Launch Your Career: Second Mate Pipeline Dredge (Dual Rate) with the USACE

Are you a skilled maritime professional looking for a position that offers both stability and technical challenge? The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is hiring a Second Mate for the iconic Dredge Potter in Saint Louis, Missouri. This is a vital role for individuals who thrive on the water and possess the mechanical and navigational skills to maintain our nation's waterways.

Job Responsibilities

As a Second Mate, your primary duties involve standing watch on a 32-inch discharge pipeline dredge. Responsibilities include:

Supervising shift crews, including deckhands and equipment operators.
Operating derrick and Class I cranes.
Performing and overseeing vessel maintenance.
Ensuring adherence to stringent safety and environmental regulations.

Comparison Table: Why Join USACE?

Feature	USACE Maritime Role	Private Sector Maritime
Job Security	High (Federal)	Variable
Benefits	Full Federal Package	Employer Specific
Mission	National Infrastructure	Commercial Profit
Training	Professional Development	Varies by Company

Requirements

U.S. Citizenship.
Ability to perform watch duties without standard supervision.
Valid U.S. Coast Guard certifications and licenses.
Physical ability to work in all weather conditions and manage heavy equipment.

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive salary range of $42.28 to $49.43 per hour, reflecting the specialized nature of the maritime and crane operation duties involved.

Benefits

Working with the USACE provides employees with more than just a paycheck. Enjoy federal employment stability, potential transportation subsidies, and the opportunity to work in a historically significant city like Saint Louis.

Application Tips

Keep your resume under two pages; this is a strict requirement.
Clearly state your hours per week for all previous experience.
Ensure your USCG licenses are attached to your application package.

The position of Second Mate on the Dredge Potter is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the mission of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. If you meet the qualifications and are ready for a challenging career in St. Louis, we encourage you to apply before the closing date.

Why This Second Mate Pipeline Dredge Class I (Dual Rate) Job Matters

Take command of the waterways with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers as a Second Mate on the historic Dredge Potter—a challenging role for maritime professionals.

Second Mate Pipeline Dredge Class I (Dual Rate) Job Overview

The St. Louis District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is seeking a skilled Second Mate to join the crew of the Dredge Potter. This position is vital to our operations, focusing on safe navigation and maintenance of a 32-inch hydraulic, diesel-electric dustpan dredge. This is a unique dual-rate opportunity that may involve acting in a First Mate capacity. Candidates must be prepared to work in a demanding maritime environment where safety and technical expertise are paramount.

Requirements for Second Mate Pipeline Dredge Class I (Dual Rate)

U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
Must be able to stand regular watch on a self-propelled hydraulic, diesel-electric dustpan dredge.
Must possess the ability to perform work without more than normal supervision.
Must hold relevant U.S. Coast Guard Licenses or Certifications.
Successful completion of a pre-employment drug test is required.
Must be able to lift items weighing up to 40 pounds and perform duties in all weather conditions.
Ability to work in close quarters and maintain safety protocols for deep-water and deck operations.

Preferred Qualifications for Second Mate Pipeline Dredge Class I (Dual Rate)

Possession of appropriate USACE crane certifications and training.
Experience operating derrick or Class I cranes.
Proven experience in shift supervision of deck crews and vessel maintenance teams.
Background in maritime vessel operation, including navigation in varying visibility.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive hourly compensation.
✓Contribution to national engineering and environmental infrastructure.
✓Access to a collaborative and professional federal agency environment.
✓Opportunities for professional growth and training.
✓Eligibility for transportation subsidies for mass transit.
✓Located in the vibrant St. Louis area near major cultural and sports landmarks.

💡 How to Apply Second Mate Pipeline Dredge Class I (Dual Rate) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Second Mate Pipeline Dredge Class I (Dual Rate) Job

Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
Review the job announcement and gather all required certificates and licenses.
Complete the online questionnaire via the provided link.
Upload your resume and all mandatory supporting documentation.
Submit your application before the closing date of October 7, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Your resume must explicitly detail hours worked per week and specific dates (month/year) for each role.
Avoid acronyms; ensure your experience is described in plain, understandable language.
Submit all required licenses early, as the virus scan process can take time.
Ensure your resume does not exceed the two-page limit, as longer resumes are automatically disqualified.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the dual-rate aspect of this position mean?

This position is dual-rated with the First Mate role. When qualified, you may be assigned the duties of a First Mate during their absence, provided you hold the necessary USCG and USACE certifications.

Is a security clearance required for this role?

No, this is a non-sensitive/low-risk position, though it does require successful credentialing and suitability assessments.

What if my resume is longer than two pages?

Applications with resumes exceeding the two-page limit will be removed from consideration.

Is there a drug test?

Yes, this position requires a pre-employment drug test as part of the safety protocols.

Job from U.S. Army Corps Of Engineers

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is one of the world's premier public engineering agencies. Ranked as a top large-agency subcomponent, the USACE offers a collaborative and innovative environment. By joining the St. Louis District, you contribute directly to national security, the economy, and the environment.