Job Description
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Portland District, is hiring a Marine Equipment Repairer/Operator (Dual Rate) to serve aboard its hopper dredges, the Yaquina and Essayons.
These specialized sea-going vessels maintain safe navigation channels by dredging ocean bars, rivers, and harbors. As a dual-rate crew member, you will perform both repair and operator duties, ensuring machinery runs reliably during dredging operations.
You will oil and grease all machinery, monitor systems on regular rounds, check bilges, operate bilge pumps, and manage fuel oil transfers.
You will also assist in repairing diesel engines and conduct routine maintenance on propulsion, pumping, auxiliary systems, ventilation, controls, sanitary, and lubrication systems. This role is ideal for experienced marine mechanics who thrive in a hands-on, seagoing environment.
The position offers a collaborative team atmosphere and the chance to support critical waterway infrastructure. Work is performed under the general supervision of the engineer on watch.
You must be comfortable with extended time at sea, as temporary duty travel is required 95% of the time.
Salary & Compensation
Salary / Pay Package: $4,742 per hour.
Qualification
To qualify for this WK-8 position, you must demonstrate the ability to perform the work without more than normal supervision. You must possess a current U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with a Qualified Member of the Engine Department (QMED) Oiler's rating or higher, plus a valid Transportation Worker Identification Card (TWIC).
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Possess a current USCG MMC with QMED Oiler rating or higher.
- Hold a valid Transportation Worker Identification Card (TWIC).
- Ability to do the work of a Marine Equipment Repairer/Operator without more than normal supervision (screen-out element).
- Experience can be paid or unpaid, including volunteer work through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps).
- Resume must be two pages or less and clearly describe relevant experience, including employer name, job title, start/end dates, hours per week, and duties.
- If qualifying based on education, submit transcripts.
- Must pass a pre-employment physical examination and annual exams thereafter.
- Must complete a background investigation and be subject to drug testing.
Role Responsibilities
Oil and grease all machinery aboard the hopper dredge.
- Monitor all machinery on regular rounds, checking bilges and operating bilge pumps.
- Operate manifold switch oil level from one tank to another.
- Assist in making repairs to diesel engines.
- Conduct routine maintenance of diesel propulsion system, pumping and auxiliary systems, ventilation controls, auxiliary engines, automatic control consoles, sanitary and lubrication systems.
- Work under general supervision of the engineer on watch.
- Maintain safety compliance, wear protective gear, and follow sound safety practices.
How to Apply
Open the USAJOBS announcement and with your USAJOBS/Login.gov account.
- Complete the online federal application questionnaire.
- Attach your federal resume (two pages or less) and required documents, including your USCG MMC and TWIC.
- Verify your application package is complete and submit by 11:59 PM (EST) on October 15, 2026.
Additional Information
This is a Standing Register (Open Continuous) announcement using Direct Hire Authority 5 U.S.C. 9905.
- Initial cut-off for referral consideration is October 30, 2025; applications after that date will be considered as vacancies arise.
- This position is dual-rated to Junior Engineer, WK-4742-10, if you possess appropriate USCG license/certification.
- Temporary duty (TDY) or business travel is required 95% of the time.
- Subject to a one-year probationary period.
- Must lift up to 45 pounds regularly, and occasionally over 45 pounds.
- Work involves exposure to extreme weather, heat, noise, slippery decks, and hazardous materials; must wear safety gear.
About Company
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is a federal agency under the Department of Defense responsible for delivering vital public and military engineering services. The Portland District operates hopper dredges that keep Pacific Northwest waterways navigable for commercial and recreational vessels. USACE offers challenging careers in a public service environment, with opportunities for hands-on technical work and professional growth. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is named as the hiring organisation for the Marine Equipment Repairer/Operator (Dual Rate) post.
FAQs
What are the minimum qualifications for the Marine Equipment Repairer/Operator position in Portland?
You must be a U.S. Citizen, possess a current USCG MMC with QMED Oiler rating or higher, and hold a valid TWIC.
Where is this U.S. Army Corps of Engineers job located?
The position is based in Portland, Oregon, and work is performed aboard hopper dredges operating in the Portland District.
How do I apply for the Marine Equipment Repairer/Operator job on USAJOBS?
Apply through USAJOBS by signing in, completing the online questionnaire, attaching your resume and required documents, and submitting before the deadline.
What is the deadline to apply for this WK-8 position?
The application deadline is October 15, 2026, at 11:59 PM EST.
What documents are required for the Marine Equipment Repairer/Operator application?
You need a federal resume (two pages or less), your USCG MMC, TWIC, and any transcripts if using education to qualify.
Is this a full-time position with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers?
Yes, this is a full-time position at grade WK-8.
What is the work environment like aboard a hopper dredge?
You will work in extreme weather, heat, and noise, with hazards like slippery decks and drowning risk. Safety gear is required.
Does this position require travel?
Yes, temporary duty travel is required 95% of the time.