Senior Marine Engineer, Research Vessel

William & Mary; Virginia (MN); On-site; USD 75,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

William & Mary’s Virginia Institute of Marine Science seeks a Chief Engineer for the Research Vessel Virginia. The role ensures compliance with federal maritime regulations, manages all shipboard engineering operations, and supports other VIMS vessels as needed.

The candidate will oversee procedural safety, maintain propulsion and electrical systems, and coordinate with the Captain for repairs. Requires relevant Coast Guard credentials and sea-time experience.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Valid Driver’s License and First Aid/CPR certification.
• TWIC and USCG STCW credentials required or obtainable within six months.

Responsibilities

• Oversee maintenance and operation of all deck and safety equipment on the R/V Virginia.
• Operate and maintain engineering systems including A-Frame, J-Frame, crane, winches, and CTD winch.
• Repair or replace engineering systems and coordinate with the vessel Master for critical repairs.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of engine-room and engineering spaces.
• Provide shoreside or seagoing support for other VIMS vessels as needed.

Skills

First Aid/CPR

TWIC credential

STCW credential

USCG DDE 4000HP license

MS Office

Reading electrical diagrams

Vessel maintenance

Team leadership

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

MS Office

Electrical diagrams

One-line diagrams

Diesel engine repair

Job description

William & Mary’s Virginia Institute of Marine Science seeks a Chief Engineer for the Research Vessel Virginia. The role ensures compliance with federal maritime regulations, manages all shipboard engineering operations, and supports other VIMS vessels as needed.

The candidate will oversee procedural safety, maintain propulsion and electrical systems, and coordinate with the Captain for repairs. Requires relevant Coast Guard credentials and sea-time experience.