Engineering Our Nation's Waterways: Become a 2nd Assistant Engineer with the USACE

Are you a skilled marine engineer looking to make a tangible impact on the nation’s infrastructure? The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is currently hiring a 2nd Assistant Engineer to join the St. Louis District, specifically assigned to the Dredge Potter. This is a unique opportunity to work on complex, large-scale maritime operations in the heart of the Midwest.

Job Responsibilities

As a 2nd Assistant Engineer, you will serve as a vital mechanical expert aboard a Class I pipeline dredge. Your primary mission is to keep the vessel operational and efficient. Key responsibilities include:

Mechanical Maintenance: Performing repairs on engine room machinery, including fuel lines, cylinders, pistons, and shears.
System Monitoring: Observing pressure gauges, vacuum gauges, and tachometers to identify potential malfunctions before they cause damage.
Operational Oversight: Managing heating, refrigeration, and water systems to ensure the vessel remains a functional living and working environment.
Safety Adherence: Following strict protocols to prevent equipment damage and maintain the safety of the crew in potentially hazardous environments.

Requirements

To qualify for this position, candidates must demonstrate the ability to perform the work without extensive supervision. Essential requirements include:

U.S. Citizenship.
A valid job-related license or professional certification.
Physical capability to work in cramped spaces, climb ladders, and lift up to 40 pounds.
Successful completion of a pre-employment drug screening.
A clean record of technical competence in marine environments.

Compensation and Comparison

The following table outlines the compensation and key attributes of this federal role:

Feature	Detail
Position Title	2nd Assistant Engineer Pipeline Dredge Class I
Salary	$39.60 - $49.93 per hour
Location	Saint Louis, Missouri
Job Grade	XH-7 to XH-9
Promotion Potential	Grade 9

Benefits

Employees of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers receive a robust federal benefits package. This includes:

Health and Wellness: Comprehensive health insurance options and life insurance plans.
Retirement: Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
Commuter Support: Transportation subsidies for those utilizing mass transit.
Professional Growth: Opportunities for career advancement and potential dual-rating for higher-grade responsibilities.

Application Tips

Applying for a federal position requires precision. To ensure your application is reviewed successfully:

Respect the Page Limit: Your resume must be two pages or less. Overly long resumes will not be considered.
Be Specific: Include the number of hours worked per week for every position listed.
Use Plain Language: Avoid industry jargon and acronyms. Describe your experience so that any hiring manager can understand your technical capabilities.
Submit Early: While the application deadline is in 2027, the initial review cut-off is September 24, 2026. Submitting before this date gives you the best chance of early consideration.

The Dredge Potter team is looking for dedicated, hardworking individuals who are ready to take on the challenges of modern marine engineering. If you possess the mechanical aptitude and the required licensure, this is your chance to build a meaningful career with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Why This 2nd Assistant Engineer Pipeline Dredge Class I Job Matters

Power the nation's waterways: Join the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers as a 2nd Assistant Engineer on the Dredge Potter.

2nd Assistant Engineer Pipeline Dredge Class I Job Overview

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is seeking a skilled 2nd Assistant Engineer to join the Operations Division at the St. Louis District. This role is critical to the maintenance and mechanical integrity of a Class I diesel/electric pipeline dredge. You will serve as a vital member of the engine room crew, ensuring machinery operates at peak efficiency to support infrastructure projects that protect communities and strengthen our nation's water resources.

Requirements for 2nd Assistant Engineer Pipeline Dredge Class I

U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
Ability to perform the duties of a 2nd Assistant Engineer without more than normal supervision.
Must possess a valid, job-related license or certification.
Demonstrated ability to handle engine room controls, operations, and maintenance.
Must be able to frequently lift and carry equipment weighing up to 40 pounds.
Must complete a Pre-Employment Certification Statement for Selective Service (for males born after 1959).
Must successfully pass a pre-employment drug screening.
Must be able to work in physically demanding environments, including confined spaces and varied weather conditions.

Preferred Qualifications for 2nd Assistant Engineer Pipeline Dredge Class I

Possession of U.S. Coast Guard Chief or Assistant Engineer's license commensurate with vessel horsepower and machinery type.
Experience with large-scale diesel/electric powered pipeline dredging equipment.
Proven track record in technical troubleshooting and complex engine room repairs.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive hourly pay with locality adjustments.
✓Access to comprehensive federal health, retirement, and insurance programs.
✓Transportation subsidies for mass transit users.
✓Opportunities for professional development within the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives based on management discretion.

💡 How to Apply 2nd Assistant Engineer Pipeline Dredge Class I Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for 2nd Assistant Engineer Pipeline Dredge Class I Job

Register for a USAJOBS account if you do not already have one.
Prepare your federal resume, ensuring it is two pages or less.
Upload required supporting documents, including your license or certification.
Complete the online questionnaire via the provided application link.
Submit your application package before the 11:59 PM EST closing date on August 23, 2027.
Monitor your application status through the USAJOBS dashboard.

💡 General Tips

Your resume must explicitly detail your work hours per week and specific dates of employment.
Avoid using technical acronyms that non-subject matter experts might not recognize.
Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit, as longer resumes will be excluded.
Double-check that all supporting documents, especially licenses, are attached before clicking submit.
The initial review cut-off is September 24, 2026; apply early for priority consideration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this position eligible for telework?

No, this is a hands-on field position performed on-site on the vessel and is not eligible for telework.

What is the work environment like?

Work is performed both inside and outside, exposing the employee to varying climates, loud noises, greasy conditions, and physically strenuous activities such as climbing and lifting.

Can I hold a higher rank while in this position?

Yes, this position is dual-rated to the 1st Assistant Engineer role. If you possess the appropriate licenses and qualifications, you may be assigned higher-level duties.

Is relocation assistance provided?

Relocation incentives may be authorized at management discretion, though Permanent Change of Station (PCS) costs are not currently authorized.

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. Our mission extends far beyond construction; we are the stewards of our nation’s water resources. From environmental restoration and disaster response to maintaining navigable waterways, USACE professionals build the resilience that keeps our communities safe and our economy moving. By joining our team, you are not just taking a job—you are contributing to a legacy of service.