Senior Chief Engineer — Live-Aboard Dredge Vessel

Kiewit Corporation; Covington (LA); On-site; USD 150,000 - 210,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits package

Life insurance

Retirement plans with matching

Generous paid time off

Job summary

Weeks Marine in Covington, LA seeks a Chief Engineer to lead the Engine Department aboard the hopper dredge. You will operate, maintain, and repair the ship's propulsion and dredging systems, ensuring safety and regulatory compliance while meeting production goals.

You will supervise First Assistant Engineer, watch engineers, and oilers on a 21 days on / 21 days off rotation, living aboard. Strong leadership, troubleshooting skills, and marine credentials are essential for success.

Qualifications

• Minimum 8+ years total marine engineering experience.
• Licensed Engineer aboard oceangoing or coastwise vessels.
• TWIC credential.
• Ability to live aboard the vessel for a full rotation (21 days on / 21 days off).
• 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.

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.
• 24/7 vessel operation – the Chief Engineer the day shift and is on call for the full rotation while aboard.
• Rotation: 21 days on / 21 days off, living aboard the vessel; schedule subject to revision for operational needs (e.g., crew change delays, project demands).
• Candidates should be able to plan ahead for issues arising at home during extended absences, given the fixed rotational schedule.

Skills

Marine engineering

Licensed Engineer

Dredging experience

TWIC

Leadership

English communication

Tools

SAP work orders

GEP requisition system

Job description

Weeks Marine in Covington, LA seeks a Chief Engineer to lead the Engine Department aboard the hopper dredge. You will operate, maintain, and repair the ship's propulsion and dredging systems, ensuring safety and regulatory compliance while meeting production goals.

You will supervise First Assistant Engineer, watch engineers, and oilers on a 21 days on / 21 days off rotation, living aboard. Strong leadership, troubleshooting skills, and marine credentials are essential for success.