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Third Assistant Engineer Jobs in Bellingham, WA (NOW HIRING)

Planning Manager

Burlington, WA · On-site

$102K - $153K/yr

... engineered core and composite structures. We invite you to join the Hexcel team at various ... Implement corrective actions with affected functions. Assist Supply Chain leaders with developing ...

Planning Manager

Burlington, WA · On-site

$102K - $153K/yr

... engineered core and composite structures. We invite you to join the Hexcel team at various ... Implement corrective actions with affected functions. Assist Supply Chain leaders with developing ...

Third Assistant Engineer information

See Bellingham, WA salary details

$34.3K

$92.3K

$139.8K

How much do third assistant engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for third assistant engineer in Bellingham, WA is $92,251.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,300.00 and $108,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a third assistant engineer?

A Third Assistant Engineer (3AE) is an entry-level licensed officer in a ship's engineering department. They are responsible for monitoring and maintaining various mechanical and electrical systems, including the engine room, boilers, pumps, and generators. They assist senior engineers in troubleshooting technical issues and ensuring the vessel's machinery operates efficiently and safely. The 3AE typically stands watch, performing routine inspections and responding to any mechanical alarms or malfunctions. This role is essential to the overall operational efficiency of the ship and requires mechanical expertise, problem-solving skills, and adherence to safety protocols.

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

To thrive as a Third Assistant Engineer, a solid background in marine engineering, mechanical systems, and an appropriate engineering license (such as STCW or USCG endorsement) are essential. Familiarity with engine room equipment, shipboard safety systems, and maintenance management software is typically required. Exceptional teamwork, communication, and a strong attention to detail help candidates stand out in this supportive engineering position. These skills ensure the safe, efficient operation of vessel machinery and contribute to smooth onboard collaboration and regulatory compliance.

What are the typical career advancement opportunities for a third assistant engineer?

As a Third Assistant Engineer, your role forms the foundation for advancing to more senior engineering positions on board, such as Second Assistant Engineer, First Assistant Engineer, and eventually Chief Engineer. Demonstrating reliability, technical competence, and leadership in this entry-level licensed role can lead to promotions as you gain more sea time, experience, and additional certifications. Many employers also provide training and mentorship programs to help engineers develop their skills and progress within maritime engineering. Advancement often comes with greater responsibilities, higher pay, and the opportunity to oversee larger engineering teams and more complex systems.

What cities near Bellingham, WA are hiring for Third Assistant Engineer jobs?

Cities near Bellingham, WA with the most Third Assistant Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Third Assistant Engineer job openings in Bellingham, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $92,251 per year, or $44.4 per hour.

Stringer Operator (Pitman Night Shift)

Silfab Solar

Burlington, WA • On-site

$21 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Company Description

Making a difference in the world by reducing carbon emissions and improving access to clean energy with every module we make. 

Our purpose is to make a difference in the world by reducing carbon emissions and improving access to clean energy with every module we make.

At Silfab Solar, the energy of our people is the power behind our success. Our employees actively shape the solar innovations of tomorrow, while adhering to the highest ethical operating standards and promoting a respectful and safe workplace for our diverse workforce.

Our state-of-the art facilities in the US and Canada engineer and design the latest generation of solar products and utilize advanced manufacturing technology to produce  high-efficiency PV cells and modules intended to outperform the market. As a profitable and rapidly expanding company in one of the fastest-growing sectors in the renewable energy industry, Silfab provides you with an incredible opportunity to build your career and contribute to a sustainable future. We are committed to investing in our employees, providing a dynamic and supportive environment for learning and professional growth.  We offer competitive pay, generous benefits, and opportunities for advancement, but more importantly, we offer you the ability to make a real difference in the world.

Together we can create a brighter, cleaner future for generations to come.

Job Description

Summary of Position

The Stringer Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and precise operation of the Stringer machine. This role requires a combination of production expertise, technical understanding, and mechanical aptitude to ensure consistent product quality, maximum equipment uptime & FTT (first time through). The Stringer Operator will monitor Stringer performance, operate using HMIs, perform hands-on preventive and autonomous maintenance, and assist with troubleshooting and minor repairs under the guidance of maintenance and engineering teams. The schedule for this position is 12 hour rotating shifts from 6PM - 6AM. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Safely operate and monitor stringer machinery, ensuring proper function and throughput.

Load materials, visually inspecting solar cells and verifying product quality against established standards.

Operate and navigate HMI and NC equipment interfaces for machine control, diagnostics, and basic troubleshooting.

Perform hands-on preventive maintenance (PM) and autonomous maintenance tasks such as cleaning, lubrication, and inspection of key components.

Troubleshoot, communicate and help resolve basic machine faults issues to minimize downtime, escalate as needed

Record hourly production and performance data accurately and report deviations or abnormalities.

Collaborate with maintenance, engineering, and quality teams to implement process improvements and corrective actions.

Follow all established safety, quality, and operational procedures, maintaining a clean and organized work area.

Support training and onboarding of new operators on stringer operation and maintenance best practices.

Other duties as assigned by Lead Hand and Supervisor

Qualifications

Skills

Experience working with HMIs and operating numerical control (NC) or automated production equipment.

Strong understanding of preventive maintenance and basic mechanical/electrical troubleshooting.

Fine motor control and steady hand-eye coordination for handling delicate solar components.

Clear and effective communication skills for documenting and reporting equipment or process issues.

Traits

Critical thinker with the ability to identify root causes and propose practical solutions.

High attention to detail and commitment to producing quality work.

Team-oriented with a proactive approach to safety and continuous improvement.

Dependable, adaptable, and eager to develop advanced technical skills.

Education and/or Experience

High School Diploma or equivalent required; technical diploma or certificate preferred.

Minimum 2 years of production experience in an autonomous manufacturing environment.

Hands-on experience operating HMI-controlled equipment, NC machinery, and performing preventive/autonomous maintenance.

Familiarity with basic mechanical, pneumatic, or electrical systems preferred.

Additional Information

Compensation and Benefits

  • Wage: $21/hr - $24/hr
  • Paid Time Off (vacation, sick, and holiday)
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance Plans
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Tuition Reimbursement Program
  • Employee Recognition Programs
  • Employee PV Panel Purchase Program