Chief Engineer

ZipRecruiter; Houston (TX); Remote; USD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Chief Engineer for a dynamic role involving 100% travel across the nation. This position requires overseeing the propulsion plant and auxiliary machinery on a Cutter Suction Dredge, ensuring safety and compliance with all regulations. You will work closely with the Captain and shoreside teams to maintain vessel operations and implement preventative maintenance systems. Ideal candidates will possess a degree in marine engineering, relevant licenses, and a strong background in diesel engine operations. Join a forward-thinking company that values safety, teamwork, and professional growth while enjoying competitive benefits and a supportive work environment.

Benefits

Competitive salary and bonus program

401(k) with company matching

Annual profit-sharing contributions

Medical, Dental, Vision insurance

Qualifications

• Bachelor's in marine engineering or equivalent experience required.
• Valid USCG Chief Engineer License and TWIC Card needed.

Responsibilities

• Oversee propulsion plant and machinery for Cutter Suction Dredge.
• Ensure compliance with ABS and USCG regulations.
• Lead safety meetings and promote incident-free culture.

Skills

Diesel Engine Operation

Propulsion System Maintenance

Communication Skills

Hydraulic Systems Knowledge

Troubleshooting Skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Marine Engineering

Valid USCG Chief Engineer License

TWIC Card eligibility

Tools

Maintenance Operating System (MOS)

Job description

EHC is currently looking for a Chief Engineer for a client located in Houston, TX.

This is a 100% travel position with a rotation schedule of 3 weeks on/3 weeks off, therefore can live anywhere in the US (preferably along the Gulf or East coast). Employees do not get to pick & choose project sites or work location; must be able to travel where their skills are needed/requested by the client. Lodging & transportation is provided by the client + daily work meal allowance (amount to be determined by client).

The Opportunity: The Chief Engineer shall oversee and maintain overall responsibility for propulsion plant and auxiliary machinery equipment for their assigned Cutter Suction Dredge. Acting as a vessel officer and partnering with the Captain, this position is responsible for the safe and reliable operation of all vessel machinery including the supervision of engine room crew and any contracted repair services onboard the vessel. Working in coordination with shoreside Maintenance Superintendents and Managers, the Chief Engineer shall also ensure the vessel's preventative maintenance system is followed and is encouraged to provide recommended improvements, as necessary.

Responsibilities & Functions:

• Ensure the assigned vessel meets all regulatory requirements set forth by applicable ABS and USCG Regulations, Rules and CFR's.
• Be familiar and knowledgeable of applicable Company ISM and Maintenance Department Policies and Procedures and the Company's (MOS) Maintenance Operating System.
• Lead department daily Pre-Shift Meetings and Safety Walkthroughs with staff and promote the use of proactive safety reporting tools (Near Misses, Good Catches, etc.).
• Ensure clean and safe work environments for staff during operations and assigned tasks, promoting thorough JSA's and verifying required PPE is supplied and worn, as applicable. Acting as a leader in the Company's Incident and Injury Free (IIF) Culture.
• In partnering with the Captain, lead effective emergency drills, as required by USCG.
• Maintain daily Engine Room Logs, Oil Record Books, LOTO Logs, etc., monitoring critical equipment operating parameters and daily fluid levels.
• As part of the preventative maintenance system, ensure vessels condition monitoring equipment and tasks are maintained.
• Ensure vessel critical spare inventories are within designated Min/Max values and ordering parts as they're consumed.
• Assist Maintenance Management & Shipyard teams to effectively identify work and plan for maintenance period/shipyard events.
• Participate in weekly Vessel Reliability Assured Maintenance (RAM) meetings.

Experience Required:

• Bachelor's degree in marine engineering or technical discipline or equivalent industry experience.
• Valid Driver's License & TWIC Card (The Transportation Worker Identification Credential, also known as TWIC, is required by the Maritime Transportation Security Act for workers who need access to secure areas of the nation's maritime facilities and vessels). Please note this is required (if they do not have a valid TWIC card, they must be eligible to apply for one).
• Valid USCG Chief Engineer License, valid Tankerman PIC Certificate, formal training in EMD & Caterpillar engines, hydraulic systems, and basic electrical systems, rigging and overhead lifting training.

Other Requirements:

• Ability to read and interpret documents, drawings (i.e. operating / maintenance manuals, system diagrams and electrical one-line diagrams).
• Confident and knowledgeable of Diesel Engine and Propulsion System Operation, Maintenance and Troubleshooting.
• Competent in all aspects of pneumatic, hydraulic, compressed air, fuel oil and lube oil system operation, maintenance and troubleshooting.
• Solid knowledge in Basic Electrical machinery & Automation operation and troubleshooting.
• Dredging experience.
• Communication skills, able to express ideas, provide clear direction, and ensure audience understanding through 3-way communication.
• Maintains a positive attitude and can motivate and improve team morale.
• Self-starter, motivated, someone who actively monitors work outside of the control room.
• Must be able to travel 100% Nationwide.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary and bonus program.
• 401(k) program that includes 100% company matching of the first 6% of employee contributions with immediate vesting.
• Annual profit-sharing contributions by the company to participants' 401(k) accounts based on the company's annual performance.
• Medical, Dental, Vision, Prescription, Life and insurance plans.