Master Your Career: Become a Master Tender with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Are you looking for a career that combines technical expertise with a sense of purpose? The St. Louis District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is currently hiring for a Master Tender (Dual Rate). This is a unique opportunity to operate vessels that keep our nation’s waterways functioning, supporting the essential work of the Dredge Potter.
Job Responsibilities
As a Master Tender, you will be the backbone of vessel operations in the St. Louis District. Your primary duties will include:
- Vessel Operation: Navigating small towing vessels and crew boats in various river conditions.
- Operational Support: Managing the floating plant, assembling tows, and moving crane barges to support dredging operations.
- Maintenance: Performing routine mechanical repairs and adjustments to vessel equipment.
- Documentation: Maintaining accurate daily logs and service records to ensure fleet readiness.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Must be able to perform the work without more than normal supervision.
- Must provide a valid, job-related license or certification.
- Ability to lift 40+ lbs and work in varying weather conditions.
- Pass a pre-employment drug screening.
Comparison Table: Why Work for the USACE?
| Benefit Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Work Environment | Dynamic, outdoor, and professional maritime setting |
| Impact | Direct contribution to national water infrastructure |
| Career Growth | Non-competitive promotion potential to grade 7 |
| Location | Historic Saint Louis near the Gateway Arch |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive hourly wage ranging from $35.18 to $46.19 per hour. Beyond the hourly pay, employees benefit from federal employment standards, including transit subsidies, access to comprehensive benefits, and the potential for recruitment incentives.
Application Tips
- Respect the Page Limit: Your resume must be two pages or less. Submissions exceeding this limit will not be reviewed.
- Documentation is Key: Attach your license or certification explicitly. Failure to do so will result in an ineligible rating.
- Be Precise: List employer names, specific dates (Month/Year), and hours worked per week to ensure your experience is fully credited.
If you have the maritime skills and the drive to contribute to a critical federal mission, apply today. The St. Louis District is looking for individuals ready to build strong and engineer a legacy. Visit USAJOBS to start your application before the August 10, 2026, deadline.
Why This Master Tender (Dual Rate) Job Matters
Take command on the Mississippi: Join the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers as a Master Tender and play a vital role in our nation's critical waterway infrastructure.
Master Tender (Dual Rate) Job Overview
The St. Louis District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is seeking a skilled Master Tender to operate diesel-powered towboats. This role is essential for supporting the Dredge Potter’s mission by managing floating plants, assembling tows, and navigating crane barges. You will be part of a dedicated team committed to maintaining the vital waterways that drive our nation’s economy.
Requirements for Master Tender (Dual Rate)
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Ability to perform the duties of a Master Tender without more than normal supervision.
- Proven experience in operating small towing vessels and crew boats.
- Proficiency in performing routine mechanical maintenance and repairs.
- Valid job-related license or certification (must be submitted with application).
- Ability to lift equipment weighing over 40 pounds.
- Must be able to pass a drug test.
- Must complete a Selective Service Registration certification if applicable.
Preferred Qualifications for Master Tender (Dual Rate)
- Demonstrated ability to interpret and provide instructions for complex operational tasks.
- Experience in maritime environments involving heavy river traffic.
- Strong mechanical aptitude for troubleshooting and engine repair.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive hourly pay with locality adjustments.
- ✓Access to federal health and retirement programs.
- ✓Transportation subsidies for mass transit.
- ✓Opportunity to work in a high-impact, mission-critical environment.
- ✓Professional development within the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
💡 How to Apply Master Tender (Dual Rate) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Master Tender (Dual Rate) Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that is two pages or less, specifically highlighting relevant maritime experience, hours worked, and job dates.
- Complete the required online questionnaire through the USA Staffing portal.
- Upload a copy of your required professional license or certification.
- Submit your complete application package, including all supporting documentation, by the closing date of August 10, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume is strictly two pages or less; longer resumes will be automatically rejected.
- Use clear, plain language and avoid internal acronyms.
- Verify that your resume includes specific dates (month/year) and hours worked per week for every position listed.
- Double-check that all required licenses are attached before submitting, as missing documents cannot be added later.
- Monitor your application status through your USAJOBS dashboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'Dual Rate' mean for this position?
This position is dual-rated to the positions of Third Mate, Pipeline Dredge (XH-5784-08) and Master, Tender (XH-5784-09), requiring the incumbent to transition between these roles as needed by management.
Is a security clearance required?
No, a security clearance is not required for this position; however, it is subject to suitability and fitness credentialing.
Are relocation expenses covered?
Permanent Change of Station (PCS) costs are not authorized for this position.
Job from U.S. Army Corps Of Engineers
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is one of the world's premier public engineering organizations. We don't just build infrastructure; we engineer the future of our nation. By managing water resources and infrastructure, our team ensures the safety and economic viability of communities across the United States. When you work with the USACE, you join a network of professionals dedicated to national resilience.