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Vessel Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Goodwin Marine Services

Vessel Engineer

Hull, MA · On-site

Flexible schedule Seeking a qualified Engineer to perform maintenance and repair of the vessel's mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic systems. The role involves ensuring equipment readiness for ...

Ingram Barge Company

Vessel Engineer

Paducah, KY · On-site

Ensuring vessel operation through regular maintenance of vessel systems * Supervision of JR. Engineers and Deckhands to assist with engine room activities * Performing other related duties as ...

Ingram Barge Company

Vessel Engineer

Paducah, KY

Ensuring vessel operation through regular maintenance of vessel systems * Supervision of JR. Engineers and Deckhands to assist with engine room activities * Performing other related duties as ...

Ingram Barge Company

Vessel Engineer

Paducah, KY · On-site

Ensuring vessel operation through regular maintenance of vessel systems * Supervision of JR. Engineers and Deckhands to assist with engine room activities * Performing other related duties as ...

Easternshipbuilding

Vessel Engineer

Panama City, FL · On-site

High school diploma or GED equivalence plus three or more years of experience as a Maritime Vessel Chief Engineer, Merchant Mariner Credentials Behavioral Attributes : Integrity, ethics, flexibility ...

Easternshipbuilding

Vessel Engineer

Port Saint Joe, FL · On-site

High school diploma or GED equivalence plus three or more years of experience as a Maritime Vessel Chief Engineer, Merchant Mariner Credentials Behavioral Attributes : Integrity, ethics, flexibility ...

GEOxyz Belgium

WI · On-site

$125K/yr

# Unmanned Surface Vessel Engineer## in OostendeGEOxyz is a leading **maritime data company**, specialized in hydrographic, geophysical, geotechnical and topographic surveys; marine site investigations ...

Olsson

Tank & Vessel Associate Engineer

Omaha, NE · On-site

As a Tank & Vessel Engineer, you will analyze, engineer, and design aboveground storage tanks, pressure vessels, process tanks, bins, silos, and related industrial structures. You will work with ...

Olsson

Tank & Vessel Associate Engineer

Lincoln, NE · On-site

As a Tank & Vessel Engineer, you will analyze, engineer, and design aboveground storage tanks, pressure vessels, process tanks, bins, silos, and related industrial structures. You will work with ...

Vitus Energy, LLC

Port Engineer

Anchorage, AK · On-site

The Port Engineer provides safety leadership as well and encourages both facility and vessel and crew compliance with company policy and procedures. This position organizes, coordinates and carries ...

Vitus Energy LLC

Port Engineer

Anchorage, AK · On-site

The Port Engineer provides safety leadership as well and encourages both facility and vessel and crew compliance with company policy and procedures. This position organizes, coordinates and carries ...

matson

Vessel Engineering Manager

Oakland, CA · On-site

$132K - $190K/yr

Verify vessel schedule integrity by monitoring daily performance and identifying potential ... Approve Port Engineer maintenance plans to align with fleet objectives and regulatory standards.

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Vessel Engineer information

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$59.5K

$111.6K

$203K

How much do vessel engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for vessel engineer in the United States is $111,632.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,500.00 and $132,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a vessel engineer?

Vessel engineers are professionals responsible for maintaining and operating the mechanical and electrical systems on ships, boats, and other marine vessels. They ensure that engines, pumps, power generation systems, and other equipment function safely and efficiently during voyages. Vessel engineers troubleshoot issues, perform routine maintenance, and comply with maritime regulations to keep vessels seaworthy. Their role is critical to the smooth operation and safety of marine transportation.

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

To thrive as a Vessel Engineer, you need a strong background in marine engineering, mechanical systems, and regulatory compliance, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree and maritime certifications such as a STCW Engineer Officer license. Familiarity with engine room management systems, diagnostic software, and maintenance tools is essential. Problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication are critical soft skills for ensuring smooth operations and rapid response to technical issues. These skills and qualifications are crucial for maintaining vessel safety, minimizing downtime, and ensuring compliance with maritime regulations.

What are some typical challenges a vessel engineer might face while working at sea, and how are they addressed?

Vessel Engineers often encounter challenges such as unexpected mechanical failures, harsh weather conditions, and maintaining complex systems with limited resources while at sea. To address these, engineers rely on thorough preventative maintenance, effective troubleshooting skills, and strong teamwork with other crew members. Regular drills and ongoing training help ensure readiness for emergencies, while clear communication with the bridge and shore-based technical support can provide additional guidance when needed.

What is the difference between Vessel Engineer vs Marine Engineer?

AspectVessel EngineerMarine Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, certifications in marine systemsEngineering degree, marine certifications
Work EnvironmentOnboard ships, shipyardsOn ships, maritime facilities
Industry UsageShip management companies, shipping linesShipbuilding, repair, maritime operations
Job FocusMaintaining vessel systems, ensuring operational safetyDesign, repair, and maintenance of marine engines and systems

Vessel Engineers primarily focus on maintaining and operating vessel systems onboard ships, ensuring safety and efficiency. Marine Engineers often work in shipbuilding or repair facilities, focusing on designing and repairing marine engines and systems. While both roles require similar credentials and work in maritime environments, Vessel Engineers are more involved in onboard operations, whereas Marine Engineers may work more in workshops or design settings.

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Vessel Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Vessel Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 92% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $111,632 per year, or $53.7 per hour.

Vessel Engineer

Hull, MA • On-site

Goodwin Marine Services
See more jobs at Goodwin Marine Servicesexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • Competitive salary
  • Flexible schedule

Seeking a qualified Engineer to perform maintenance and repair of the vessel's mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic systems. The role involves ensuring equipment readiness for vessel operations, performing preventive maintenance, troubleshooting issues, and operating hydraulic equipment such as winches and deck cranes and rigging. The position requires strong technical expertise, critical thinking, and maritime experience. The Engineer will collaborate closely with the captain and crew, manage inventory, conduct safety inspections, and maintain detailed operational logs, effectively balancing ship operations with the specific demands of maritime work.
 
Key Responsibilities
  • Maintenance and Repair: Perform comprehensive upkeep on main engines, generators, pumps, electrical, and hydraulic systems, etc. 

Troubleshooting: Diagnose and fix mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical issues 
Operations: Operate and maintain engine room and deck equipment, maintaining a clean and efficient work environment, keeping daily logs, reporting issues to the captain.
Safety & Compliance: Implement fire prevention, maintain emergency equipment following GMS Vessel Maintenance Procedures, and ensure adherence to maritime life saving equipment regulations (USCG).
Inventory: Manage spare parts, supplies, and order minor equipment.
Documentation: Maintain engineering logs and prepare reports. 
Required Skills & Qualifications
Education: High School
Experience: Minimum 3 years experience with marine diesel engines, electrical/hydraulic systems, and vessel maintenance.
  • Certifications: TWIC, STCW

Personal Skills: Critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, detail-orientation, and teamwork. 
Work Environment
  • Extended periods at sea; willingness to work in a shipboard environment.
  • Work with vessel crew, and assist 3rd party marine technicians when needed
  • Reports to the Captain for ship operations
  • Provide assistance with customers as needed.