1

Tankerman Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

1st AE w/ Tankerman PIC

Annapolis, MD

$79K - $106K/yr

1st Assistant Engineer w/ Tankerman PIC Job Summary Looking for a 1st Assistant Engineer for a hitch onboard a deepwater offshore drillship operating in the Gulf. This is a working engineering ...

1st AE w/ Tankerman PIC

Annapolis, MD

$79K - $106K/yr

1st Assistant Engineer w/ Tankerman PIC Job Summary Looking for a 1st Assistant Engineer for a hitch onboard a deepwater offshore drillship operating in the Gulf. This is a working engineering ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Tankerman information

See Washington, DC salary details

$15

$30

$44

How much do tankerman jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for tankerman in Washington, DC is $30.02, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $27.55 and $31.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a tankerman?

Tankermen are specialized maritime professionals responsible for the safe transfer of liquid cargo—such as oil, chemicals, or hazardous materials—on tank vessels like barges and ships. Their duties include operating pumps, supervising loading and unloading processes, ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations, and maintaining equipment. Tankermen must be highly trained and typically require certification, as their work is critical to preventing spills and accidents during cargo operations.

What does a tankerman do?

As a tankerman, your duties involve overseeing the transfer and transport of liquid cargo on a barge, ship, or specialized tankboat. The primary responsibilities of a tankerman (variously referred to as an able-bodied tankerman or AB tankerman) are to ensure the safety of crew during loading and transport of the liquid freight. You may work with hazardous materials such as gases and other potentially explosive or toxic substances. You are responsible for inspecting and maintaining liquid transfer equipment onboard and onshore.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a tankerman, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Tankerman, you need specialized knowledge in liquid cargo handling, safety protocols, and marine regulations, generally supported by a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with a Tankerman endorsement. Familiarity with cargo transfer systems, pumps, hoses, and relevant safety equipment is essential, along with compliance training such as HAZMAT and OSHA standards. Attention to detail, strong communication, and the ability to work under pressure are vital soft skills for this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial for safe, efficient cargo operations and to prevent environmental incidents or workplace accidents.

What are typical work schedules and living conditions like for a tankerman on inland or coastal vessels?

Tankermen often work in rotating shifts that can range from several days to weeks on board, followed by similar periods off. Living conditions on vessels are typically communal, with shared sleeping quarters and limited personal space, so adaptability and strong communication skills are important. The work can be physically demanding and requires adherence to strict safety and environmental protocols, but it also offers a structured routine and opportunities for advancement into supervisory or training roles. Teamwork is essential, as Tankermen collaborate closely with crew members and shore-based personnel during cargo operations.

What is the difference between Tankerman vs Deckhand?

AspectTankermanDeckhand
CertificationsSTCW Basic Safety Training, Tankerman CertificationSTCW Basic Safety Training, Basic Deckhand Certification
Work EnvironmentTank barges, tankers, chemical shipsGeneral cargo ships, tankers, offshore vessels
Job ResponsibilitiesHandling, transferring, and securing liquid cargoesGeneral deck duties, cargo handling, maintenance

Tankermen specialize in handling liquid cargoes and require specific certifications related to tank operations. Deckhands perform broader deck duties across various vessel types. While both roles work in maritime environments, Tankermen focus on cargo transfer safety and procedures, making their skills more specialized compared to Deckhands.

What qualifications do you need for a tankerman job?

Tankermen typically need a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with a Tankerman endorsement issued by the Coast Guard, along with relevant maritime experience and safety training. Basic safety certifications such as STCW and first aid are also required, and physical fitness is important due to the demanding environment.
Infographic showing various Tankerman job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,433 per year, or $30 per hour.

1st AE w/ Tankerman PIC

Annapolis, MD

Core Group Resources
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 51 - 200 employees

$79K - $106K/yr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

1st Assistant Engineer w/ Tankerman PIC
Job Summary

Looking for a 1st Assistant Engineer for a hitch onboard a deepwater offshore drillship operating in the Gulf.

This is a working engineering position supporting an active drilling operation. Previous drillship experience is required. We're looking for someone who can step onboard and stand watch with minimal handholding in a fast-paced engine room.

You'll be working around:
• Diesel-electric power generation systems
• Main generators and auxiliary engines
• Thrusters and DP support equipment
• Mud pumps, compressors, pumps, purifiers, and HVAC systems
• Fuel, lube oil, cooling water, ballast, and sewage treatment systems
• Planned Maintenance System (PMS) and engine room watchstanding

Responsibilities

  • Troubleshooting
  • Preventative maintenance
  • Equipment repairs
  • Log keeping
  • Supporting ongoing drilling operations alongside the engineering team.
Requirements
  • Up-to-date resume
  • USCG Medical Certificate
  • Tankerman PIC
  • TWIC
  • US Passport or government-issued ID
Pandologic. Keywords: Assistant Engineer, Location: Annapolis, MD - 21412 , PL: 604009987