Marine/Maritime Assistant Engineer

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

Job summary

GovFirst in Virginia is seeking a qualified Marine/Maritime Assistant Engineer to support ferry operations at the Jamestown-Scotland Ferry. The role includes operating and maintaining ferry vessels, ensuring compliance with safety standards and U.S. Coast Guard regulations.

The ideal candidate will have at least five years of marine engineering experience and must possess a valid Merchant Mariner Credential. Strong communication skills and a focus on safety are essential for this role.

Qualifications

• Minimum of five (5) years of marine engineering or vessel machinery experience.
• Knowledge of U.S. Coast Guard regulations governing ferry operations.
• Ability to read and interpret gauges, engineering schematics, and technical manuals.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor main engines, auxiliary machinery, and vessel systems.
• Perform routine inspections, preventive maintenance, and minor repairs.
• Maintain vessel readiness for U.S. Coast Guard inspections.

Skills

Marine engineering

Vessel machinery operation

Troubleshooting and repair

Recordkeeping and documentation

Communication skills

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)

Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC)

Tools

Hand tools

Power tools

Job description

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

Job Title: Marine/Maritime Assistant Engineer

Location: Surry, VA

Employment Type: Full-Time (W2)

GovFirst is seeking a qualified and safety-focused Marine/Maritime Assistant 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 and efficient 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

• 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.
• 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 in a professional manner.
• 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.
• Knowledge of U.S. Coast Guard regulations governing ferry operations.
• Ability to diagnose, troubleshoot, and repair primary and auxiliary vessel 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.
• Strong 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.
• Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) required.
• Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) endorsed as Assistant Engineer for motor vessels of at least 3,000 HP 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 required.
• 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.