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Standby Vessel Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Astrion

Chief Engineer

San Diego, CA

$65/hr

Remains on standby/recall status to the vessel during dockside periods, as needed. * Participates in the vessels off site OCCM (On‐Condition Cyclic Maintenance) Dry‐docking on a three-year basis

Resolve Marine

Diver

Dutch Harbor, AK

Underwater inspection to ascertain, quantify, document and report the condition of the vessel ... Carry out standby duties * Other duties as assigned

Astrion

Chief Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$65/hr

Remains on standby/recall status to the vessel during dockside periods, as needed. * Participates in the vessels off site OCCM (On-Condition Cyclic Maintenance) Dry-docking on a three-year basis

Astrion

Chief Engineer-San Diego,California

Bonita, CA · On-site

$65/hr

Remains on standby/recall status to the vessel during dockside periods, as needed. * Participates in the vessels off site OCCM (On-Condition Cyclic Maintenance) Dry-docking on a three-year basis

Astrion

$65/hr

Remains on standby/recall status to the vessel during dockside periods, as needed. * Participates in the vessels off site OCCM (On‐Condition Cyclic Maintenance) Dry‐docking on a three-year basis

Valaris

Radio Operator

Houston, TX

... vessel. Keeps records of telephone charges if possible. * Ensures the maintenance of all electronic navigational aids where applicable. * Tests the standby radio equipment and the radio equipment in ...

Valaris

Radio Operator

Houston, TX · On-site

... vessel. Keeps records of telephone charges if possible. * Ensures the maintenance of all electronic navigational aids where applicable. * Tests the standby radio equipment and the radio equipment in ...

Dann Marine Towing

Licensed Engineer

Chesapeake City, MD · On-site

... vessel operations. Operational Support * Maintain continuous oversight of propulsion and power systems during towing, docking, maneuvering, and standby operations. * Coordinate with the captain and ...

Dann Marine Towing

Licensed Engineer

... vessel operations. Operational Support * Maintain continuous oversight of propulsion and power systems during towing, docking, maneuvering, and standby operations. * Coordinate with the captain and ...

Resolve Marine

Diver

Tacoma, WA

Underwater inspection to ascertain, quantify, document and report the condition of the vessel ... Carry out standby duties * Other duties as assigned

Resolve Marine

Diver

Theodore, AL

Underwater inspection to ascertain, quantify, document and report the condition of the vessel ... Carry out standby duties * Other duties as assigned

International SOS

Offshore Paramedic

Port Arthur, TX

The Package Join a company dedicated to protecting workers and providing emergency standby care in ... Serve as the lead provider of emergency and primary health care for vessel employees, visitors, and ...

International SOS

Offshore Paramedic

Lumberton, TX

The Package Join a company dedicated to protecting workers and providing emergency standby care in ... Serve as the lead provider of emergency and primary health care for vessel employees, visitors, and ...

International SOS

Offshore Paramedic

Beaumont, TX · On-site

The Package Join a company dedicated to protecting workers and providing emergency standby care in ... Serve as the lead provider of emergency and primary health care for vessel employees, visitors, and ...

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Standby Vessel information

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How much do standby vessel jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for standby vessel in the United States is $35.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.95 and $30.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Standby Vessel Crew Member, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Standby Vessel Crew Member, you need maritime certifications (such as STCW), strong knowledge of safety procedures, and experience in emergency response operations. Familiarity with navigation systems, radio communication equipment, and rescue tools is typically required. Excellent teamwork, alertness, and clear communication are vital soft skills for coordinating under pressure. These skills and qualities ensure the safety and effective emergency response for offshore personnel and assets.

What are the main challenges faced by crew members working on a standby vessel, and how can they best prepare for them?

Crew members on standby vessels often face the challenge of long periods of routine monitoring punctuated by sudden emergencies, such as offshore evacuations or rescue operations. The unpredictable nature of these incidents requires maintaining a high level of readiness through regular drills, equipment checks, and ongoing training. Additionally, living and working in close quarters for extended periods demands strong teamwork and communication skills to foster a positive onboard environment. Preparing for these challenges involves staying physically fit, mentally alert, and up-to-date with safety protocols.

What is the difference between Standby Vessel vs Crew Boat?

AspectStandby VesselCrew Boat
Primary FunctionProvides emergency support, safety, and standby services during offshore operationsTransports crew and personnel to and from offshore platforms or vessels
CertificationsRequired safety and operational certifications, including SOLAS and STCWSimilar certifications, focusing on passenger safety and crew transfer
Work EnvironmentOffshore, often in harsh weather conditionsNearshore or offshore, primarily in calm waters for personnel transfer
Usage in IndustryUsed as safety backup and support during offshore activitiesUsed for crew transfer and logistical support

While both vessels operate offshore and require similar certifications, a standby vessel primarily offers emergency support and safety services, whereas a crew boat focuses on transporting personnel. Understanding these differences helps in selecting the right vessel for specific offshore needs.

What are standby vessels and what do they do?

Standby vessels are specialized ships primarily used in the offshore oil and gas industry to provide emergency response and safety support for offshore installations. Their main responsibilities include rescuing personnel in case of emergencies, monitoring safety zones, and assisting in evacuation procedures. These vessels are equipped with rescue boats, medical facilities, and communication equipment to handle emergencies such as fires, explosions, or man overboard incidents. Standby vessels play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and well-being of workers on offshore platforms.
More about Standby Vessel jobs
What states have the most Standby Vessel jobs? States with the most job openings for Standby Vessel jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Standby Vessel jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Standby Vessel jobs are:
Standby Vessel jobs near you
Infographic showing various Standby Vessel job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 40% Part Time, and 20% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $73,193 per year, or $35.2 per hour.

Chief Engineer

Astrion

San Diego, CA

$65/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

Overview

Chief Engineer (Permanent Party)

LOCATION: San Diego, CA

JOB STATUS: Full Time PCS to Kwajalein (permanent change of station)

CLEARANCE: background check/CAC card

CERTIFICATION: USCG

TRAVEL: 100%

COMPENSATION: Max $65/hr

Astrion has an exciting opportunity for a Chief Engineer to work full time aboard USAV Worthy.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS / SKILLS

Education:

  • Must have a High School diploma or equivalent.
  • Graduate of a state or federal Maritime Academy, or U.S. Naval or Coast Guard Academy, as a Marine Engineer, or U.S. Naval schools or equivalent in Propulsion; Machinist Mate; Engineman; Damage Control; Air Conditioning and Refrigeration; etc.
    • A total of five (5) years of experience as a licensed Chief Engineer aboard comparable or larger vessels may be substituted for the formal education requirement.

Experience:

  • A total of five (5) years of experience as a licensed Chief Engineer aboard comparable or larger vessels

Certifications:

  • US Coast Guard license as Chief Engineer of inspected motor vessels operating on oceans, on vessels powered by not less than 2500 HP. USCG Chief Engineer of Steam / Motor / Gas Turbine, STCW International license and accompanying endorsements.
  • Ability to pass a federal background check to obtain and hold a DoD Common Access Card (CAC). Current U.S. Citizenship Required
  • Ability to pass a post offer drug screen and physical/medical clearance.
  • Current and Valid U.S. Passport*.

*(Passport, MMC/MMD, and med cert must have minimum of 6 months of validity prior to placement, or proof of renewal in progress.)

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS / SKILLS

  • Experience or background in government/public vessel operations.
  • Experience with vessels in a reduced operating status (ROS).
  • Background in supporting US Army requirements as it pertains to ocean going vessels.
  • Experience with diesel electric propulsion systems.
  • Knowledge of common safety practices and protective equipment used on an ocean-going vessel.
  • Self-starter, team player and conscientious worker.

RESPONSIBILITIES

The Chief Engineer on the vessel and must work closely with the vessel Master, Chief Mate, and other personnel involved with vessel operations including RGNEXT range safety personnel and embarked personnel. The USAV Worthy is a 200 ft long, 1,483 ton, special purpose vessel with a diesel electric propulsion system and a bow thruster. She typically carries a crew of 13 and up to 20 embarked mission personnel. Operates and maintains the assigned vessel’s propulsion and auxiliary engineering systems.

  • Work with the vessel Master and the Chief Mate in executing the USAV Worthy maintenance program. Oversee the maintenance and upkeep of the vessel’s systems in accordance with applicable standards and regulations.
  • Determine, source, and order parts, supplies, and material requirements for job accomplishment.
  • Accurately inputs O&M data, as well as projects long range maintenance issues.
  • Ensures the vessel maintains ABS Load‐line and U.S. Army standards.
  • Remains on standby/recall status to the vessel during dockside periods, as needed.
  • Participates in the vessels off site OCCM (On‐Condition Cyclic Maintenance) Dry‐docking on a three-year basis
  • Supervises engineering team including permanent crew and surge crew. Aids in training and development of crew members.
  • Reports to the Master and the RGNEXT Technical lead for Range and Mission Safety.
  • Coordinates with mission staff (supernumeraries) and other personnel on Kwajalein for logistics, provisioning, re-stocking, and requesting maintenance activities for the vessel.
  • Ensures the vessel maintains ABS Load‐line and U.S. Army standards.
  • Ensure logbooks and records are maintained and accurately completed.
  • Complies with and enforces safety regulations, guidelines, policies and procedures both within the Astrion polices and the relevant and applicable RGNEXT OSHE policies: including but not limited to RGNEXT OSHE hearing conservation and respiratory protection programs.
  • Ensures the vessel is operated and navigated in accordance with applicable US laws/regulations and host nation laws/regulations.
  • Perform Fire and Emergency duties associated with the Chief Engineer’s billet on Ship’s Station Bill.

#CJ