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Watch Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

MSD

Power Plant - Oper Eng I

Rahway, NJ

$39.72 - $49.90/hr

Under the supervision of the Watch Engineer, observes and operates all outside utilities distribution systems, and auxiliary equipment in order to provide adequate services to all sections of the ...

Merck & Co., Inc.

Power Plant - Oper Eng I

Rahway, NJ · On-site

$39.72 - $49.90/hr

If so, then this is the opportunity for you! • Under the supervision of the Watch Engineer, observes and operates all outside utilities distribution systems, and auxiliary equipment in order to ...

Muddy Water Dredging Solutions

Dredge Oiler

Orange, TX · On-site

Will work with the watch engineer on duty at all times. The Oiler will assist in making engine room repairs on water, oil, and slop oil tanks. May lift, carry, pull, or push miscellaneous equipment ...

New

ABM Industries

Lead Engineer

Philadelphia, PA

$103.40K - $136.20K/yr

The Watch Engineer serves as the primary technical expert on-site and collaborates closely with property management and vendors. Key Responsibilities: * Supervise and coordinate the work of building ...

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$35

$38

How much do watch engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for watch engineer in the United States is $35.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33.41 and $37.74 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Watch Engineer, you need solid knowledge of mechanical and electrical systems, HVAC, plumbing, and general building operations, usually supported by relevant technical certifications or licensure. Familiarity with building automation systems (BAS), computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS), and safety protocols is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help Watch Engineers excel in troubleshooting and coordinating with facility teams. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and uninterrupted building operations.

What are some common challenges faced by Watch Engineers during a typical shift?

Watch Engineers often encounter challenges such as responding quickly to unexpected equipment malfunctions, managing multiple systems simultaneously, and maintaining detailed logs under time pressure. The role requires vigilance, as equipment failures can occur at any hour, and effective communication with other engineering staff is essential to coordinate repairs without disrupting facility operations. Staying updated on building systems and safety protocols is crucial to troubleshoot issues efficiently and ensure smooth operations throughout their watch.

What is a Watch Engineer?

A Watch Engineer is a professional responsible for monitoring and operating mechanical and electrical systems on ships, in power plants, or sometimes large buildings. Their main duties include checking equipment, performing maintenance, and ensuring that systems like engines, boilers, and pumps run safely and efficiently. They work in shifts, known as 'watches,' to provide 24-hour supervision. Watch Engineers play a crucial role in preventing breakdowns and responding to emergencies that may arise during their watch.

What jobs make $3,000 a month without a degree?

A watch engineer typically requires specialized training or certification, and salaries often depend on experience and location. However, some skilled trades, such as certain technicians, electricians, or commercial drivers, can earn around $3,000 monthly without a college degree. These roles often require vocational training, apprenticeships, or licensing but not a traditional degree.

What is the difference between Watch Engineer vs Signal Technician?

AspectWatch EngineerSignal Technician
CertificationsTypically requires electrical or mechanical engineering certifications, specialized watchmaking or horology credentialsRequires electrical, electronics, or telecommunications certifications
Work EnvironmentWorks in watch manufacturing, repair shops, or horology labsWorks in railway, transit systems, or transportation infrastructure
Industry UsageUsed mainly in horology, luxury watchmaking, and repairCommon in transportation, railway signaling, and communication systems

While both roles involve technical skills and maintenance, Watch Engineers focus on horology and watch repair, whereas Signal Technicians specialize in railway signaling and communication systems. The roles share certifications in electrical or mechanical work but differ significantly in work environment and industry focus.

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Watch Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Watch Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,350 per year, or $35.7 per hour.
Power Plant - Oper Eng I

Power Plant - Oper Eng I

MSD

Rahway, NJ

$39.72 - $49.90/hr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Are you looking for an exciting opportunity with a rapidly growing pharmaceutical manufacturer? If so, then this is the opportunity for you!

Under the supervision of the Watch Engineer, observes and operates all outside utilities distribution systems, and auxiliary equipment in order to provide adequate services to all sections of the site

Is responsible for the operation and monitoring of the turbo- generators, auxiliary equipment associated with same, including turbine room switchgear

Operates all water conditioning equipment associated with the power plant including reverse osmosis units, deionizers, polishers, filters, U.V. system, ozone systems and site process cooling water systems

This position will require the testing, treatment, and adjustments to the heater, boilers, cooling towers, Deionized (DI) water, Reverse Osmosis (RO) water for proper chemistry

Under the supervision of the Watch Engineer observes and operates 900#, 135# steam boilers, steam turbines and their auxiliaries.

Must have a thorough knowledge of boilers, piping, and auxiliaries and have a practical knowledge of the control instruments

The position will require the testing, treatment and adjustments to the heater and boilers for proper chemistry

8 hour Rotating Shift Work 6AM-2PM, 2PM-10PM, 10PM-6AM

Works from verbal and written instructions, governed by special operating procedures received from the Watch Engineer. Otherwise works from standard operating procedures

Exchanges operating information from previous shift and relays it on to relieving shift

Works under the supervision of Watch Engineer, who has the responsibility of spot checking these positions during each shift

Trains persons assigned to them for qualifications or advancement to a higher classification

Must practice proper Current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) and documentation requirements

License Requirements:

  • NJ Blue Seal (1-C) 3rd Class Engineer License or Higher

Position Qualifications:

Minimum Education Requirement:

  • High School Diploma /GED

Required experience and skills:

New Jersey Blue Seal 3rd Class Engineers (1-C) license.

Previous powerplant operating experience.

Ability, fitness, and skill.

Shift/Schedule:

  • Successful candidate must be able and willing to work a rotating shift schedule

Compensation range is $39.72 to $49.90

#MSJR

VETJOBS

SKILLEDLABORUS

Required Skills:

Preferred Skills:

Current Employees apply HERE

Current Contingent Workers apply HERE

Search Firm Representatives Please Read Carefully
Merck & Co., Inc., Rahway, NJ, USA, also known as Merck Sharp & Dohme LLC, Rahway, NJ, USA, does not accept unsolicited assistance from search firms for employment opportunities. All CVs / resumes submitted by search firms to any employee at our company without a valid written search agreement in place for this position will be deemed the sole property of our company. No fee will be paid in the event a candidate is hired by our company as a result of an agency referral where no pre-existing agreement is in place. Where agency agreements are in place, introductions are position specific. Please, no phone calls or emails.

Employee Status:

Regular

Relocation:

No relocation

VISA Sponsorship:

No

Travel Requirements:

No Travel Required

Flexible Work Arrangements:

Not Applicable

Shift:

1st - Day, 2nd - Evening, 3rd - Night

Valid Driving License:

No

Hazardous Material(s):

n/a

Job Posting End Date:

06/1/2026

*A job posting is effective until 11:59:59PM on the day BEFOREthe listed job posting end date. Please ensure you apply to a job posting no later than the day BEFORE the job posting end date.

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