Assistant Engineer

ABOUT UNCRUISE ADVENTURES

We are a small-ship adventure-based travel company dedicated to creating experiences that connect people with nature, wildlife, and local cultures - we kayak among icebergs, travel to hidden waterfalls, and share air with whales. Every team member plays a role in bringing the adventure to life. Operating seven vessels carrying 22 to 86 guests, we explore destinations, including Alaska, Hawaii, Baja California, and Costa Rica.

CREW PERKS

• Room and board when scheduled
• Rotation schedule (6-8 weeks sailing with 2-3 weeks off)
• Travel stipend
• Pro deals
• Credential reimbursement (qualifications required)
• Heath care benefits (once qualifications are met)

JOB SUMMARY

This position begins in shipyard (Seattle, WA) over the winter months prior to the Summer 2026 Alaska Sailing Season. 

The Assistant Engineer is responsible for assisting the Chief Engineer in the maintenance, operation, and repair of all vessel systems onboard. The Assistant Engineer reports to the Chief Engineer.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Working knowledge of diesel propulsion and electrical generation systems. Knowledge of support systems such as fuel centrifuges, air compressors, pumps, hydraulics, water makers, hotel systems, plumbing, refrigeration, heating, and air conditioning.
• Computer experience: Microsoft programs Excel, Word, and SharePoint are required. 
• Maintain professional demeanor at all times.
• Must be a self-starter, able to handle multiple tasks, work with little supervision, and work in confined spaces.
• Crisis management: work well under pressure, act quickly and decisively using sound judgment.

Required Certificates, Licenses, Registrations

• Government ID (REAL ID compliant) or Passport
• CPR / First Aid / AED 

Repair and Maintenance:

• Perform routine maintenance checks and keeps records of jobs performed. Keeps the Chief Engineer informed of all maintenance and repairs that have been done.
• Help with engineering, deck, and hotel preventative maintenance programs on daily, weekly, and monthly basis.
• Complete maintenance and repair tasks as requested by Chief Engineer or Master.
• Perform hotel maintenance tasks as directed by Chief Engineer or Master.
• Participate in yearly shipyards.
• Assist Chief Engineer in all operations and duties as assigned by the Chief Engineer.

Administrative:

• Update vessel maintenance records for weekly and monthly work items. Assists the Chief Engineer with inventories.

Safety and Security:

• Follow company safety and pollution prevention policies and procedures.
• Assist in the preparation of the vessel for all U.S. Coast Guard annual dry docks and other inspections.
• Participate in shore side training as required by the company.  
• Familiar with all duties under the company Safety Management System including Emergency Response Activities.

Communication Skills:

The Assistant Engineer will interact with our passengers daily and must be professional and engaging at all times. Must be able to interpret maritime technical literature and governmental regulations. Must be able to verbalize and write technical information clearly and precisely.

WORK SCHEDULE

During shipyard and dockside maintenance periods, works hours are assigned by the vessel Master or Chief Engineer; these are typically Monday to Friday, 0700-1530. All crew members work 12 hours per day during the sailing season.

EMPLOYMENT COMPLIANCE

• DOT Drug Testing - In compliance with USCG regulations, must pass a pre-employment drug test and additional in-season testing per federal guidelines.
• Allergens - This position requires working with and/or being around raw and cooked shellfish, cleaning chemicals and other known allergens.
• Medical Review - A medical review is required. Must be medically fit to work onboard for safety and compliance.

ONBOARD ENVIRONMENT / PHYSICAL DEMANDS 

• Shared Living Quarters - Crew live in close quarters with 4 to 8 people of all genders per room depending on the vessel. Having your own room is not an option due to limited berthing.
• Length of Work Shift - Physically able to work 12 hours per day, 7 days a week for 6 to 8 weeks at a time. Rotations off the vessel are usually 2 to 3 weeks.
• Mobility - Frequent bending, reaching, twisting, kneeling, crawling, and pushing/pulling. Must ascend and descend stairs and ladders, sometimes while carrying tools or objects. Able to stand or sit for long periods of time.
• Handling & Strength - Able to handle, lift, and lower objects totaling 50 pounds between the ground/deck level to a height of about 4 to 6 feet, and able to repeat these movements. Able to carry these objects up to 100 feet continuously for 20 minutes.
• Environmental Conditions - Able to work in all weather conditions, around loud noise, in small spaces, and fit through a 28-inch wide hatch.

BASE PAY

• $141 - $165 / day based on vessel and experience as determined by the company + $70 tip guarantee. 

DISCLAIMER STATEMENT   

This job description is intended only to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by an employee in this position. It is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills or abilities required or persons so classified or assigned. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

It is the policy of UnCruise Adventures not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, creed, religion, marital status, citizenship, the presence of any sensory, mental, or physical disability, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, ancestry, national origin, or veteran status in its educational programs, activities, or employment as required by law.