ENGINE ROOM ASSISTANT 

Casual

Salt Spring Island

The Opportunity 

We are seeking a self-starter and a positive team player who provides essential vessel safety and operational expertise.  

Reporting to the 1st Engineer, Engine Room Assistants are responsible for:  

• Monitoring machinery including maintaining oil and water levels; checking temperatures and pressures of main and auxiliary engines, gear boxes, compressors and winches; ensuring operation of boilers; handling chemicals for testing; monitoring all pumps; relieving the watch; and doing rounds. Communicating in person and or by radio with ships’ officers and ticketing staff 

• Performing general housekeeping including cleaning of all shipboard machinery, bilges and spaces; prepping and painting machinery and engine room spaces; removing garbage; and polishing brass fixtures 

• Assisting the Engineers with maintenance work including oil and filter changes, engine adjustments, steering gear checks, and leg alignments; starting main engines and auxiliaries; taking lube and fuel oil samples; and assisting with major overhauls and refits 

• Performing daily work routine including taking fuel soundings; pumping dirty oil tanks; assisting in receiving fuel on board; checking void spaces; and cleaning oil strainers 

• Performing safety checks; ensuring emergency systems are in order; participating in emergency and safety drills; attending safety meetings; receiving stores; and repairing equipment defects in other departments 

What you bring to the team 

This position requires Marine Emergency duties training – STCW Basic Safety (MED A1 and MED B2) and Proficiency in Survival Craft (MED B1). You have an ability to prioritize and complete tasks in a safe and timely manner while monitoring and maintaining mechanical, electrical, and propulsion systems.   

A mechanical background including formal training and/or a Transport Canada Engine Room Rating certificate is considered an asset. Preference will be given to those with a 4th Class Motor Certificate. 

Join us! 

If this sounds like your next great career move, please submit your cover letter and resume by July 15, 2026.

*Please ensure to upload any relevant certificates you currently hold during the application process.

"We sail to serve and connect the people and the coast of BC”  

At BC Ferries, our people are at the heart of delivering safe and reliable service along 1,600 km of coastline. Every day, we connect communities and move tens of thousands of passengers and vehicles across our 25 routes through the dedication, expertise and hard work of our teams. Guided by a shared commitment to safety, service, inclusion, and local commitment, we offer meaningful work, opportunities for growth, and the chance to make a positive impact. Whether you work onboard our vessels, in our terminals or behind the scenes, you'll play an important role in connecting people, supporting communities, and keeping coastal BC moving. 

We support employment equity and diversity in the workplace and we encourage applications from all qualified individuals including women, visible minorities, Indigenous Peoples, persons with disabilities, persons of diverse sexual orientation, gender identity or expression (LGBTQ2S+), and others who reflect our ever-changing workplace. 

We appreciate the interest of all applicants; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.