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Vessel Engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

matson

Vessel Engineering Manager

Tacoma, WA · 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.

Stabbert Maritime

Vessel Manager

Seattle, WA

Build and maintain strong working relationships with vessel Captains, Chief Engineers, and crew, ensuring safe and efficient vessel operations. * Coordinate closely with internal support teams ...

Stabbert Maritime

Vessel Manager

Seattle, WA · On-site

Build and maintain strong working relationships with vessel Captains, Chief Engineers, and crew, ensuring safe and efficient vessel operations. * Coordinate closely with internal support teams ...

Stabbert Maritime

Assistant Port Engineer

Seattle, WA

$110K - $135K/yr

The Assistant Port Engineer works closely with Port Engineers, Vessel Managers, Chief Engineers, contractors, shipyards, and vendors to support day-to-day technical needs, planned maintenance ...

Stabbert Maritime

Assistant Port Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

The Assistant Port Engineer works closely with Port Engineers, Vessel Managers, Chief Engineers, contractors, shipyards, and vendors to support day-to-day technical needs, planned maintenance ...

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Vessel Engineer information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$67.7K

$127K

$231K

How much do vessel engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for vessel engineer in Seattle, WA is $127,038.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,600.00 and $150,800.00 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 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.

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 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 popular job titles related to Vessel Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA?

For Vessel Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Vessel Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Vessel Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA are:

Vessel Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Vessel Engineer job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $127,038 per year, or $61.1 per hour.

Vessel Engineering Manager

matson

Tacoma, WA • On-site

$132K - $190K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago

Matson rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Description
Position at Matson Navigation Company, Inc
About Us
Matson has been the leading ocean shipping and logistics provider throughout the Pacific since 1882. We are the supply chain lifeline for Hawaii, Alaska, Guam, and islands of the South Pacific. We also offer the top two ocean shipping services in the world's largest trade lane - Asia to the U.S. West Coast. With our subsidiaries Matson Terminals and Matson Logistics, our business focus is exceeding customer expectations with quality, reliability, and integrity.
We strive to operate in an environmentally sustainable manner and promote land-based environmental programs in Hawaii, Guam, and Alaska. We help improve the communities in which we work and live through our community giving program that annually supports hundreds of local organizations.
Matson is honored to be certified as a Great Place to Work. Our team of dedicated and talented employees consistently deliver exceptional results for our customers and the communities in which we serve.
Learn more at matson.com.
About the Role
The Vessel Engineering Manager provides strategic leadership to the engineering team, ensuring vessel schedule integrity, regulatory compliance, and cost effective maintenance operations.
What you'll do:
The position reports to the Director of Engineering. The position is responsible for the management and oversight of all aspects of vessel maintenance and repair (M&R) of the vessels, including safety, financial, accounting, engineering, and personnel management, including the following:
  • Operational Management
    • Verify vessel schedule integrity by monitoring daily performance and identifying potential disruptions.
    • Approve Port Engineer maintenance plans to align with fleet objectives and regulatory standards.
    • Coordinate emergent maintenance solutions to minimize downtime.
    • Communicate repair plans and timelines to stakeholders for transparency.
    • Manage Port Engineer schedules for optimal resource allocation.
    • Develop lay period work lists for interim dry dock planning.
    • Provide timely reporting through daily, weekly, and monthly updates.
    • Oversee senior engineering personnel onboard, including recruitment/selection, training, and preparation of performance reviews.
  • Financial Management
    • Develop and manage annual vessel budgets aligned with operational goals.
    • Audit vendor deliverables and invoices to ensure accuracy and prevent overbilling; resolve discrepancies promptly.
    • Monitor purchase order performance for cost control and accountability.
    • Prepare and submit Capital Expenditure Requests (CERs) for planned and emergent upgrades.
  • Compliance and Safety
    • Implement and refine policies supporting the Safety Management System (SMS).
    • Ensure environmental stewardship in all vessel operations.
    • Maintain regulatory certificates and verify compliance with classification requirements.
    • Monitor safety compliance as a member of the Marine Safety Committee meetings.

You have these skills:
  • Licensed USCG Chief Engineer, Unlimited Steam and Motor (First Assistant or Chief Engineer preferred).
  • Familiarity with all aspects of vessel operations and technical management for modern US flag containerships.
  • Experienced in overseeing shipboard maintenance and repair administration through Nautical Systems Enterprise (NSE).
  • Proficient in project management with expertise in MS Project for planning and execution.
  • Excellent ability to craft clear, concise documentation and apply critical analysis to complex problems.
  • Strong Excel capabilities with hands-on experience in pivot tables for analytical and reporting tasks.
  • Strong expertise in Microsoft Office Suite applications, including Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, and SharePoint, combined with solid Windows operating proficiency.
  • Excellent verbal communication and presentation skills, with the ability to engage both large and small audiences.

And these qualifications:
  • Licensed US Coast Guard Chief Engineer, Unlimited Steam & Motor (First Assistant or Chief Engineer preferred).
  • Bachelor's Degree in Engineering from a State or Federal Maritime Academy preferred.
  • Experience as a Containership Technical Manager.

Extra credit if you have:
  • Ability to travel as required.
  • Ability to commit to long hours of work when necessary to reach goals and/or deadlines, including work on the weekends and holidays, to meet deadlines.

Physical Requirements:
  • Sitting 60 minutes per hour
  • Walking 60 minutes per hour
  • Standing 60 minutes per hour

The annual salary range is posted for this position in Washington and California. The salary offered will depend upon qualifications and other operational considerations.
Matson offers medical, dental, and vision insurance benefits as well as a wide variety of other benefits to employees and their families. These benefits options include life insurance, supplemental life insurance, paid leaves of absence, and long-term disability insurance, as well as more specialized benefits such as emergency childcare, death, and dismemberment insurance, prepaid legal services, and adoption assistance. Matson offers a 401k with employer matching, cash balance plan, and profit sharing, along with 13 paid holidays, 10 sick days and a tiered vacation plan. More information on our benefits can be found here.
At Matson, we're looking for people to build a unified team to maintain our values of trust, integrity, and reliability. We welcome people who think rigorously and thoughtfully challenge assumptions.
#MI
Matson is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), age, sexual orientation, national origin, marital status, parental status, ancestry, disability, AIDS/HIV status, gender identity, gender expression, veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected status. Qualified applicants with arrest and/or conviction records will be considered for employment in a manner consistent with federal and state laws, as well as applicable local ordinances, including, but not limited to, the San Francisco and Los Angeles Fair Chance Ordinances.View our applicant privacy statement: https://www.matson.com/media/Applicant_Privacy_Statement.pdf.

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