Chief Engineer Unlimited

Birdon Group; Bayou La Batre (AL); On-site; USD 130,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Birdon Group in Bayou La Batre, AL, seeks a Chief Engineer Unlimited to oversee mechanical and electrical integrity of assigned vessels, ensuring safety and reliability. This is a full-time, on-site role reporting to shore-based management.

The role focuses on propulsion systems, auxiliary machinery, and maintenance planning, with mentoring of engineers and coordination with captains and yards for repairs, upgrades, and inspections.

Qualifications

• Valid Chief Engineer Unlimited license or equivalent credential.
• Strong technical expertise in marine propulsion systems and shipboard mechanical/electrical systems.
• Proficiency in preventive and corrective maintenance planning and troubleshooting.
• Solid understanding of maritime safety standards and regulatory requirements.

Responsibilities

• Oversee operation and maintenance of propulsion systems and auxiliary machinery.
• Develop and execute preventive and corrective maintenance plans.
• Direct and mentor engineering crew and coordinate yard periods.

Skills

Chief Engineer Unlimited license

Propulsion systems

Maintenance planning

Leadership

Regulatory compliance

Job description

Company Description Birdon Group delivers engineered maritime solutions across the full vessel lifecycle, from design and construction to sustainment, remediation, and end‑of‑life services. The organization supports mission‑critical programs for U.S. government agencies, Australian sovereign initiatives, and commercial operators, particularly where technical complexity and regulatory scrutiny are high. Teams operate across U.S. Gulf Coast yards, the Pacific Northwest, and Australian sites, combining entrepreneurial agility with disciplined, heavy‑industry delivery. Birdon’s capabilities include custom vessel design, integrated construction, fleet operation and upgrade, dredging and environmental recovery, and compliant decommissioning and recycling. This breadth of work offers engineering professionals exposure to diverse projects, advanced maritime technologies, and meaningful work that keeps fleets reliable and communities connected.

Role Description The Chief Engineer Unlimited is a full‑time, on‑site role based in Bayou La Batre, AL, responsible for the overall mechanical and electrical integrity, safety, and performance of assigned vessels. Daily responsibilities include overseeing operation and maintenance of propulsion systems, auxiliary machinery, and engineering support systems, as well as developing and executing preventive and corrective maintenance plans. The Chief Engineer Unlimited directs and mentors engineering crew members, assigns tasks, and ensures work is completed in line with regulatory requirements, company standards, and class rules. This role collaborates closely with the Captain and shore‑based management to plan yard periods, coordinate repairs and upgrades, manage technical documentation, and support compliance inspections and audits. The position also involves monitoring fuel and consumable usage, managing spare parts and inventory, and contributing to continuous improvement of engineering processes and vessel reliability.

Qualifications

• Valid Chief Engineer Unlimited license or equivalent credential, with demonstrated experience managing engineering operations on complex vessels or similar heavy marine assets.
• Strong technical expertise in marine propulsion systems, auxiliary machinery, power generation, and shipboard mechanical and electrical systems.
• Proficiency in preventive and corrective maintenance planning, troubleshooting, and use of maintenance management systems.
• Solid understanding of maritime safety standards, regulatory requirements, class rules, and environmental compliance relevant to commercial and government vessels.
• Proven leadership skills, including supervision of engineering teams, training and mentoring crew, and fostering a safety‑focused, inclusive working environment.
• Effective communication and collaboration skills for working with captains, shore‑based management, regulators, and technical vendors.
• Ability to interpret technical drawings, engineering specifications, and OEM manuals, and produce clear reports and documentation.
• Experience in yard work, refits, or upgrades, including coordination with shipyards and contractors, is highly beneficial.
• Strong problem‑solving skills, sound judgment under operational pressure, and a commitment to continuous improvement and reliability.