First Assistant Engineer
Job Summary
We are seeking an experienced First Assistant Engineer to support the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of passenger vessels based in Cape May, New Jersey. In this role, you will oversee vessel machinery and equipment operations, stand engine room watches, maintain accurate engineering logs, identify and report mechanical issues, and assist with maintenance and repairs while underway. This position reports to the Chief Engineer for engine room responsibilities and supports shoreside engineering and shipyard activities as needed.
Responsibilities
- Stand engine room watches and monitor machinery, equipment, temperatures, pressures, and operating conditions.
- Maintain accurate engine room logbook entries.
- Identify machinery abnormalities and immediately report operational or mechanical concerns to the Chief Engineer.
- Assist with troubleshooting, maintenance, and repair of mechanical and electrical systems.
- Operate main engines, generators, pumps, and other auxiliary machinery as required.
- Perform bilge and sewage pumping operations and assist with fuel, water, and lubricant transfers.
- Perform engineering duties required during vessel lay-up periods.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe engine room.
- Perform night engineer duties as assigned.
- Support emergency response duties and assume assigned responsibilities involving lifeboats or life rafts.
- Assist the Port Engineer with shipyard projects and vessel maintenance activities.
- Represent shoreside engineering management at remote shipyard locations when required.
- Complete special maintenance and engineering projects as assigned.
- Follow all applicable vessel safety procedures, operating requirements, and regulatory standards.
Requirements
- U.S. Citizenship required.
- Must be at least 21 years of age.
- Valid TWIC.
- Valid driver’s license.
- Must meet one of the following USCG licensing requirements:
- Valid USCG First Assistant Engineer License – 4,000 HP, Motor (Limited); or
- Valid USCG Second Assistant Engineer License – 4,000 HP, Motor (Limited) with at least 300 days of qualifying sea service; or
- Valid USCG Third Assistant Engineer License – 4,000 HP, Motor (Limited) with at least 660 days of qualifying sea service.
- Must be able to obtain a USCG Chief Engineer License – 4,000 HP, Motor (Limited) within 120 days of employment.
- Ability to successfully complete required pre-employment physical, background investigation, and drug screening.
- Must comply with applicable federal drug-testing requirements.
- Willingness and availability to work days, nights, weekends, holidays, and other schedules necessary to support continuous vessel operations.
- Strong marine engineering and mechanical troubleshooting capabilities.
- Ability to diagnose machinery malfunctions and recommend appropriate corrective actions.
- Knowledge of diesel engines, generators, pumps, auxiliary machinery, and vessel mechanical systems.
- Working knowledge of marine electrical systems.
- Ability to read and interpret blueprints, technical manuals, and machinery documentation.
- Proficiency with mechanical and electrical testing instruments, hand tools, and power tools.