Designated Duty Engineer

GovFirst; Virginia (MN); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

GovFirst is looking for a qualified Designated Duty Engineer to support ferry operations at the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry in Surry, VA. This role involves operating, monitoring, maintaining, and repairing ferry machinery to ensure safety and compliance with U.S. Coast Guard regulations.

The ideal candidate will have at least five years of marine engineering experience and hold a valid Merchant Mariner Credential. Strong communication and documentation skills are essential for this position.

Qualifications

• Minimum of five (5) years of marine engineering or vessel machinery experience.
• Thorough knowledge of U.S. Coast Guard regulations governing ferry operations.
• Ability to train and mentor vessel crew members.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor main engines and auxiliary machinery.
• Perform preventive maintenance and minor repairs.
• Support emergency operations and report safety concerns.

Skills

Marine engineering experience

Vessel machinery operation

Troubleshooting skills

Effective communication skills

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Merchant Mariner Credential (DDE)

First Aid and CPR certifications

Tools

Hand tools

Power tools

Job description

Surry, United States | Posted on 06/29/2026

GovFirst is seeking a qualified and experienced Designated Duty Engineer to support ferry operations at the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry in Surry, VA. This position is responsible for operating, monitoring, maintaining, and repairing main engines and auxiliary machinery to ensure the safe operation of ferry vessels while protecting passengers, crew members, and equipment. The successful candidate will also support vessel security, emergency response, regulatory compliance, and engineering documentation.

Responsibilities

Vessel Machinery Operations & Maintenance

• Operate and monitor main engines, auxiliary machinery, and vessel systems in accordance with U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) regulations, VDOT policies, and accepted marine engineering practices.
• Perform routine inspections, preventive maintenance, and minor repairs on vessel machinery and mechanical systems.
• Diagnose equipment deficiencies and promptly notify the Captain of any mechanical or operational concerns.
• Maintain vessel readiness for U.S. Coast Guard inspections and regulatory compliance.
• Assist with troubleshooting and repair of primary and auxiliary vessel systems.
• Record and document daily fuel readings and machinery operating data.
• Maintain accurate engineering logs, maintenance records, machinery usage reports, and other required documentation.
• Submit engineering reports and operational records according to established schedules.
• Maintain documentation supporting preventive maintenance and equipment performance.

Vessel Safety, Security & Emergency Response

• Participate in required emergency drills and crew training exercises.
• Maintain readiness to respond to mechanical failures and onboard emergencies.
• Monitor vessel security and remain alert to suspicious behavior or security violations.
• Ensure engine room security doors and restricted-access compartments remain secured.
• Report all safety, security, and operational concerns promptly.
• Support emergency operations outside normal working hours when required, as VDOT serves as an emergency response agency.
• Provide information and assistance to passengers professionally.
• Resolve passenger concerns courteously and efficiently.
• Assist crew members with vessel operations and engineering-related activities.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by supervisors or the USF Senior Project Manager.

Requirements

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of five (5) years of marine engineering or vessel machinery experience.
• Knowledge of operating and monitoring main engines and auxiliary machinery aboard ferry vessels.
• Experience working aboard vessels of at least 200 feet and approximately 800 tons.
• Thorough knowledge of U.S. Coast Guard regulations governing ferry operations.
• Ability to diagnose, troubleshoot, and repair marine propulsion and auxiliary systems.
• Ability to read and interpret gauges, engineering schematics, technical manuals, and mechanical drawings.
• Strong recordkeeping and documentation skills.
• Ability to train and mentor vessel crew members.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in the safe use of hand tools and power tools.

Required Education & Credentials

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Minimum Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) endorsed as Designated Duty Engineer (DDE) – Motor Vessels of at least 3,000 HP.
• Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) required.
• Ability to obtain and maintain First Aid and CPR certifications.

Required Work Authorization

Must be a U.S. Citizen.

Required Licenses, Certifications & Screening

• Valid Virginia Driver's License in good standing.
• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Fingerprint-based Criminal History Records Check (CHRC) required.

GovFirst is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race or ethnicity, religion, sex, national origin, age, veteran disability or genetic information or any other reason prohibited by law in employment.