2nd Engineer Backhoe

Van Oord; Rotterdam; On-site; EUR 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Excellent benefits package

Board allowances for abroad

Onboard training & development

Fitness facilities on board

Collegial working atmosphere

Job summary

Van Oord is seeking a hands-on 2nd Engineer Backhoe Dredger to support the 1st Engineer on our backhoe dredging vessels. You will perform maintenance and operation of engines, propulsion systems and generators, ensuring reliability in demanding conditions at harbors, canals, and offshore wind projects.

You will work with an international crew, uphold safety standards, and contribute to efficient project execution aboard our dredgers.

Qualifications

• Hands-on technician with experience on dredging vessels, preferably backhoe dredgers.
• Strong knowledge of mechanical and electrical systems, with maintenance and troubleshooting ability.
• Familiarity with offshore safety standards and regulations.
• Proactive, problem-solving mindset when facing technical challenges.
• Excellent communication in English, both written and spoken.

Responsibilities

• Assisting the 1st Engineer with daily maintenance and operation of engines, propulsion systems and generators
• Performing inspections, preventive maintenance and repairs on mechanical and electrical equipment
• Troubleshooting issues and coordinating timely repairs to minimise downtime
• Ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations on board
• Supporting a safe, smooth and productive working environment through strong teamwork and communication

Skills

Dredging experience

Mechanical systems

Electrical systems

Safety regulations

Teamwork & communication

English proficiency

Tools

Maintenance tools

Job description

THE POSITION

As a 2nd Engineer Backhoe Dredger, you will play a key role in the maintenance and operation of our advanced dredging vessels, specifically the backhoe dredgers. These vessels are essential for our dredging and marine projects, such as the construction of harbors, canals, and offshore wind farms. You will ensure that the technical equipment and systems on board are in optimal working condition, allowing the team to perform their tasks efficiently and safely.

YOUR IMPACT

You help keep our backhoe dredgers running safely and efficiently. By supporting the 1st Engineer and working closely with the crew, you make sure our technical systems stay in top shape, even in demanding conditions.

Your key responsibilities

• Assisting the 1st Engineer with daily maintenance and operation of engines, propulsion systems and generators
• Performing inspections, preventive maintenance and repairs on mechanical and electrical equipment
• Troubleshooting issues and coordinating timely repairs to minimise downtime
• Ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations on board
• Supporting a safe, smooth and productive working environment through strong teamwork and communication

YOUR WORKPLACE

You work in a close knit team on board of a dredger where teamwork, trust and involvement are central. Life on board is dynamic and structured with strong attention to safety and your personal growth. You work together with international colleagues who share your curiosity and drive.

About You

You are a hands‑on technician with a sharp eye for detail and a proactive mindset. You know your way around complex systems and enjoy working in a team that keeps operations running smoothly. You bring

• Previous experience on dredging vessels, preferably backhoe dredgers
• Strong knowledge of mechanical and electrical systems, including maintenance and troubleshooting
• Familiarity with offshore safety standards and regulations
• A proactive, problem‑solving attitude when facing technical challenges
• Excellent communication skills in English, both written and spoken

WE OFFER

Van Oord offers you a challenging and international working environment where you can make an impact on future generations. In addition, we offer

• A salary with excellent secondary benefits according to the CAO Waterbouw;
• Extra allowances for working on board or at project locations abroad;
• A transparent career path with training and courses for further development;
• A work environment where health and vitality are encouraged, including fitness facilities on board;
• A pleasant and collegial working atmosphere.

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Acquisition in response to this vacancy is not appreciated.