Launch Your Maritime Career as a First Assistant Engineer
Are you a highly skilled maritime professional looking to make an impact? The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is hiring a First Assistant Engineer for our hopper dredge operations in Portland, Oregon. This vital role ensures that our navigation infrastructure remains operational and efficient.
Job Responsibilities
As a First Assistant Engineer, you are responsible for the heartbeat of the vessel. Your daily duties include:
- Inspecting engine spaces, dredge pumps, and bow thrusters.
- Monitoring pressure gauges, alarms, and temperature sensors to prevent mechanical failure.
- Performing routine and emergency maintenance on AC/DC electrical systems.
- Supervising engine room staff and assisting the Chief Engineer with complex repairs.
- Ensuring strict compliance with safety regulations and environmental standards.
Comparison: Standard Engineering vs. Dredge Operations
| Feature | Standard Marine Engineering | Dredge Operations Engineering |
|---|---|---|
| Equipment | Standard propulsion | Dredge pumps/winches |
| Maintenance | Scheduled | Continuous/Rigorous |
| Environment | Static | Variable/High-Stress |
| Rotation | Varies | 15 On / 13 Off |
Requirements
To be eligible, you must:
- Possess a current USCG Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC).
- Hold a valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
- Be able to perform physical labor in high-heat and noisy environments.
- Maintain normal color perception for electrical troubleshooting.
Salary Overview
Compensation for this role is competitive, ranging from $51.60 to $60.20 per hour. This includes locality pay and market supplements based on the Portland, Oregon area.
Benefits
USACE offers a robust benefits package, including:
- Federal retirement planning.
- Health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Generous vacation and sick leave policies.
- Potential recruitment or relocation incentives for qualified individuals.
How to Apply
- Prepare a concise, two-page resume.
- Ensure your USCG credentials are ready for upload.
- Apply via the official USAJOBS portal.
- Complete the online questionnaire in full.
This position offers the chance to work with a world-class team in the Portland area. If you possess the required maritime credentials and a passion for engineering excellence, we encourage you to apply before the closing date.
Why This First Assistant Engineer Hopper Dredge Dual Rate Job Matters
Take the helm of your career with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and operate state-of-the-art dredging vessels in the Pacific Northwest.
First Assistant Engineer Hopper Dredge Dual Rate Job Overview
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Portland District, is seeking a skilled First Assistant Engineer to join the Navigation Division. This is a critical role responsible for the operational readiness and mechanical maintenance of hopper dredges. You will serve as a technical expert, managing engine room equipment, electrical systems, and machinery to ensure the safe and efficient navigation of the vessel. The position offers a unique rotation schedule that balances demanding maritime work with consistent time off, making it an excellent opportunity for experienced maritime professionals.
Requirements for First Assistant Engineer Hopper Dredge Dual Rate
- Possession of a current United States Coast Guard (USCG) Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) for First Assistant Engineer 2250 horsepower (Yaquina) or higher, OR First Assistant Engineer Unlimited Horse Power (Essayons).
- Valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
- Ability to perform engine room operations with minimal supervision.
- Must be able to exert moderate to heavy physical effort, including lifting items over 45 lbs.
- Must possess normal color perception for troubleshooting and repair tasks.
- Commitment to wearing required safety gear and complying with maritime safety protocols.
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Selective Service registration for applicable male applicants.
Preferred Qualifications for First Assistant Engineer Hopper Dredge Dual Rate
- Prior experience operating and maintaining dredge-specific mechanical systems.
- Advanced technical expertise in AC/DC electrical systems and marine engine controls.
- Demonstrated ability to perform repairs on heavy-duty ship machinery and steering systems.
- Familiarity with federal hiring authorities and prior service in maritime environments.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive hourly pay with locality adjustments.
- ✓Standard federal leave and holiday benefits.
- ✓Opportunities for professional growth and training.
- ✓Comprehensive health and retirement benefits provided by the federal government.
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives for highly qualified candidates.
💡 How to Apply First Assistant Engineer Hopper Dredge Dual Rate Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for First Assistant Engineer Hopper Dredge Dual Rate Job
- Log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less, clearly documenting relevant work experience with hours worked per week.
- Complete the online questionnaire during the application process.
- Upload all required documentation, specifically your USCG Merchant Mariner Credential and TWIC.
- Review your application package for completeness and accuracy before submission.
- Submit your application package by the 11:59 PM EST closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume specifically addresses the specialized experience required for this role.
- Sanitize sensitive documents, such as military orders, if they contain personal data of others.
- Keep your resume to two pages; longer resumes will result in automatic disqualification.
- Verify that your SF-50 clearly demonstrates time-in-grade if applying for higher grade levels.
- Submit your credentials early to allow for the mandatory virus scan process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the work schedule for this position?
The schedule generally consists of 15 days on and 13 days off, with one annual rotation of 8 days on and 6 days off in January.
Is a security clearance required?
No, a security clearance is not required for this position.
Can I submit a long resume if I have a lot of experience?
No. Resumes must be two pages or less. Any resume exceeding this limit will not be considered.
Do I need a security clearance?
No, this position is designated as non-sensitive.
Is there travel involved?
Yes, travel is required during the dredging season.
Job from U.S. Army Corps Of Engineers
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is one of the world's premier public engineering, design, and construction management organizations. Ranked among the top government agencies for workplace culture, USACE provides challenging, rewarding careers that contribute directly to national security, the economy, and environmental sustainability.