Launch Your Maritime Career as an Assistant Master Hopper Dredge in Portland
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is seeking a dedicated and experienced maritime professional to join the Navigation Division in Portland, Oregon. As an Assistant Master, you will serve on the front lines of water infrastructure, maintaining the critical paths that support international trade and regional safety. This is a unique opportunity to apply your navigation expertise to a mission-driven organization.
Job Responsibilities
The Assistant Master is responsible for the overall safety, navigation, and operation of a hopper dredge. Key duties include:
- Supervising crew members and managing daily deck operations.
- Directing dredging and transport activities according to the Manual of Instructions.
- Providing training and mentorship to subordinate deck officers.
- Ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols and maritime regulations.
- Administering vessel logistics and maintaining crew morale.
Requirements
Success in this role requires a specific set of qualifications:
- Licensure: You must possess a current U.S. Coast Guard License for Master, Unlimited Tonnage, Oceans, or higher.
- Documentation: A valid Transportation Worker Identification Card (TWIC) is mandatory.
- Experience: Demonstrated ability to perform the duties of the role without supervision.
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.
Skills Comparison
| Skill Category | Key Competencies |
|---|---|
| Technical | Navigation, Dredge Operation, Safety Protocols |
| Leadership | Crew Supervision, Training, Morale Building |
Salary and Benefits
- Compensation: The position offers an hourly rate of $75.45.
- Incentives: Highly qualified candidates may be eligible for recruitment, relocation, or advanced leave accrual.
- Work Environment: A challenging, team-oriented, and vital role in a top-rated federal agency.
Application Tips
- Keep it Short: Your resume cannot exceed two pages. Focus on high-impact accomplishments.
- Clarity is Key: Avoid abbreviations and internal industry slang.
- Double-Check Requirements: Ensure your USCG license and TWIC are scanned and uploaded.
- Status Updates: Use the USAJOBS dashboard to monitor your application progress.
Serving as an Assistant Master Hopper Dredge is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the infrastructure that sustains our nation. If you possess the required maritime credentials and a passion for leadership, we encourage you to submit your application by September 18, 2026.
Why This Assistant Master Hopper Dredge Job Matters
Take the helm of essential maritime operations with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and play a vital role in maintaining the nation's critical waterways.
Assistant Master Hopper Dredge Job Overview
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Navigation Division in Portland, Oregon, is seeking a highly skilled Assistant Master to serve aboard our advanced hopper dredges. These vessels, including the Yaquina and Essayons, are the backbone of our efforts to keep harbors, ocean bars, and major rivers navigable for commercial and public shipping. As an Assistant Master, you will provide critical support in vessel operations, navigation, and crew leadership to ensure the safe and efficient execution of our dredging missions.
Requirements for Assistant Master Hopper Dredge
- Possession of a current U.S. Coast Guard License for Master, Unlimited Tonnage, Oceans, or higher.
- Possession of a current Transportation Worker Identification Card (TWIC).
- Ability to demonstrate sufficient knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the duties of the position without more than normal supervision.
- Ability to pass a pre-employment drug test.
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must complete a Pre-Employment Certification Statement for Selective Service Registration.
Preferred Qualifications for Assistant Master Hopper Dredge
- Demonstrated experience in maritime leadership and supervision.
- Proven expertise in hopper dredge navigation and operations.
- Strong communication skills for instructing deck officers.
- A track record of maintaining high morale and discipline within a maritime crew.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive hourly wage of $75.45.
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives for highly qualified candidates.
- ✓Opportunity for advanced leave accrual.
- ✓Employment with a high-performing federal agency recognized for engineering excellence.
- ✓Collaborative and professional team environment.
💡 How to Apply Assistant Master Hopper Dredge Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Assistant Master Hopper Dredge Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
- Complete the online questionnaire through the provided portal.
- Upload all required supporting documents, including your USCG license and TWIC.
- Ensure all documents are uploaded and cleared by the system's virus scan prior to the deadline.
- Submit your complete application package by 11:59 PM EST on September 18, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Your resume must explicitly detail your work experience, including hours worked per week and specific duties; keep it to two pages maximum.
- Do not use acronyms or industry jargon that may be unfamiliar to HR staff.
- Be sure to re-select all necessary documents from your USAJOBS profile during the application submission process.
- Verify that your SF-50 forms clearly document time-in-grade if you are applying as a current federal employee.
- Sanitize sensitive personal information from supporting documents before uploading.
Frequently Asked Questions
What specific USCG license is required for this role?
You must hold a valid U.S. Coast Guard License for Master, Unlimited Tonnage, Oceans, or higher to be considered for this position.
Is relocation assistance provided?
No, payment of Permanent Change of Station (PCS) costs is not authorized for this position.
Can I submit a resume longer than two pages?
No. Resumes exceeding two pages will be removed from consideration, so please ensure your document is concise and relevant.
Job from U.S. Army Corps Of Engineers
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is one of the world's most respected public engineering and construction management agencies. Consistently ranked as a top federal employer, USACE prides itself on a collaborative culture that fosters technical growth and provides meaningful work that impacts the environment, the economy, and our national security.