CHIEF ENGINEER

NMDC Careers; United Arab Emirates; On-site; AED 420,000 - 540,000; Full time

Job summary

NMDC Group is seeking a Chief Engineer for a self-propelled cutter suction dredger in the United Arab Emirates. The ideal candidate will lead the engine department, oversee all machinery and propulsion systems, and ensure compliance with international maritime regulations and company safety standards.

Responsibilities include preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, and coordinating major repairs with shore teams, while promoting a strong safety culture and environmental stewardship onboard.

Qualifications

• Certificate of Competency as Chief Engineer required.
• Basic & advanced STCW training certificates required.
• Medical fitness certificate per ILO/MLC requirements.
• 5–10 years rank experience onboard dredger.

Responsibilities

• Take charge of the engine department and ensure safe operation of all machinery and equipment.
• Operate, maintain, troubleshoot and repair main propulsion engines, generators, pumps, and hydraulic systems.
• Ensure optimum performance of dredging machinery including cutter drive systems, pumps, spud systems, and winches.
• Plan and execute preventive and corrective maintenance per the PMS.
• Lead and train engine room personnel while maintaining safety and performance culture.
• Ensure compliance with Class, Flag State, IMO, MARPOL, SOLAS, ISM Code, and company systems.
• Coordinate dry-docking, overhauls, and major repairs with shore management.

Skills

Engine operations

Team leadership

Maintenance planning

Operational safety

Troubleshooting

Education

Certificate of Competency as Chief Engineer

STCW training certificates

Medical fitness certificate (ILO/MLC)

Job description

Chief Engineer for Self-Propelled Cutter Suction Dredger

Responsibilities

The Chief Engineer is responsible for the safe, efficient, and reliable operation, maintenance, and management of all machinery, propulsion systems, dredging equipment, and technical assets onboard the self-propelled cutter suction dredger. The role ensures compliance with international maritime regulations, company policies, and project requirements while maintaining the highest standards of safety, environmental protection, and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities:

• Take overall charge of the engine department and ensure the continuous safe operation of all machinery and equipment.
• Operate, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair main propulsion engines, auxiliary engines, generators, pumps, hydraulic systems, and associated machinery.
• Ensure optimum performance and availability of cutter drive systems, dredge pumps, spud systems, winches, and other dredging machinery.
• Plan and execute preventive and corrective maintenance in accordance with the Planned Maintenance System (PMS).
• Lead, supervise, train, and evaluate engine room personnel, fostering a strong safety and performance culture.
• Ensure compliance with Class, Flag State, IMO, MARPOL, SOLAS, ISM Code, and company technical and safety management systems.
• Monitor fuel, lubricating oil, cooling water, and consumable inventories, ensuring economical usage and timely replenishment.
• Maintain accurate technical records, engine logbooks, maintenance reports, spare parts inventory, and statutory documentation.
• Coordinate dry-docking, machinery overhauls, equipment commissioning, and major repair activities with shore management and contractors.
• Respond effectively to machinery breakdowns and emergencies, minimizing operational downtime.
• Ensure engine room housekeeping, pollution prevention measures, and environmental compliance at all times.
• Conduct risk assessments, toolbox talks, emergency drills, and permit-to-work activities related to engineering operations.
• Support dredging operations by optimizing machinery performance to achieve planned production targets.
• Monitor machinery condition using vibration analysis, performance trends, and diagnostic techniques where applicable.
• Liaise effectively with the Master, Project Manager, Technical Superintendent, Class Surveyors, and equipment manufacturers on technical matters.
• Promote continuous improvement through technical innovation, reliability enhancement, and cost-effective maintenance practices.
• Ensure strict adherence to occupational health, safety, and environmental (HSE) requirements while maintaining a proactive safety culture onboard.

Qualifications

Certificate of Competency as Chief Engineer

Basic & advanced STCW training certificates

Medical fitness certificate as per ILO/MLC requirements.

5-10 years rank experience onboard Dredger.

About Us

DEVELOP YOUR CAREER WITH INDUSTRY LEADERS

NMDC Group is always looking for talented individuals to join our team. We know that our people are fundamental to our success as a business, which is why we support their career development and personal wellbeing in every way we can.

NMDC Group offers an environment where every employee can thrive and reach their professional potential. Nothing is more important to us than ensuring every employee feels valued and respected in their roles, and able to progress in their career through training, mentorship, and educational opportunities.

With a wide range of attractive employee benefits and competitive salaries, we have created a workplace defined by its culture, and made by its people. If you have a passion for EPC and marine construction and want to work on some of the region’s most exciting projects, find your next challenge with us.