2nd Engineer Backhoe Dredgers

Van Oord; Rotterdam; On-site; EUR 54,000 - 76,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

5-weeks-on, 5-weeks-off rotation

12-hour watch system on board

Competitive salary matching experience

Professional development and training

International working environment

Job summary

Van Oord is seeking a hands-on 2nd Engineer Backhoe Dredger to maintain and operate the backhoe dredgers on board our vessels, ensuring engines, propulsion systems and generators run safely and efficiently.

You will join an international crew, perform inspections, coordinate repairs, and uphold offshore safety standards while contributing to reliable project execution across harbors, canals and offshore wind farms.

Qualifications

• 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.

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

Communication in English

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

At Van Oord, you get the space to use your experience on international projects. You work with experienced colleagues and get the responsibility to do your job independently.

• A 5-weeks-on, 5-weeks-off rotation
• A 12-hour watch system on board
• A competitive salary matching your experience and qualifications
• Opportunities for professional development, training, and career growth
• A dynamic and international working environment

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