Foss PNW Tugboat Engineer

fossmaritime; Seattle (WA); On-site; USD 69,000 - 76,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

PPO Plan (Premera Blue Shield)

Dental

Vision

Short Term Disability

Life Insurance

Pension

401(k) plan

Travel assistance

Job summary

Foss Maritime seeks a highly skilled Chief Engineer to lead engineering operations aboard our vessels. You will troubleshoot engines, manage maintenance programs, and mentor junior engineers while ensuring safety and regulatory compliance.

The role requires a USCG Chief Engineer license and STCW endorsement, with TWIC, passport, and medical certificate. We offer competitive hourly pay, strong benefits, and a stability-focused maritime career with union membership preferred.

Qualifications

• Valid USCG National Chief Engineer license (Limited Oceans, Unlimited horsepower) required.
• Valid STCW-III/2 endorsement required.
• Must possess a valid TWIC, Passport & USCG issued Medical Certificate.
• Strong maritime background with understanding of vessel operations and equipment capabilities/limitations.
• Experience implementing casualty control measures in engineering casualties.
• Ability to read and interpret technical data, specifications, and drawings.
• Basic knowledge of welding and hot work safety procedures; ability to safely transfer fuels/oils.
• Knowledge of MARPOL regulations and pollution prevention procedures.
• Maintenance and operation of bilge, ballast, fire, fresh water and sanitary systems.
• Must be a current member of the Union or able to join the Union upon hire.

Responsibilities

• Troubleshoot and repair engines, pumps, machinery, deck machinery, and electrical components.
• Maintain proper markings, tags, and color coding of various systems; general housekeeping of engineering spaces.
• Prepare and submit monthly engineering reports to management.
• Maintain vessel parts inventory levels.
• Work on deck as needed: handle lines, tow operations.
• Train Junior Engineers on maintenance and safety procedures.

Skills

USCG Chief Engineer license

STCW endorsement

TWIC & travel docs

Maritime operations knowledge

Technical reading

Safety & hot work

MARPOL knowledge

Vessel systems maintenance

Union membership

Job description

About Foss Maritime

Foss Maritime is one of the most recognized and respected maritime brands in the U.S., combining a rich legacy with a forward-thinking approach to industry innovation. While deeply rooted in tradition, Foss is evolving at a fast pace, continuously setting new standards for operational excellence and sustainability.

With operations spanning all U.S. coasts and global transportation projects, Foss is a leader in harbor and terminal towage, tug and barge transportation, and offshore energy solutions, including traditional energy and offshore wind projects. Our primary operations are on the U.S. West Coast, Alaska, and Hawaii.

As part of the Saltchuk family of companies, Foss is a values-driven organization that takes pride in its exceptional team, commitment to safety, and dedication to customer success. With a culture built on integrity, innovation, and collaboration, Foss Maritime remains a trusted leader in the maritime industry.

About the Role

As a Chief Engineer, you'll be an essential part of our mission to provide safe and reliable maritime services. You'll work alongside a dedicated team that values professionalism, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

What You'll Do

• Troubleshoot and repair all engines, pumps, machinery, deck machinery, and electrical components.
• Maintain proper markings, tags, and color coding of various systems. Responsible for general housekeeping of engineering spaces

• Prepare and submit monthly engineering reports to to management.
• Maintain vessel parts inventory levels
• Works on deck as needed: handles lines, makes/break tow.
• Train Junior Engineers on maintenance / preventative maintenance procedures & responsible for the safety of personnel within the engine room.

What We’re Looking For

• Valid USCG National Chief Engineer license (Limited Oceans, Unlimited Horsepower ratings) required.
• Valid STCW-III/2 endorsement required.
• Must possess a valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC), Passport & USCG issued Medical Certificate.
• Strong maritime background with a thorough understanding of vessel operations and equipment capabilities/limitations preferred.
• Experience implementing appropriate casualty control measures in response to engineering casualties.
• Ability to reads and interprets technical data, specifications, and drawings.
• Basic knowledge of welding and burning procedures and hot work safety precautions. Ability to safely transfer fuel and oils.
• Knowledge of MARPOL regulations and pollution prevention procedures.
• Maintenance and operation of bilge, ballast, fire, fresh water and sanitary systems
• Must be a current member of the Union or able to join the Union upon hire.

What We Offer

• Pay for this position will be $52.06 per hour.
• National PPO Plan (Premera Blue Shield)
• Dental
• Vision
• Short Term Disability (stipend and medical continuation)
• Life Insurance
• Pension
• Optional 401(k) plan participation.
• Business travel assistance program.

Drug Free Workplace

Foss Maritime Company LLC is a Drug Free Workplace where post offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Foss Maritime Company LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.