First Assistant Engineer

UCSD Layoff from Career Appointment : Apply by 05/08/2026 for consideration with preference for rehire. All layoff applicants should contact their Employment Advisor.

Reassignment Applicants : Eligible Reassignment clients should contact their Disability Counselor for assistance.

THIS POSITION REQUIRES A VALID U.S. PASSPORT AND WILLINGNESS TO WORK AT SEA 8-12 WEEKS AT A TIME.

DESCRIPTION

We're seeking a skilled and experienced First Assistant Engineer to join our team on one of our research vessels. As a key member of the crew, you'll be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of engine room machinery and equipment. Our research vessels are unlike other ships - they're equipped with state-of-the-art technology and instruments, and are crewed by a diverse team of scientists, engineers, and mariners who are passionate about exploring the world's oceans.

Scripps Institution of Oceanography (SIO) is one of the world's premier oceanographic research institutions. For over a century, SIO has been at the forefront of oceanographic research, education, and public service. Our mission is to seek, teach, and communicate scientific knowledge of the oceans, atmosphere, and Earth, and to use this knowledge to understand and address the challenges facing our planet.

Working on a research vessel is a unique and rewarding experience. You'll have the opportunity to travel to remote locations, work on cutting-edge scientific projects, and be part of a close-knit community of professionals who are dedicated to advancing our understanding of the ocean. Our vessels are designed to support a wide range of scientific research, from studying the ocean's ecosystems to exploring the seafloor. As a member of the crew, you'll play a critical role in supporting the scientific mission of the vessel and ensuring the success of our research expeditions.

Key Responsibilities:

* Operate and maintain engine room machinery and equipment

* Stand underway watches and security watches in port

* Maintain specialized fuel and water systems

* Provide work direction for other Marine Engineering staff

* Assist with loading stores and bunkering the ship

* Perform other duties as defined by a ship's senior officer during emergency situations

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent education and work experience.

• In-depth knowledge of proper operation and maintenance of diesel engines for propulsion and auxiliary power and related shipboard equipment and systems.

• Advanced experience with engineering department machines and tools.

• In-depth knowledge of university, state, federal and international maritime practices for ship operation and maintenance.

• In-depth knowledge of federal regulations relevant to maritime operations.

• Advanced interpersonal and communication skills, oral and written, to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with diverse groups, and to provide work direction to junior crew.

• Advanced computer skills with good working knowledge of word processing and spreadsheet applications.

• Advanced ability to interpret and use technical drawings and documentation.

• Advanced math skills

• Advanced seamanship skills (knots, line-handling, general shipboard maintenance and care, preparation / preservation of steel surfaces, operation of deck equipment, winches, etc.).

• Advanced critical thinking skills using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.

• In-depth knowledge of company / vessels safety management plans.

• Verbal and written command of the English language.

• Demonstrated skills operating, maintaining, and repairing engineering systems and emergency equipment.

SPECIAL CONDITIONS

• U.S. Coast Guard First Assistant Engineer license for related vessel

• U.S. Coast Guard Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW95) and lifeboat endorsement

• Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) issued by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

• Vessel Personnel with Designated Security Duties (VPDSD)

• U.S. Passport

• Ability to pass physical examination and U.S. Coast Guard (DOT) regulations for Chemical Drug and Alcohol pre-employment screening and post-employment random testing

Pay Transparency Act

Annual Full Pay Range: $111,082 - $161,820 (will be prorated if the appointment percentage is less than 100%)

Hourly Equivalent: $53.20 - $77.50

Factors in determining the appropriate compensation for a role include experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. The Hiring Pay Scale referenced in the job posting is the budgeted salary or hourly range that the University reasonably expects to pay for this position. The Annual Full Pay Range may be broader than what the University anticipates to pay for this position, based on internal equity, budget, and collective bargaining agreements (when applicable).