Third Assistant Engineer - 139101

Payroll Title:

THIRD ENGR AST Department:

NIMITZ MARINE FACIL Pay Range

Commensurate with Experience Worksite:

Various Appointment Type:

Career Appointment Percent:

100% Union:

B6 Contract Total Openings:

1 Work Schedule:

Variable, Variable at Sea, Variable at Sea

#139101 Third Assistant Engineer

Filing Deadline: Mon 4/27/2026

Apply Now

UC San Diego values and welcomes people from all backgrounds. If you are interested in being part of our team, possess the needed licensure and certifications, and feel that you have most of the qualifications and/or transferable skills for a job opening, we strongly encourage you to apply.

UCSD Layoff from Career Appointment: Apply by 4/16/2026 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 ABILITY TO WORK AT SEA TYPICALLY 8-12 WEEKS AT A TIME.

DEPARTMENT DESCRIPTION

Scripps Institution of Oceanography (SIO) at UC San Diego is one of the world’s leading centers for ocean and earth science research, education, and public service. Scripps operates three state-of-the-art research vessels that support scientists from around the globe. Our ships conduct missions ranging from local coastal studies to multi-year international expeditions, helping advance knowledge of the ocean, atmosphere, and earth systems.

POSITION OVERVIEW

Scripps is seeking a Third Assistant Engineer to join our seagoing team. This role is critical to maintaining the safe and efficient operation of the vessel’s engineering systems both at sea and in port. The 3rd AE operates and maintains main and auxiliary machinery, stands watch, and supports all aspects of engine room operations while contributing to the success of scientific missions. Working under direct supervision, the 3rd AE performs routine maintenance and minor repairs, maintains detailed operational logs, and provides work direction to Oilers, Wipers, and unlicensed personnel. This position offers the opportunity to work with advanced marine technology while supporting groundbreaking oceanographic research around the world.

Key Responsibilities

Engineering Operations & Maintenance

Operate, monitor, and maintain main and auxiliary engine room machinery and equipment. Perform routine servicing and minor repairs, and support maintenance of deck and scientific equipment as needed. Maintain and oversee systems including marine sanitation devices, sewage systems, oily water separators, bilge systems, air compressors, and associated components. Keep senior engineering staff informed of issues and work progress.WatchstandingStand assigned underway engine room watches and in-port security watches. Maintain accurate logs of all machinery operations and assist in training crew members in proper watchstanding procedures.

Team Support & Leadership

Provide day-to-day work direction to Oilers, Wipers, and unlicensed day workers to ensure proper operation, maintenance, and cleanliness of engineering spaces.Vessel Operations Support Assist with loading stores and parts, bunkering operations, and general vessel readiness. Participate in mobilization and demobilization efforts and support emergency response procedures as directed by senior officers.

Compliance & Safety

Comply with and actively support the vessel’s Safety Management System and all applicable university, state, federal, and international regulations. Maintain required logs, records, and inventory of engineering consumables and parts. Keep all credentials current and complete required training.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Proficiency in the proper operation and maintenance of diesel engines for propulsion and auxiliary power and related shipboard equipment and systems.
• Proficiency in the operation and maintenance of ancillary engine room equipment and systems (including water makers, sewage treatment plant, fuel / oil transfer and purification system, ballast system, HVAC, electrical, etc.).
• Demonstrated seamanship skills (knots, line-handling, general shipboard maintenance and care, preparation / preservation of steel surfaces, operation of deck equipment, winches, etc.).
• Demonstrated knowledge of university, state, federal and international maritime practices for ship operation and maintenance.
• Demonstrated knowledge of federal regulations relevant to maritime operations.
• Demonstrated 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.
• Demonstrated computer skills with good working knowledge of word processing and spreadsheet applications.
• Demonstrated ability to interpret and use technical drawings and documentation.
• Demonstrated basic math skills
• Demonstrated critical thinking skills using logic and reasoning to identify the stre