1

Underwater Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Engineer II

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

Basic knowledge and application of prescribed methods of hands on or practical engineering in the field including exposure to marine rigging, vessel operations, underwater ship repair operations and ...

Engineer II

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

Basic knowledge and application of prescribed methods of hands on or practical engineering in the field including exposure to marine rigging, vessel operations, underwater ship repair operations and ...

Support naval architecture and marine engineering analyses for vessels, floating structures, offshore systems, mooring systems, underwater equipment, salvage operations, and marine construction ...

Support naval architecture and marine engineering analyses for vessels, floating structures, offshore systems, mooring systems, underwater equipment, salvage operations, and marine construction ...

You will provide recommendations for underwater signature requirements, characterizations ... Successful completion of a professional engineering degree. To be acceptable, the program must: (1) ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Underwater Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$19K

$92K

$179.4K

How much do underwater engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for underwater engineer in Virginia is $92,030.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,222.00 and $125,942.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an underwater engineer?

An Underwater Engineer designs, builds, and maintains structures and systems in underwater environments. They work on projects such as offshore oil rigs, underwater pipelines, subsea telecommunications, and marine infrastructure. Their duties often involve diving to inspect equipment, using remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), and applying specialized engineering principles to ensure structures withstand underwater conditions. These engineers typically have a background in civil, mechanical, or marine engineering and may require diving certifications for hands-on tasks.

What are some typical work environments and team structures for underwater engineers?

Underwater Engineers commonly work in dynamic settings that include offshore platforms, underwater construction sites, and shipyards, often splitting time between fieldwork and office-based project planning. Teams are typically multidisciplinary, collaborating with marine biologists, construction specialists, safety officers, and vessel crews to ensure project goals are met safely and efficiently. Daily responsibilities may involve underwater inspections, equipment setup and maintenance, and real-time troubleshooting, both above and below the water. The collaborative and technical nature of the work fosters strong teamwork and clear communication, making adaptability and a proactive attitude valuable in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an underwater engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Underwater Engineer, you need a strong background in engineering disciplines (such as civil, mechanical, or marine engineering), along with specialized knowledge in underwater construction and repair, often supported by a relevant engineering degree and commercial diver certification. Familiarity with tools like remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), underwater welding equipment, and sonar imaging systems is crucial for handling technical underwater tasks safely and efficiently. Excellent problem-solving skills, teamwork, and effective communication are important soft skills, as projects often involve coordinating with multidisciplinary teams in challenging environments. These abilities ensure the safety, success, and reliability of complex underwater projects in areas such as offshore construction, inspection, and maintenance.

How much do underwater engineers make?

Underwater engineers typically earn between $60,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and the complexity of projects. Senior roles or specialized skills in diving, robotics, or subsea systems can lead to higher salaries.
Infographic showing various Underwater Engineer job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,030 per year, or $44.2 per hour.

Engineer II

PCCI

Alexandria, VA • On-site

$85K - $95K/yr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description


Engineer II Job Description

Location: Williamsburg, VA

Schedule: Day, 40 hours/week

Reports to: Lead Engineer

Pay range: $85,000-$95,000

Benefits: Competitive benefits and paid leave.

 

Job Summary:

We are seeking a skilled Engineer II with approximately two to four years of hands-on experience in mechanical/marine engineering, specializing in the design, maintenance, and operational support of load-carrying devices, hydraulic systems, and underwater ship repair, salvage, or oil spill response equipment. In this role, you will apply your technical expertise to ensure the reliability, safety, and efficiency of critical marine systems used in challenging environments. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams to troubleshoot complex mechanical and hydraulic issues, contribute to equipment upgrades, and support field operations in time-sensitive situations. Your work will directly impact mission readiness, environmental protection, and the success of high-stakes marine operations.

 

Key Responsibilities: 

Design and Analysis

  • Basic knowledge and application of standard techniques and methods in marine related engineering, design and development of new equipment and systems.
  • Basic knowledge and application of prescribed methods of hands on or practical engineering in the field including exposure to marine rigging, vessel operations, underwater ship repair operations and related disciplines is desirable.
  • Basic familiarity with equipment maintenance procedures, cost estimating, modification of existing equipment and configuration management procedures.
  • Takes on projects of higher complexity involving greater degrees of innovative problem solving and non-standard techniques for professional development.
  • Developing and reviewing engineering documents, 3D models and simulations, calculations, technical manuals and drawings with subsequent document and planning generation.
  • STRUCTURAL: Experience in structural analysis and evaluation of designs to meet required specifications, development and implementation of structural engineering drawings in the area of marine engineering, especially load bearing structures and hydraulic systems.
  • STRUCTURAL: Demonstrated experience and ability to interface with fabrication, machine shop, and welding personnel to provide technical support and direction for build and assembly of new equipment. 
  • STRUCTURAL: Demonstrated ability to manage and execute drawing revisions to correct deficiencies and develop revised equipment operation procedures and maintenance requirements in order to ensure structural integrity and safety of personnel.
  • TEST: Experience in the analysis and evaluation of test requirements, development and implementation of test plans, and formulation of final test reports and recommendations for new or modified equipment in the area of marine engineering, especially load carrying devices, hydraulic systems and other underwater ship repair, salvage or oil spill response equipment.


Project Planning & Execution

  • Contributes to feasibility studies and risk assessments for maritime projects.
  • Supports implementation of design concepts during the fabrication phase, providing technical support and addressing any design-related issues. 
  • Heavily supports procurement process and develops bill of materials, under close supervision.
  • Monitors progress on design and fabrication phases and reports on project key performance indicators.
  • Performs most assignments under close guidance and supervision. 
  • Maintains accurate and up-to-date project records, including design changes and deviations.

 

Quality Assurance and Documentation:

  • Basic ability to develop and review engineering documents, 3D models and simulations, calculations, technical manuals and drawings with subsequent document and planning generation. 
  • TEST: Experience in the analysis and evaluation of test requirements, development and implementation of test plans, and formulation of final test reports and recommendations for new or modified equipment in the area of marine engineering, especially load carrying devices, hydraulic systems and other underwater ship repair, salvage or oil spill response equipment.

 

Teamwork and Collaboration

  • Conveying engineer related technical details with clarity and precision to engineers and non-engineers alike.
  • Works closely with cross-functional teams and communicates effectively to convey engineering related technical details with clarity and precision to engineers and non-engineers alike.
  • Collaborates with other engineering disciplines, configuration management, engineering technicians, underwater maintenance crews, to understand and incorporate feedback into equipment design and improvement processes.
  • Collaborates with drafters and configuration management for proper design and maintenance documentation.
  • Interfaces with equipment lifecycle managers, clients, vendors, and stakeholders as needed. 
  • Conveying engineer related technical details with clarity and precision to engineers and non-engineers alike.


Minimum Qualifications and Skills:


  • Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Marine related Engineering
  • 2-4 Years’ experience in working in a mechanical or marine engineering role
  • Strong proficiency with 3D modeling software such as SolidEdge or Solidworks
  • Knowledge of marine engineering and structural analysis
  • Fundamentals of Engineering certificate desired


Veterans are encouraged to apply. We are a veteran friendly company!

Disability Accommodations/EEO Statement:

PCCI is committed to providing equal employment opportunity for all employees. All employment decisions are made based on business needs and individual qualifications without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, family medical history or genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital status, past or present military service, family or parental status, or any other status protected by law.