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Second Assistant Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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- Electrical Assembler (2nd Shift) Job Title: Electrical Assembler (2nd Shift) Location: Colonial ... Use hand tools, power tools, and basic electrical test equipment. Assist engineering with new ...

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 ...

The Network Engineer must have the ability to: • Assist various departments to maintain network ... Clearance Preference: • CBP Full BI - 1st priority • Any DHS badge + DoD Top Secret - 2nd ...

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Second Assistant Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$32.7K

$88K

$133.3K

How much do second assistant engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for second assistant engineer in Virginia is $87,993.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,900.00 and $103,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Second Assistant Engineer on a vessel?

As a Second Assistant Engineer, your daily duties generally include monitoring and maintaining main and auxiliary engines, conducting routine inspections, assisting with repairs, and ensuring all engine room equipment runs efficiently. You'll often be responsible for record keeping, supervising oilers or trainees, and responding quickly to technical problems or emergencies. The role involves both scheduled maintenance tasks and troubleshooting unexpected issues, all while closely coordinating with the Chief and First Assistant Engineers. This position offers valuable hands-on experience and the opportunity to learn advanced systems, providing a strong foundation for further advancement within the engineering department.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Second Assistant Engineer position, and why are they important?

A Second Assistant Engineer typically needs a degree or relevant certification in marine engineering, strong mechanical and technical aptitude, and hands-on experience with shipboard engineering systems. Familiarity with critical tools like engine room monitoring systems, maintenance software, and certifications such as Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) are often required. Strong teamwork, problem-solving, and effective communication skills are essential for coordinating with other crew members and responding to emergencies. These competencies are vital for maintaining safe and efficient vessel operations and ensuring compliance with maritime regulations.

What is a Second Assistant Engineer job?

A Second Assistant Engineer is a licensed officer in the engine department of a vessel, responsible for overseeing daily maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of mechanical and electrical systems. They assist the First Assistant Engineer and Chief Engineer in ensuring the proper operation of engines, boilers, and auxiliary equipment. Their duties often include monitoring fuel consumption, supervising engine room personnel, and maintaining safety standards. This role requires strong technical knowledge, problem-solving skills, and compliance with maritime regulations.

What are popular job titles related to Second Assistant Engineer jobs in Virginia? For Second Assistant Engineer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Second Assistant Engineer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Second Assistant Engineer jobs in Virginia are:
Infographic showing various Second Assistant Engineer job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $87,993 per year, or $42.3 per hour.

$90K - $100K/yr

Other

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Description

Salary: $90,000 - $100,000 per year 


Background check, US Citizenship, confidential clearance, and a CAC are requirements of this position. Travel is 40%.


We are seeking a Marine Engineer with licensed sailing experience to support Military Sealift Command (MSC) through execution of Ship Material Assessment and Readiness Testing (SMART) inspections. 

Requirements

Conduct SMART inspections and other ship checks, inspections, or surveys onboard MSC vessels to assess HM&E system readiness and mission capability

Evaluate marine engineering systems, including: 

o Propulsion shafting, reduction gears, and bearings

o Generators

o Auxiliary systems such as HVAC, compressed air, fuel, lube oil, cooling water, distilling plants, refrigeration, hydraulics

o Diesel, gas turbine, and steam propulsion systems

Assess compliance with regulations and standards (ABS, USCG, Naval, MSC, SOLAS)

Develop, modify and deliver SMART Inspection Test Memos for MSC GOGO/GOCO fleet to assess equipment for proper operation within recommended parameters and regulations

Ability to work in a team oriented environment while interfacing with stakeholders to ensure necessary commitments and deliverables are met

Must be willing to travel to CONUS and OCONUS locations

Preferred Qualifications

4-6 years of licensed sailing experience as an engineering officer

Prior experience supporting MSC, NAVSEA, or DoD maritime programs

Experience supporting regulatory inspections and audits, including ABS class surveys, USCG inspections and COI, and ISM internal/external audits

Familiar with development of work items, drawings, cost estimates, and technical reports for ship modernization and life cycle management

Prior SMART inspection or similar readiness assessment experience

Strong technical writing and reporting background


Physical Job Requirements 

Climb tall ladders

Maneuver in tight/confined spaces, steel decks, uneven surfaces

Work in adverse environments for long periods.

Exposure to high noise environments (with hearing protection)

Periodically lift up to 50 pounds

Ability to observe details at close range

Able to walk to/from and navigate job sites.


Education/Certification Requirements

Bachelor's Degree in Marine Engineering or related discipline

USCG Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC), with the following rating and endorsements: minimum of 2nd Assistant Engineer (steam, motor or gas turbine) of unlimited horsepower (1st Assistant Engineer highly desirable).