Chief Engineer

Position Summary

The Chief Engineer is responsible for the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of all vessel engineering systems. This role provides leadership for the engineering department, ensuring the reliability and maintenance of propulsion, auxiliary machinery, electrical systems, and critical equipment while maintaining compliance with applicable regulatory, client, and industry standards. The Chief Engineer works closely with the vessel Master and shoreside management to support safe and efficient vessel operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct and oversee the operation, maintenance, and repair of all vessel machinery and engineering systems.
• Ensure compliance with applicable flag state, class, company, and client requirements.
• Maintain vessel readiness through planned maintenance, inspections, and preventative maintenance programs.
• Supervise, mentor, and evaluate engineering department personnel.
• Manage engineering budgets, inventories, spare parts, and consumable supplies.
• Ensure all engineering activities are conducted in accordance with company Safety Management System (SMS) policies and procedures.
• Coordinate with vessel management during audits, inspections, and client assurance activities.
• Maintain accurate engineering logs, maintenance records, and regulatory documentation.
• Support emergency response and troubleshooting efforts to minimize operational downtime.
• Promote a culture of safety, environmental stewardship, and continuous improvement.

Minimum Qualifications

Qualified candidates must possess the following:

• Current or previous Chief Engineer Limited Engineering License or 3,000 Gross Ton Master License (or equivalent international certification).
• Unlimited Dynamic Positioning Operator (DPO) Certificate (required for deck officer candidates only).
• Demonstrated familiarity with current International Marine Contractors Association (IMCA) and Marine Technology Society (MTS) guidelines related to marine assurance.
• Current HUET (Helicopter Underwater Escape Training) certification.
• Current SafeGulf certification.
• Valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
• Valid passport with the ability to travel internationally.

Preferred Qualifications

The following certifications and experience are highly desirable:

• Current OCIMF OVID Inspector Accreditation.
• Current IMCA eCMID Inspector Accreditation.
• Previous experience supporting offshore marine operations.
• Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
• Experience participating in vessel inspections, audits, and assurance programs.
• Knowledge of planned maintenance systems and computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS).

Core Competencies

• Engineering leadership and personnel management
• Regulatory compliance and marine assurance
• Preventative maintenance and equipment reliability
• Safety and environmental compliance
• Critical thinking and problem-solving
• Effective communication and teamwork
• Operational planning and resource management

Physical Requirements

• Ability to meet all applicable offshore medical fitness requirements.
• Ability to work extended rotations offshore in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to perform duties in confined spaces, machinery spaces, and other demanding marine environments.
• Ability to lift, carry, and move equipment as required.