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Watchkeeping Officer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

In addition to the above, all licensed officers must have all applicable training as required by the Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW 95) and ...

... watchkeeping duties, and other manual labor as required. Principal Duties and Responsibilities ... Stands navigational watch as required and under the supervision of the Officer on Watch. * Attends ...

... watchkeeping duties, and other manual labor as required. Principal Duties and Responsibilities ... Stands navigational watch as required and under the supervision of the Officer on Watch. * Attends ...

First Assistant Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$53.20 - $77.50/hr

Perform other duties as defined by a ship's senior officer during emergency situations ... Coast Guard Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW95) and ...

Navigation & Watchkeeping * Perform wheelhouse and anchor watches as requested by the Officer in Charge (OIC). * Utilize all wheelhouse instruments and resources--including charts, chart plotters ...

Reporting to the Engineering Officer on Watch, assists engineers with the proper operation ... of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers and a Transportation Workers ...

Showing results 41-57

Watchkeeping Officer information

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$23.5K

$75.9K

$182.5K

How much do watchkeeping officer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for watchkeeping officer in the United States is $75,929.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,000.00 and $98,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a watchkeeping officer?

Watchkeeping Officers, also known as deck officers, are licensed seafarers responsible for the safe navigation and operation of a ship while on watch. Their duties include monitoring the vessel’s course, speed, and position, ensuring compliance with maritime regulations, and overseeing safety and security during their assigned shifts. They also manage communication with other ships and shore stations, and may supervise crew members on watch. Watchkeeping Officers play a crucial role in preventing accidents at sea and maintaining the smooth running of the vessel.

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

To thrive as a Watchkeeping Officer, you need a solid understanding of navigation, maritime regulations, and ship operations, usually acquired through a maritime academy degree and a Certificate of Competency (CoC). Familiarity with electronic chart display and information systems (ECDIS), radar, and other navigational aids is crucial for safe vessel operation. Strong situational awareness, decision-making, and teamwork skills help you respond effectively to changing conditions and coordinate with crew members. These abilities are critical for ensuring vessel safety, regulatory compliance, and smooth ship operations at sea.

What are the main challenges watchkeeping officers face during long voyages, and how can they prepare for them?

Watchkeeping Officers often encounter challenges such as fatigue from irregular shift patterns, maintaining situational awareness during adverse weather, and effectively coordinating with multinational crews. To prepare, it's important to develop strong time-management and communication skills, stay informed on safety procedures, and prioritize rest during off-duty hours. Proactive engagement with training and regular drills also helps ensure readiness for emergencies and fosters teamwork on board.

What is the difference between Watchkeeping Officer vs Marine Engineer?

AspectWatchkeeping OfficerMarine Engineer
CredentialsSTCW certifications, maritime licensesSTCW certifications, engineering licenses
Work EnvironmentBridge, navigation areasEngine room, machinery spaces
Industry UsageShipping, maritime navigationShip propulsion, maintenance
Common Search IntentNavigation duties, watch schedulesEngine maintenance, systems repair

While both roles are vital on ships and require STCW certifications, a Watchkeeping Officer primarily oversees navigation and safety on the bridge, whereas a Marine Engineer focuses on engine systems and machinery. Their responsibilities and work environments differ, but both are essential for vessel operation and safety.

What are popular job titles related to Watchkeeping Officer jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Watchkeeping Officer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,929 per year, or $36.5 per hour.

Assistant Engineer on Research Vessel

Milwaukee, WI • On-site

CARDINAL POINT CAPTAINS INC
Water Transportation • 11 - 50 employees

$674.06/wk

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago


Job description

Description

Location: Homeport of Milwaukee, WI 

Status: Rotational Position, approximately 30 days on then 30 days off

Pay: $674.06 dayrate when underway; $486.70 when in port in reduced operating status


Description:


Cardinal Point Captains, Inc. (CPC) is seeking an Assistant Engineer to work aboard the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA's) research vessel (R/V) Lake Guardian, a 180' twin screw vessel with a Caterpillar bow thruster, Cummins engines, and Cummins generators.


The R/V Lake Guardian berths at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee School of Freshwater Sciences Marine Facilities dock in Milwaukee, Wisconsin when not conducting survey operations throughout the Great Lakes. The vessel does approximately 150 - 250 days at sea each year. CPC is seeking an Assistant Engineer to perform approximately 30-day shift rotations while underway, with additional working days available on the vessel when in port. 


As an Assistant Engineer onboard R/V Lake Guardian, you will play a vital role in supporting the safe and efficient operation of the vessel's engineering systems. Working closely with the Chief Engineer, you will contribute to the maintenance, repair, and operation of propulsion, power generation, and auxiliary systems essential for the vessel's functionality.


Key Responsibilities:


Engine Room Operations: Assist in the operation and monitoring of propulsion machinery, including main engines, generators, and auxiliary systems, to ensure optimal performance.

Maintenance and Repair: Participate in planned maintenance activities, routine inspections, and troubleshooting of machinery and equipment to identify and rectify issues promptly.

Watchkeeping: Stand engine room watch as per duty roster, monitoring machinery parameters, responding to alarms, and implementing corrective actions as required to maintain safety and operational readiness.

Safety Compliance: Adhere to all safety procedures, regulations, and industry standards, ensuring compliance with company policies and international maritime regulations.

Inventory Management: Assist in the inventory management of spare parts, tools, and consumables, maintaining adequate stock levels and ensuring proper documentation of inventory transactions.

Emergency Response: Actively participate in emergency drills and response procedures, demonstrating proficiency in fire-fighting, damage control, and other emergency protocols.

Documentation and Reporting: Maintain accurate records of maintenance activities, equipment performance, and fuel consumption, preparing reports and logs as required by company procedures and regulatory authorities.

Team Collaboration: Work collaboratively with the engineering team, deck officers, and other crew members to achieve operational objectives and promote a culture of teamwork and professionalism onboard.

Requirements

The Assistant Engineer shall have an endorsement issued in the grades of chief engineer (limited) or assistant engineer (limited) of steam, motor, and/or gas turbine-propelled vessels to serve within any propulsion power limitations on vessels of unlimited tonnage on inland waters and of less than 500 GRT in ocean, near-coastal, or Great Lakes service in accordance with 46 CFR 11.501. 

The engineer shall have the administrative ability to keep records and maintain an inventory of parts, tools, and fuel consumption, as well as the ability to log all maintenance tasks into a ship management software application.

Must be able to work collegially with scientists, natural resource managers, and educators.

Must be a member, or willing to become a member of the International Organization of Masters, Mates, and Pilots union.

Must be able to pass a drug screening and background check. 

Must maintain a U.S. passport as well as have a valid US state issued driver's license. 


AAP/EEO Statement 


CPC is an EEO employer. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, pregnancy, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, or covered veteran status.


Other Duties


Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.