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Watchkeeping Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Helix Energy Solutions Group, Inc

The 3 rd Assistant Engineer coordinates with the Chief Engineer, 1 st and 2 nd Assistant Engineers, Watchkeeping Engineers, Electrician, Chief Officer or any other personnel necessary for the safe ...

gCaptain

First Assistant Engineer

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$270K/yr

Standards of Training and Certification of Watchkeeping (STCW) with the following endorsements: - III-1, III-2, III-3, III-4 and III-5. - Assistant Engineer (or higher). - Proficiency in survival ...

HII

$82K - $103K/yr

Engine operation and watchkeeping : Running and monitoring the main propulsion plant, ensuring safe ... AI/ML) experts; engineers; technologists; scientists; logistics experts; and business ...

HII

$82K - $103K/yr

Engine operation and watchkeeping : Running and monitoring the main propulsion plant, ensuring safe ... AI/ML) experts; engineers; technologists; scientists; logistics experts; and business ...

State of Louisiana

PORT ENGINEER

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

The Port Engineer supports oceanographic research for Louisiana Universities Marine Consortium in ... Current Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) certificate. * Current EPA ...

petersonschool.online

3rd Boiler Engineer

Lawrence, MA · On-site

Artisan Chef Manufacturing is searching for a dedicated 3rd Engineer Boiler Technician to add to ... Standards of Training, Certification and watchkeeping. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS The physical demands ...

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Watchkeeping Engineer information

What is a watchkeeping engineer?

Watchkeeping Engineers are licensed professionals responsible for monitoring and maintaining the machinery and systems onboard ships during their assigned shifts, known as 'watches.' They ensure that the engine room and related mechanical and electrical systems operate smoothly and safely. Their duties include conducting routine inspections, troubleshooting equipment, responding to alarms, and keeping detailed records of machinery performance. Watchkeeping Engineers play a critical role in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of vessels at sea.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a watchkeeping engineer?

To thrive as a Watchkeeping Engineer, you need a solid understanding of marine engineering principles, mechanical systems, and usually a relevant engineering degree with a Certificate of Competency (CoC). Familiarity with shipboard machinery, engine room automation systems, and maintenance management software is essential. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are vital soft skills for this role. These abilities are critical for ensuring the safe and efficient operation of vessel machinery, minimizing downtime, and upholding maritime safety standards.

What are some common challenges faced by watchkeeping engineers during long voyages, and how can they be managed?

Watchkeeping Engineers often face challenges such as managing fatigue due to shift work, troubleshooting unexpected machinery issues, and maintaining effective communication with the bridge and other departments. To manage these, it’s important to adhere to proper rest schedules, maintain detailed logs, and proactively conduct routine checks on critical equipment. Collaboration with fellow engineers and clear reporting of any anomalies ensures smooth operations and helps prevent breakdowns, making teamwork and organization essential skills for success in this role.

What is the difference between Watchkeeping Engineer vs Marine Engineer?

AspectWatchkeeping EngineerMarine Engineer
CertificationsSTCW certifications, Marine Engineering LicenseSTCW certifications, Marine Engineering License
Work EnvironmentOnboard ships, engine rooms, and maintenance areasOnboard ships, engine rooms, and maintenance areas
Job ResponsibilitiesMonitoring engine performance, troubleshooting, routine maintenanceDesign, repair, and maintain ship engines and systems

Both Watchkeeping Engineers and Marine Engineers work onboard ships, requiring similar certifications and operating in engine rooms. The main difference is that Watchkeeping Engineers focus on continuous monitoring during watch shifts, while Marine Engineers may have broader responsibilities including design and repair tasks. Both roles are essential for ship operation and safety.

What states have the most Watchkeeping Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Watchkeeping Engineer jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Watchkeeping Engineer jobs?

For Watchkeeping Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Watchkeeping Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

3rd Assistant Engineer

On-site

Helix Energy Solutions Group, Inc
1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Helix Energy Solutions Group, Incexternal

Other

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

The 3 rd Assistant Engineer coordinates with the Chief Engineer, 1 st and 2 nd Assistant Engineers, Watchkeeping Engineers, Electrician, Chief Officer or any other personnel necessary for the safe and efficient operation of the vessel. Reports to the Chief Engineer with a functional reporting line to the 1 st Assistant Engineer.

Primary Duties / Responsibilities
  • The safe and efficient functioning of all aspects of the engineering department during his watch.
  • Monitoring of machinery to ensure efficient operation, to minimize fuel and oil consumption and to ensure maximum availability of machinery at all times.
  • Making regular rounds of the machinery spaces during his watch.
  • Ensuring that other departments are kept fully informed of any engine room activities or conditions which may affect them.
  • Testing, maintenance and repair of machinery, equipment and emergency plant as directed by the 1st Assistant Engineer / Chief Engineer.
  • Ensuring that no major repair or maintenance will be done without informing the 1st Assistant Engineer (or Chief Engineer during 1st Assistant Engineer's absence) .
  • Completion of Engine Room Logs.
  • Familiarization, supervision and direction of engine room ratings.
  • Performing emergency duties in accordance with the vessel's Muster List / Station Bill.
  • Any other duties as required by the 1st Assistant / Chief Engineer.
  • Ensuring that daily activities within the engineering department are carried out in a safe and healthy manner and that the impact of the engineering department operations on the environment are within acceptable limits.
  • Ensuring that the Company Environmental Policies are complied with at all times.
  • Complete other duties and/or projects as required and assigned by management.
QualificationsEducation / Training:

The 3 rd Assistant Engineer shall, as a minimum, be qualified in accordance with STCW 95 Regulation III/1.

Experience:

Preferably minimum 2 years of experience as Engineer on a DP vessel or MODU.

Skills:

Good management skills. Fluent in both verbal and written English. Computer literate.

Special Requirements
  • Additional requirements as contained in the Qualifications and Training Matrix appropriate to each vessel.
  • The 3 rd Assistant Engineer has the authority to stop ANY activity on the grounds of immediate safety, health and environmental hazards. They shall immediately advise the Captain, Chief Engineer and Superintendent if it would be unsafe to start or continue any operation due to any technical defect.
Decision Making:

The 3 rd Assistant Engineer coordinates with the 1st Assistant Engineer, Electricians, DP Operators or any other personnel necessary for the safe and efficient operation of the vessel.

Helix Energy Solutions Group is an equal opportunity employer.

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