Become a 2nd Mate with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Are you a maritime professional looking to make a lasting impact? The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is seeking a dedicated 2nd Mate PLD Class I to join the team on the Dredge William L. Goetz. This role is perfect for someone who thrives in a hands-on environment and values the importance of maintaining critical waterway infrastructure. You will work alongside a highly skilled crew in Fountain City, Wisconsin, supporting projects that directly influence national security and the economy.
Job Responsibilities
As a 2nd Mate, your duties are both varied and essential. You will:
- Supervise deck crews in the placement of pontoons, anchors, and swing lines.
- Oversee the safe maneuvering and locking of tows.
- Manage the maintenance and repair of hulls, decks, and cabins.
- Lead the annual overhaul and repair of mechanical systems, including diesel engines.
- Coordinate and plan daily tasks to ensure all materials and equipment are ready for operation.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, you must demonstrate the ability to perform the work without constant supervision. You must hold a U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with a rating of Master of Towing Vessels (Western Rivers). Strong experience with hydraulic dredging and heavy equipment operation is mandatory.
| Feature | Requirement Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Fountain City, Wisconsin |
| License Required | Master of Towing Vessels (Western Rivers) |
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
| Drug Test | Required prior to employment |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive hourly wage ranging from $43.17 to $50.31. Employees enjoy the stability and benefits associated with federal employment, including a collaborative work culture and opportunities for professional advancement within the Transportation and Distribution Management career field.
Application Tips
Your application is the first step toward joining the USACE team. Remember to keep your resume concise—it must not exceed two pages. Explicitly state your work experience, including hours per week, to ensure you meet the qualification standards. Ensure that your USCG license is included in your email submission to prevent immediate disqualification.
Serving as a 2nd Mate with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is more than a job—it is a commitment to maintaining the vital lifelines of our nation's waterways. If you possess the required maritime credentials and a drive for excellence, we encourage you to submit your application and start your journey with us.
Why This 2nd Mate Pld Class I Job Matters
Take the helm of critical river infrastructure: Join the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers as a 2nd Mate and play a vital role in keeping our nation's waterways operational.
2nd Mate Pld Class I Job Overview
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is seeking a skilled professional to serve as a 2nd Mate for the Dredge William L. Goetz. This position is essential for the safe and efficient operation, maintenance, and oversight of dredging equipment and attendant vessels. You will be responsible for leading deck crews, managing navigation, and ensuring all safety procedures are upheld while working in a dynamic, mission-driven environment. This is a Direct Hire Authority role, offering a competitive hourly wage and the opportunity to contribute to significant national public engineering projects.
Requirements for 2nd Mate Pld Class I
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Possession of a valid U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with a minimum rating of Master of Towing Vessels (Western Rivers).
- Ability to demonstrate sufficient knowledge and skills to perform duties without more than normal supervision.
- Must be able to pass a drug test.
- Successful completion of a probationary period may be required.
- Must be able to perform heavy physical tasks, including cleaning, repairing equipment, and managing deck operations.
Preferred Qualifications for 2nd Mate Pld Class I
- Prior experience operating and maintaining heavy construction equipment such as excavators, loaders, and dozers.
- Proven history of leading crews in maritime or construction settings.
- Experience with hydraulic dredging operations and steel/high-density plastic pipeline handling.
- Advanced technical knowledge of diesel engine repair and hull maintenance.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive hourly compensation.
- ✓Opportunities to work with a world-renowned engineering organization.
- ✓Professional growth within the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
- ✓Contribution to national security, economic, and environmental infrastructure projects.
💡 How to Apply 2nd Mate Pld Class I Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for 2nd Mate Pld Class I Job
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
- Ensure your resume explicitly details your experience, hours worked per week, and job titles.
- Collect necessary documentation, including your USCG license/credential.
- Draft an optional cover letter if desired.
- Submit your complete application package via email to the designated contact person by the closing date.
- Verify that all documents are included to avoid being marked as ineligible.
💡 General Tips
- Your resume must clearly map your experience to the duties listed in the announcement; avoid jargon and acronyms.
- Double-check your page count; resumes exceeding two pages will be automatically disqualified.
- Ensure your USCG license is scanned clearly and attached to your email submission.
- Highlight specific experience with dredge operations, anchor management, and heavy equipment to stand out.
- Submit your materials well before the 11:59 PM EST deadline on November 6, 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the official duty station for this role?
The official duty station is the Dredge William L. Goetz, wherever the vessel is currently located.
What specific USCG license do I need?
You must possess at minimum a Master of Towing Vessels (Western Rivers) license.
How should I submit my application?
All application materials must be emailed directly to the contact provided in the announcement; submissions via other methods or incomplete packages will not be considered.
Can I apply if my resume is 3 pages long?
*A: No, resumes exceeding two pages will be removed from consideration.*
Is relocation assistance provided?
*A: No, 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 leading public engineering and construction management agencies. Consistently ranked as one of the best places to work in the federal government, USACE prides itself on a collaborative environment. By joining our team, you are contributing to complex engineering solutions that protect our environment and support the American public.