First Assistant Engineer

Job Summary

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution is currently searching for a First Assistant Engineer for R/V Atlantis in December 2026. Reporting to the Chief Engineer and assisting with duties; is responsible for the proper operation, maintenance, and safety of all engine department machinery, equipment, and spaces; for the conduct and performance of engine personnel; and for economical use of consumable supplies and stores.

Job Description

Plans, assigns, and supervises work of engine department personnel; assists the Chief Engineer in planning maintenance and repair schedules with regard to ship's schedule ensuring periodic machine inspections and major repairs are accomplished in port. Reports condition of engine department equipment, machinery, and personnel; unusual developments; and repair progress. Maintains a machinery log of repair dates, spare parts, and consumable supplies. Monitors engine department, stores and prepares requisitions. Maintains HVAC systems, checks refrigeration plant, and ensures safety devices are in proper working condition. Stands engine room watch, supervises Oiler, and ensures watches are stood properly and orders carried out. Keeps a log of all watch operations and conditions, including unusual occurrences and emergency signals. Supervises and assists, while in port, with maintenance and repair of engine room equipment and spaces, and in loading freshwater bunkers. Proficiency in the following: Diesel engines, electrical maintenance and troubleshooting, electronics, hydraulics, reading of both hydraulic and electrical schematics, HVAC equipment, and air compressors. Performs other duties as required.

Bachelor's degree from an accredited sea service academy and four years’ sea duty as an engineering officer; in the absence of a formal degree, equivalent work experience.

Candidates must possess computer literacy in the use of word-processing, inventory and database management, ship's stability, and electronic mail programs. Prefer First Assistant Engineer experience on similar research vessel. 

Candidates must have a high level of training as evidenced by a U.S. Coast Guard license, preferable First Assistant Engineering Unlimited Horsepower, Motor Vessels. Minimum licensing for R/V Neil Armstrong and R/V Atlantis requires an unlimited Horsepower, Motor Vessels, Oceans. In addition to the above, all licensed officers must have all applicable training as required by the Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW 95) and possess a valid U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariners Credential and Transportation Workers Identification Credential (TWIC) and hold an unexpired Passport. Candidates must have good communication and personnel management skills, and in-depth understanding of the proper operation and maintenance of ship's engines and related equipment, and demonstrate good safety practices and procedures. Must be able to pass a DOT Pre-employment drug screen. Must hold an Unexpired (STCW Expiration date) USCG med Certificate.

Additional Job Requirements

Hourly Rate $57.87: The hourly rate provided for this position reflects the set base pay for new hires. Annual compensation will be based on this hourly rate and the number of hours worked, in accordance with applicable wage and hour laws. In addition to hourly pay, eligible employees may also receive a comprehensive benefits package.

All marine positions have essential functions that personnel must be able to perform, minimum physical capacities and requirements that all personnel must meet, and working conditions that may be considered hazardous. Working at least 8 hours per day and, at times in excess of 12 hours per day, 7 days per week. Work at sea for three to five months continuously. Live and work in cramped quarters, frequently in bad weather and with violent ship motion. Pass examinations for visual acuity, color sense, and hearing as established in Title 46 CFR Parts 10 and 12, and pass a physical evaluation as described in the enclosed Navigation and Vessel Inspection Articles 6-89. Climb steep and vertical ladders, and enter and exit compartments through hatches, doors, and sills up to two feet high. Participate in emergency drills and in launching lifeboats and life rafts. Perform physical labor, climb and handle moderate weights and equipment over 50 pounds.  Physical Capability Example of Essential Function Balance Work in confined and unstable areas. Bend, kneel, squat Clean, maintain, and inspect equipment. Climb Reach work areas, equipment and stores by ladder and stairs. Crawl Crawl through bilge pockets, and under ladders and winch beds. Feel Touch objects: where sight is limited. Finger Manipulate nuts, bolts, tools, and cleaning gear. Handle Handle equipment and stores with sure grip. Hear, talk Communicate with people. Lift, carry Load stores over 50 pounds. Push, pull Move equipment over 50 pounds. Reach Up, over, and under equipment and stores. See Read labels, menus, logs, charts, and gauges in poor lighting. Sit Operate crane, Avon, lifeboat, and life raft. Stand Work on equipment. Walk Perform rounds at sea. Write Maintain logs. Work Condition Example of Hazardous Area/Duty Confined areas Store rooms, engine spaces, and tanks Potential allergens and irritants Fuels, solvents, cleaners, dust, fumes, smoke, and gases Adverse weather On deck in rough seas during equipment maintenance Extreme temperatures On deck in tropics and high latitudes; in engine room Potential hazards Being at sea; slippery and uneven surfaces; moving parts and objects; climbing ladders; and working aloft Noise Constant and loud engine room noise, blowers, exhaust fans Schedule Protracted and irregular working hours Vibrations Ship's engines and chipping hammer.

WHOI accepts applications on a rolling basis - applications will be reviewed as they are received, and we encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible to ensure full consideration. While we will continue to review applications until the position is filled, and early applicants may have an advantage in the selection process.

EEO Statement

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. 

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.