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Third Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Core Group Resources

3rd Assistant Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

3rd Assistant Engineer Job Summary We are seeking a 3rd Assistant Engineer for a hitch onboard a deepwater offshore drillship operating in the Gulf. This is not an entry-level offshore engineering ...

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Amentum

Engineer-Third Class

Washington, DC · On-site

The Engineer - 3rd Class must possess strong troubleshooting skills, extensive knowledge of safety regulations, and the ability to work independently while supporting and guiding junior engineering ...

Pae

Engineer-Third Class

Washington, DC · On-site

The Engineer - 3rd Class must possess strong troubleshooting skills, extensive knowledge of safety regulations, and the ability to work independently while supporting and guiding junior engineering ...

Complete Building Services

Engineer DC 3rd

Washington, DC · On-site

$52.66/hr

About the Role The DC 3rd Class Engineer will have comprehensive knowledge of MEP systems and mission critical operating characteristics to support full building operations. On each shift, Engineers ...

Fifth Third

Principal Software Engineer

Cincinnati, OH

$129K - $173K/yr

Make banking a Fifth Third better We connect great people to great opportunities. Are you ready to ... Act as a technical expert and software developer on an agile squad * Drive the architecture of ...

Fifth Third

Principal Software Engineer

Cincinnati, OH

$129K - $173K/yr

Make banking a Fifth Third better We connect great people to great opportunities. Are you ready to ... Act as a technical expert and developer on an agile squad * Drive the architecture of solutions ...

Whoi

Third Assistant Engineer

Iselin, NJ · On-site

$39.38/hr

Job Summary Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution is currently searching for a Third Assistant Engineer with electrical skills. This position begins 5/30/2026. Reporting to Chief Engineer; is ...

Fifth Third Bank

Lead AI Platform Engineer

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$100K - $131K/yr

Make banking a Fifth Third better ® We connect great people to great opportunities. Are you ready ... We need a hands-on engineering resource to design, build, and operate AI-enabled and automation ...

Third Iron

Senior Quality Engineer

Minneapolis, MN · Remote

$90K - $122K/yr

Third Iron's industry-leading software services BrowZine and LibKey are used by millions of ... Your RoleAs a Senior Quality Engineer, you will help lead our Quality Assurance approach, defining ...

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All JobsThird Engineer Jobs

Third Engineer information

See salary details

$39K

$101.8K

$137.5K

How much do third engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for third engineer in the United States is $101,752.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $84,000.00 and $116,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Third Engineers working on commercial vessels?

Third Engineers often manage the operation and maintenance of a ship’s machinery under the guidance of senior engineers. Common challenges in this role include troubleshooting unexpected mechanical failures, adapting to rapidly changing weather or sea conditions, and ensuring compliance with strict safety and environmental regulations. Additionally, Third Engineers must effectively coordinate with multinational crews and work in shifts, which can demand flexibility and strong communication skills. Overcoming these challenges helps build valuable experience for advancement to higher engineering positions.

What are Third Engineers?

A Third Engineer, also known as a Third Assistant Engineer, is a licensed member of the engineering department on a merchant ship. They are responsible for operating and maintaining machinery in the engine room, including boilers, generators, and pumps. Third Engineers typically report to the Second Engineer and assist in routine maintenance, troubleshooting, and emergency repairs to ensure the vessel operates safely and efficiently. They also keep records of engine performance and fuel consumption as part of their daily duties.

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

To thrive as a Third Engineer, you need a solid grounding in marine engineering principles, a relevant engineering degree, and a valid Certificate of Competency. Familiarity with shipboard machinery, maintenance management systems, and safety protocols, as well as proficiency in using diagnostic and monitoring tools, is crucial. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication help you respond quickly to technical issues and coordinate with the ship's crew. These skills ensure the vessel operates safely and efficiently, minimizing downtime and supporting overall maritime operations.

What is the difference between Third Engineer vs Second Engineer?

AspectThird EngineerSecond Engineer
Required CertificationsSTCW Basic Safety, Engine Room CertificationsSTCW Basic Safety, Engine Room Certifications, Additional Endorsements
Work EnvironmentEngine room, ship maintenance, safety proceduresEngine room, more complex machinery, supervisory tasks
Employer & Industry UsageMaritime shipping, cargo ships, cruise shipsMaritime shipping, cargo ships, cruise ships

The Third Engineer and Second Engineer roles are both vital engine department positions on ships. The Third Engineer typically handles routine maintenance and watchkeeping, while the Second Engineer has more responsibilities, including supervising engine room operations and assisting the Chief Engineer. Both roles require similar certifications, but the Second Engineer's duties are more advanced, reflecting experience and additional qualifications.

More about Third Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Third Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Third Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Third Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Third Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Third Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Third Engineer jobs are:
Third Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Third Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,752 per year, or $48.9 per hour.
3rd Assistant Engineer

3rd Assistant Engineer

Core Group Resources

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

3rd Assistant EngineerJob Summary

We are seeking a 3rd Assistant Engineer for a hitch onboard a deepwater offshore drillship operating in the Gulf. This is not an entry-level offshore engineering position—you must have previous drillship experience and be ready to step onboard and stand watch with minimal handholding in a fast-paced drilling environment.

You will support ongoing drilling operations alongside the engineering team while working around diesel-electric power generation systems, medium-speed generators and auxiliary machinery, thrusters and DP support equipment, mud pumps and compressors, and multiple onboard support systems.

Responsibilities
  • Engine room watchstanding and engine room watchkeeping duties
  • Preventative maintenance and participation in PMS-driven maintenance programs
  • Troubleshooting equipment failures and supporting repairs
  • Conduct machinery inspections
  • Maintain log keeping and required documentation
  • Support ongoing drilling operations alongside the engineering team
  • Work with and maintain systems including:
    • Diesel-electric power generation systems
    • Medium-speed generators and auxiliary machinery
    • Thrusters and DP support equipment
    • Mud pumps, compressors, pumps, purifiers, and HVAC systems
    • Fuel, lube oil, cooling water, and sewage treatment systems
Requirements
  • Up-to-date resume
  • USCG MMC
  • STCW Compliant USCG Medical Certificate
  • Foreign Flag License
  • BOSIET / FOET / THUET
  • RigPass or SafeGulf
  • TWIC
  • US Passport or government-issued ID
Pandologic. Keywords: Assistant Engineer, Location: Houston, TX - 77007 , PL: 603724321