Engineering Our Nation's Waterways: 1st Assistant Engineer Opportunity
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is seeking a dedicated and technically proficient 1st Assistant Engineer to join the crew of the Dredge Hurley. This role is more than just a job; it is a critical contribution to the navigation infrastructure of the Mississippi River. If you are an experienced marine engineer looking to apply your expertise to vital public service projects, this position offers a unique, challenging, and rewarding environment.
Job Responsibilities
The 1st Assistant Engineer (DR) performs a variety of technical and mechanical duties essential to the operation of the Dredge Hurley. Key responsibilities include:
- Machinery Maintenance: Inspecting and repairing engine room systems to ensure maximum efficiency.
- Diagnostic Inspection: Monitoring gauges, oil levels, and temperatures to preemptively identify mechanical failures.
- System Integrity: Ensuring the proper operation of water supply, heating, and refrigeration systems.
- Operational Leadership: Advising the Chief Engineer on repair feasibility and overseeing maintenance tasks during specific shifts.
Comparison of Dredge Season vs. Off-Season
| Feature | Dredging Season (May-Nov) | Off-Season |
|---|---|---|
| Schedule | 15 days on / 6 days off | 5 days / 8 hrs or 4 days / 10 hrs |
| Location | Mississippi River/Baton Rouge | Ensley Engineer Yard, Memphis |
| Accommodations | Provided on the vessel | Commute to yard |
Requirements
To be considered for this position, candidates must possess a current U.S. Coast Guard Chief Engineer's Limited Oceans license or equivalent Near Coastal license (at least 6,000 h.p.). You must demonstrate the ability to perform complex mechanical repairs with minimal supervision. Additionally, all applicants must pass the mandatory drug and alcohol testing protocols required for safety-sensitive federal positions.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive hourly wage, ranging from $40.93 to $47.75, which includes applicable locality pay and market supplements. As a federal position, it provides access to the comprehensive benefits package available to government employees.
Benefits
- Retirement and pension options.
- Health and life insurance programs.
- Paid federal holidays and leave accrual.
- Provided meals and lodging while on rotation.
Application Tips
- Resume Precision: Your resume is the most critical piece of your application. Ensure it is exactly two pages or less and clearly highlights your mechanical experience.
- Document Readiness: Ensure your USCG license is scanned and ready for upload before you begin the online application.
- Follow Instructions: Avoid acronyms and ensure your work history explicitly lists the hours worked per week, as this is used to verify your qualifications.
If you have the experience to keep the Dredge Hurley operational and a passion for engineering, we invite you to apply. Help the USACE build strong and ensure our nation's waterways remain open and effective.
Why This 1st Assistant Engineer (Dr) Job Matters
Power the mighty Dredge Hurley: Join the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers as a 1st Assistant Engineer and play a pivotal role in maintaining our nation's critical navigation infrastructure.
1st Assistant Engineer (Dr) Job Overview
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is seeking a skilled 1st Assistant Engineer to join the crew of the Dredge Hurley. Based out of Memphis, Tennessee, this position is essential to the navigation of the Mississippi River. The role involves hands-on mechanical maintenance, diagnostic inspection, and the operational oversight of vessel machinery. You will work in a dynamic environment, alternating between field operations during dredging season and maintenance activities at the Ensley Engineer Yard. This is a unique opportunity to apply your technical expertise to high-impact civil works.
Requirements for 1st Assistant Engineer (Dr)
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Possession of a valid U.S. Coast Guard Chief Engineer's Limited Oceans license or Chief Engineer Near Coastal license of at least 6,000 horsepower.
- Ability to perform technical inspections and mechanical repairs without more than normal supervision.
- Must be able to pass physical demands, including lifting/carrying up to 40 pounds and working in confined or uncomfortable spaces.
- Willingness to adhere to drug and alcohol testing requirements, including random, unannounced screenings.
- Submission of a professional resume, limited to two pages or less.
Preferred Qualifications for 1st Assistant Engineer (Dr)
- Prior experience operating and maintaining diesel towboat engine room machinery.
- Proven history of troubleshooting complex mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic systems.
- Experience performing chemical checks on shipboard water and filtration systems.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive Federal Benefits Package
- ✓Professional development opportunities within the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
- ✓Provided meals and lodging during the dredging season
- ✓Access to a stable, long-term career in federal service
💡 How to Apply 1st Assistant Engineer (Dr) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for 1st Assistant Engineer (Dr) Job
- Review the full job announcement on the official federal portal.
- Ensure your resume is exactly two pages or less, detailing your relevant experience and hours worked.
- Collect all required documents, including your USCG license/certification and performance appraisals.
- Complete the online questionnaire through the specified application portal.
- Monitor your status and application progress through your USAJOBS account.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to the two-page limit; excess pages will result in immediate disqualification.
- Ensure every job entry includes the employer's name, title, start/end dates, and average hours worked per week.
- Submit your USCG license/certification with your initial package to avoid being rated as ineligible.
- Use plain language and avoid obscure industry acronyms to ensure the HR team can fully understand your qualifications.
- Double-check your application for completion before the closing date, as documents can take time to clear virus scans.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the work schedule like on the Dredge Hurley?
During dredging season (May-November), crews work a 15-days-on/6-days-off rotation with 12-hour shifts. In the off-season, the work is performed at the Ensley Engineer Yard on a standard 5-day or 4-day workweek schedule.
Is a specific security clearance required?
No, this position is designated as Non-sensitive (NS)/Low Risk, though it does require adherence to safety-sensitive drug and alcohol testing 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 organizations. We operate at the intersection of infrastructure development, environmental stewardship, and national security. By joining our team in the Memphis District, you become part of a professional network dedicated to maintaining the reliable flow of commerce along the nation's most vital river systems.