Third Assistant Engineer, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution

Position Overview

Application Deadline: June 30, 2026

Salary: $39.38 per hour base, with average overtime of 25 hours per week

Education Required: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited sea service academy and one year sea duty as an engineering officer, or equivalent work experience

Description

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution is hiring a full-time Third Assistant Engineer at the Iselin Dock Building Ship Operations in Woods Hole, Massachusetts, starting 30 May 2026, with applications closing 30 June 2026.

WHOI is a leading non-profit dedicated to ocean research, exploration, and education, with scientists and engineers at the forefront of understanding the ocean’s complex interactions with the planet. The Institution operates research vessels including R/V Atlantis (host to the submersible Alvin) and R/V Neil Armstrong.

The Third Assistant Engineer reports to the Chief Engineer and is responsible for proper operation of the main propulsion and ship’s service generators and, during watch, of the main engines; the role also supervises unlicensed watch standers.

Responsibilities

• Check cleaning, lubrication, and routine maintenance of all machinery and electrical equipment.
• Maintain the Launch and Recovery System (LARS) for the Alvin on R/V Atlantis.
• Clean engine room bilges, strainers in the lubricating system, and all water pumps, tanks, and connected systems.
• Ensure safety devices are in proper working condition.
• Assist with supervision, maintenance, and repair of engine room equipment and spaces while in port, including loading fresh water and bunkers.
• Keep a log of all watch operations and conditions, including unusual occurrences and emergency signals.
• Stand engine room watch, supervise the Oiler, and ensure watches are stood properly and orders carried out.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited sea service academy and one year sea duty as an engineering officer, or equivalent work experience.
• Proficiency in diesel engines, electrical maintenance and troubleshooting, hydraulics, reading hydraulic and electrical schematics, HVAC equipment, and air compressors.
• Computer literacy in word processing, inventory and database management, and electronic mail.
• U.S. Coast Guard Third Assistant Engineer license, Motor Vessels (unlimited horsepower required for R/V Neil Armstrong and R/V Atlantis).
• All applicable STCW 95 training and valid U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credentials.
• Unexpired USCG medical certificate (STCW expiration date).
• Ability to pass a DOT pre-employment drug screen.
• Ability to work at least 8 hours per day, at times in excess of 12 hours per day, 7 days per week, at sea for three to five months continuously.
• Ability to live and work in cramped quarters, frequently in bad weather and violent ship motion.
• Pass examinations for visual acuity, colour sense, and hearing per 46 CFR Parts 10 and 12 and a physical evaluation per NVIC 6-89.
• Climb steep and vertical ladders, enter and exit compartments through hatches and doors, and handle weights and equipment over 50 pounds.

Preferred Qualifications

• Third Assistant Engineer experience on similar research vessels.
• Third Assistant Engineer Unlimited Horsepower, Motor Vessels license.

Additional Notes

• Position starts 30 May 2026.
• Annual compensation reflects hourly rate plus 25 hours of overtime per week on average; eligible employees may receive a comprehensive benefits package.
• Hazards include confined areas, fuels and solvents, adverse weather, extreme temperatures, slippery and uneven surfaces, moving parts, constant loud engine room noise, and ship vibration.
• WHOI accepts applications on a rolling basis; early applicants may have an advantage.

How to Apply

Apply through the WHOI Workday careers portal by 30 June 2026.