5-7 years engineering experience at sea, preferably as Chief Engineer.
2-3 years shipyard repair experience.
Proficient with ABS - Sub M rules and regulations.
Experience in port engineering within the maritime industry is essential.
Strong verbal and written communication skills.
Capable of problem-solving with a results-oriented approach.
Physical ability to lift and carry heavy items (up to 75 lbs).
Responsibilities
Ensure vessel engineers are well trained and compliant with regulations.
Respond promptly to discrepancies and deficiencies.
Oversee maintenance and refurbishments of the fleet efficiently.
Develop specifications for dry-docking and vendor proposals in coordination with the VP of Engineering.
Monitor contractors and shipyards during repair projects.
Conduct on-site surveys to assess vessel needs for maintenance.
Make repair recommendations to the VP of Engineering.
Benefits
Full-time position with stability in a maritime environment.
Opportunities for professional development and training.
Travel opportunities that may enhance maritime experience.
Experience in a collaborative and regulated work environment.
Full Job Description
Job Type
Full-time
Description
The Port Engineer is responsible for the technical management, maintenance oversight, and operational readiness of a fleet of oceangoing and inland tugboats. This role blends hands-on troubleshooting with planning, contractor coordination, and shipyard project management. The Port Engineer will support vessels across multiple ports, respond to emergent issues, and ensure the fleet operates safely, efficiently, and in compliance with company and regulatory standards.
This is a remote position with a rotating on-call schedule shared among four Port Engineers.
Key Responsibilities
Fleet Maintenance & Technical Support
Oversee the maintenance, repair, and operational condition of all assigned tugboats.
Troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and electronic control issues as they occur.
Manage preventative maintenance schedules for all vessels.
Conduct repairs within personal skill level; coordinate contractors for specialized or major repairs.
Support vessels equipped with a wide range of propulsion and generator systems, including:
Main Engines: EMD, Caterpillar, Cummins, Wabtec, Mitsubishi, Alco
Generators: Detroit Diesel, John Deere, Cummins, Caterpillar
Work with both pneumatic and electronic engine control systems.
Oversee maintenance and troubleshooting of pneumatic and hydraulic reduction gears
Inspect, troubleshoot, and repair direct drive and hydraulic towing machines.
Operational Support
Travel to vessels as needed to support emergent repairs, inspections, and operational issues.
Provide technical guidance to vessel crews and assist with troubleshooting remotely when possible.
Ensure vessels maintain compliance with company standards, USCG regulations, and class requirements.
Shipyard & Project Management
Lead and manage scheduled shipyard periods, including:
Scope development
Contractor oversight
Budget tracking
Quality assurance
Daily progress monitoring
Remain onsite for the duration of major shipyard periods (typically 30 days).
Documentation & Reporting
Complete detailed Port Engineering Reports for all major repairs, emergent issues, and shipyard periods.
Submit reports to upper management, including summaries of work performed, costs, delays, and recommendations.
Maintain accurate maintenance records, service logs, and equipment histories.
Review and approve repair invoices, parts orders, and contractor documentation.
Requirements
Qualifications
Required
Strong background in diesel mechanics, including medium-speed and high-speed marine engines.
Proficiency in electrical systems, pneumatics, hydraulics, electronics, and control systems.
Experience with welding and fabrication for marine applications.
Solid understanding of general seamanship, vessel operations, and marine safety practices.
Hands-on experience with vessel repairs, troubleshooting, and maintenance planning.
Ability to read and interpret technical manuals, schematics, and engineering drawings.
Strong organizational and communication skills.
Willingness to travel frequently and stay overnight as required.
Preferred
Prior experience as a Port Engineer, Chief Engineer, ABS inspector or shoreside maintenance manager.
Experience with pneumatic control systems and hydraulic gear systems.
Shipyard project management experience.
Familiarity with ABS, USCG, and other regulatory frameworks.
Physical Requirements
Ability to work in confined spaces, machinery spaces, and other restricted areas.
Ability to work in elevated areas, including accessing stacks, masts, and upper deck structures.
Ability to lift parts, tools, and supplies as required for vessel maintenance.
Ability to climb ladders, gangways, and vertical access points aboard vessels and in shipyards.
Comfortable working in industrial environments with heat, noise, and moving machinery.
Work Environment & Expectations
Remote work with significant autonomy and responsibility.
Company vehicle provided for travel to vessels and shipyards.
Must be able to respond to vessel needs during on-call weeks.
Hands-on work in industrial and marine environments, including confined spaces and elevated areas.
Position Type: Full-Time, Remote.
Schedule: Rotating On-Call (1 week on / 3 weeks off).
Travel: Required during shipyard periods and as operational needs dictate. A company vehicle is provided.
