical and hydraulic issues, contribute to equipment upgrades, and support field operations in time-sensitive situations. Your work will directly impact mission readiness, environmental protection, and the success of high-stakes marine operations.

 

Key Responsibilities: 

Design and Analysis

  • Basic knowledge and application of standard techniques and methods in marine related engineering, design and development of new equipment and systems.
  • Basic knowledge and application of prescribed methods of hands on or practical engineering in the field including exposure to marine rigging, vessel operations, underwater ship repair operations and related disciplines is desirable.
  • Basic familiarity with equipment maintenance procedures, cost estimating, modification of existing equipment and configuration management procedures.
  • Takes on projects of higher complexity involving greater degrees of innovative problem solving and non-standard techniques for professional development.
  • Developing and reviewing engineering documents, 3D models and simulations, calculations, technical manuals and drawings with subsequent document and planning generation.
  • STRUCTURAL: Experience in structural analysis and evaluation of designs to meet required specifications, development and implementation of structural engineering drawings in the area of marine engineering, especially load bearing structures and hydraulic systems.
  • STRUCTURAL: Demonstrated experience and ability to interface with fabrication, machine shop, and welding personnel to provide technical support and direction for build and assembly of new equipment. 
  • STRUCTURAL: Demonstrated ability to manage and execute drawing revisions to correct deficiencies and develop revised equipment operation procedures and maintenance requirements in order to ensure structural integrity and safety of personnel.
  • TEST: Experience in the analysis and evaluation of test requirements, development and implementation of test plans, and formulation of final test reports and recommendations for new or modified equipment in the area of marine engineering, especially load carrying devices, hydraulic systems and other underwater ship repair, salvage or oil spill response equipment.


Project Planning & Execution

  • Contributes to feasibility studies and risk assessments for maritime projects.
  • Supports implementation of design concepts during the fabrication phase, providing technical support and addressing any design-related issues. 
  • Heavily supports procurement process and develops bill of materials, under close supervision.
  • Monitors progress on design and fabrication phases and reports on project key performance indicators.
  • Performs most assignments under close guidance and supervision. 
  • Maintains accurate and up-to-date project records, including design changes and deviations.

 

Quality Assurance and Documentation:

  • Basic ability to develop and review engineering documents, 3D models and simulations, calculations, technical manuals and drawings with subsequent document and planning generation. 
  • TEST: Experience in the analysis and evaluation of test requirements, development and implementation of test plans, and formulation of final test reports and recommendations for new or modified equipment in the area of marine engineering, especially load carrying devices, hydraulic systems and other underwater ship repair, salvage or oil spill response equipment.

 

Teamwork and Collaboration

  • Conveying engineer related technical details with clarity and precision to engineers and non-engineers alike.
  • Works closely with cross-functional teams and communicates effectively to convey engineering related technical details with clarity and precision to engineers and non-engineers alike.
  • Collaborates with other engineering disciplines, configuration management, engineering technicians, underwater maintenance crews, to understand and incorporate feedback into equipment design and improvement processes.
  • Collaborates with drafters and configuration management for proper design and maintenance documentation.
  • Interfaces with equipment lifecycle managers, clients, vendors, and stakeholders as needed. 
  • Conveying engineer related technical details with clarity and precision to engineers and non-engineers alike.


Minimum Qualifications and Skills:


  • Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Marine related Engineering
  • 2-4 Years’ experience in working in a mechanical or marine engineering role
  • Strong proficiency with 3D modeling software such as SolidEdge or Solidworks
  • Knowledge of marine engineering and structural analysis
  • Fundamentals of Engineering certificate desired


Veterans are encouraged to apply. We are a veteran friendly company!

Disability Accommodations/EEO Statement:

PCCI is committed to providing equal employment opportunity for all employees. All employment decisions are made based on business needs and individual qualifications without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, family medical history or genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital status, past or present military service, family or parental status, or any other status protected by law.

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