Lead Chief Engineer — Dredging Vessel Operations

Weeks Marine, Inc.; Covington (LA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental and vision plans

Life insurance

Disability

Retirement plans with matching

Generous paid time off

Job summary

Weeks Marine, Inc. seeks a Senior Chief Engineer to lead the Engine Department aboard one of our dredging vessels. You will oversee a multi‑person team, maintain diesel propulsion and dredge pumps, and ensure compliance with ABS/USCG and SMS.

This role requires hands‑on leadership, ability to live aboard on a 21/21 rotation, and readiness to travel between home and vessel. Candidates must hold a USCG Chief Engineer license and have extensive oceangoing experience.

Qualifications

• U.S. Coast Guard License – Chief Engineer, Unlimited Horsepower – REQUIRED.
• Minimum 8+ years total marine engineering experience, including prior service as a licensed Engineer aboard oceangoing or coastwise vessels; prior service as Chief or First Assistant Engineer preferred.
• Marine construction and dredging experience strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated mechanical aptitude and hands‑on troubleshooting/repair ability across diesel propulsion, dredge pumps, automation and other auxiliary systems.
• Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
• Ability to live aboard the vessel for a full rotation (21 days on / 21 days off), subject to revision based on operational needs.
• Willingness and ability to travel as required between home and vessel location.
• Ability to communicate clearly in English, both verbally and in writing (logs, reports, requisitions, USCG/LR correspondence).
• Must possess all required credentials current and valid, with a minimum of 6 months remaining before expiration at time of hire.
• Demonstrated leadership, organizational, and personnel‑management skills sufficient to direct a multi‑person engine department across a 24/7 watch schedule.

Responsibilities

• Responsible for all aspects of equipment onboard the vessel taking into consideration safety, operation, and production of the dredge.
• Directs and supervises the First Assistant Engineer (Day Engineer), watch engineers, oilers, and day engineers; promotes a safe working environment in which each department member can correctly perform their duties.
• Defines priorities for all engine department work, including repairs, maintenance, and long‑term improvement projects; generates engine room work lists reflecting those priorities.
• Issues and communicates orders to verify that the requirements of the Safety Management System (SMS) are observed; monitors the safety and pollution‑prevention aspects of engineering operations.
• Meets with the Day Engineer to establish daily goals and plans; oversees execution of the vessel's Preventative Maintenance program. Helm is the onboard PMS.
• Specifies and requisitions materials needed to maintain and operate the vessel; follows up with purchasing and shore‑side personnel to ensure timely delivery and keeps accurate records of material and inventory levels. SAP work orders and GEP requisition system.
• Generates required daily, weekly, and monthly engineering reports, including the official log, oil record book, and monthly PM reporting.
• Maintains the vessel's condition to meet Lloyds Register, USCG, and company regulations during operation, inspection, and shipyard periods; plans major repairs between projects or during work stoppages to minimize production impact.
• Available at all times to the Engine Department to resolve machinery issues or personnel matters; serves as the senior technical authority in the engine room.
• Follows company and worksite safety policies and procedures; complies with all applicable federal and international maritime regulations.

Skills

Chief Engineer License

Maritime leadership

Vessel engine operation

Troubleshooting & repair

English communication

ABS/USCG compliance

Job description

Weeks Marine, Inc. seeks a Senior Chief Engineer to lead the Engine Department aboard one of our dredging vessels. You will oversee a multi‑person team, maintain diesel propulsion and dredge pumps, and ensure compliance with ABS/USCG and SMS.

This role requires hands‑on leadership, ability to live aboard on a 21/21 rotation, and readiness to travel between home and vessel. Candidates must hold a USCG Chief Engineer license and have extensive oceangoing experience.