Chief Marine Engineer — Vessel Maintenance & Safety

Sacbar; Richmond (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

Foss Maritime Company seeks an experienced Chief Engineer to ensure vessel machinery operates safely, maintained and repaired efficiently aboard our fleet. You will lead the Engineering Department, enforce maintenance programs, and coordinate with the Captain and Port Engineer to minimize downtime.

You will train junior engineers, manage spares and fuel procedures, and participate in call-outs including nights, weekends, and holidays. Strong leadership and maritime compliance are essential.

Qualifications

• Must have a valid QMED endorsement.
• DDE 4,000 HP license or greater preferred.
• Must have a valid TWIC card.
• Must have a valid USCG Merchant Mariner Document or Merchant Mariner Credential.
• Must be willing to work nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Must be able to respond to call-out work, with two hours notice.
• Must be able to join the Inlandboatman's union within 30 days of hire.

Responsibilities

• Maintains a safe work environment on the vessel and enforces company policies and best practices.
• Maintains all vessel machinery and systems including propulsion, generators, deck and cargo handling; ensures proper control, monitoring and alarm operations.
• Notifies the Captain and Port Engineer of abnormal changes in machinery status.
• Performs safe voyage repairs with limited resources and remote location constraints.
• Troubleshoots machinery malfunctions and communicates with Captain, Port Engineer and shore-side support.
• Responsible for vessel bunkering operations and fueling procedures compliance.
• Checks fuel/fluid levels and takes monthly oil samples for analysis.
• Maintains adequate spares and inventory for vessel operations.
• Trains Junior Engineering staff in company policies and maintenance procedures.
• Works with Port Engineer and vendors during planned or emergent shipyard work.

Education

QMED endorsement

USCG Merchant Mariner Document or Merchant Mariner Credential

DDE 4,000 HP license or greater

TWIC card

Job description

Foss Maritime Company seeks an experienced Chief Engineer to ensure vessel machinery operates safely, maintained and repaired efficiently aboard our fleet. You will lead the Engineering Department, enforce maintenance programs, and coordinate with the Captain and Port Engineer to minimize downtime.

You will train junior engineers, manage spares and fuel procedures, and participate in call-outs including nights, weekends, and holidays. Strong leadership and maritime compliance are essential.