Chief Marine Engineer — Dredging & 24/7 Operations

Kiewit; Covington (LA); On-site; USD 150,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Weeks Marine is seeking a Chief Engineer to manage the engine room of our hopper dredge fleet. The role leads the Engine Department, ensuring safe operation, maintenance, and compliance with ABS/USCG SMS. You will live aboard and rotate 21 days on/21 days off, guiding a multi-person team across 24/7 watch schedules.

The position requires extensive marine engineering experience, a valid license, and strong leadership. TWIC and current credentials are mandatory, with travel as needed.

Qualifications

• Minimum 8+ years total marine engineering experience, incl. licensed Engineer on oceangoing/coastwise vessels; Chief/First Assistant preferred.
• Marine construction and dredging experience strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude with diesel propulsion, dredge pumps, automation and related systems.
• TWIC credential held and valid.
• Ability to live aboard for a 21/21 rotation and travel as needed.
• Strong English communication skills, written and spoken.
• All required credentials current with at least 6 months remaining.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all engine department activities, safety, operation and production of the dredge.
• Direct First Assistant Engineer, watch engineers and oilers; promote a safe work environment.
• Set priorities for maintenance and repairs; prepare engine room work lists.
• Issue orders to ensure SMS compliance; monitor safety and pollution-prevention aspects.
• Meet daily goals with the Day Engineer and oversee Preventative Maintenance program.
• Specify materials and coordinate with purchasing; track inventory and records.
• Generate daily, weekly, and monthly engineering reports and logs.
• Maintain vessel condition to meet regulatory standards; plan major repairs during downtimes.
• Be on-call 24/7 as senior technical authority in engine room.

Skills

Marine engineering experience

Licensed Engineer

Dredging experience

Diesel propulsion

Troubleshooting

TWIC

Live-aboard

English communication

Leadership

Job description

Weeks Marine is seeking a Chief Engineer to manage the engine room of our hopper dredge fleet. The role leads the Engine Department, ensuring safe operation, maintenance, and compliance with ABS/USCG SMS. You will live aboard and rotate 21 days on/21 days off, guiding a multi-person team across 24/7 watch schedules.

The position requires extensive marine engineering experience, a valid license, and strong leadership. TWIC and current credentials are mandatory, with travel as needed.