Chief Marine Engineer

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Location
Houston, United States
Discipline
Engineering
Employment
Direct Hire
Chief Engineer – Cutter Suction Dredge (Full-Time, Rotational Travel)
Location: Remote (Must be willing to travel nationwide; preference for candidates residing along the Gulf or East Coast)
Schedule: Full-time rotational schedule (3 weeks on / 3 weeks off)
Compensation: $115,000 – $125,000 base salary + up to 8% annual performance-based bonus
Travel: 100% travel required – transportation, lodging, and daily meal allowance provided while on rotation
Position Overview:
A leading marine services company is seeking a Chief Engineer to take full responsibility for the propulsion and auxiliary machinery systems on a Cutter Suction Dredge. This is a vessel officer position that works in close coordination with the Captain to ensure safe and efficient mechanical operations. The role includes managing the engine room crew and any external contractors performing onboard repairs.
This is a rotational position (3 weeks on/3 weeks off), with travel to various project sites across the U.S. Candidates must be flexible and ready to deploy wherever their skills are needed. Project locations are assigned based on operational needs.
Key Responsibilities:
Ensure vessel compliance with ABS, USCG, and CFR regulatory requirements
Adhere to internal ISM, Maintenance Department policies, and the company’s Maintenance Operating System (MOS)
Lead daily pre-shift safety meetings and walkthroughs; promote use of proactive safety tools (e.g., near misses, good catches)
Enforce high safety standards by overseeing proper use of JSAs and PPE; lead by example within a strong Incident and Injury Free (IIF®) safety culture
Partner with the Captain to lead emergency drills per USCG standards
Maintain accurate logs including Engine Room Logs, Oil Record Books, and LOTO logs; monitor key equipment parameters
Oversee condition monitoring and preventative maintenance tasks
Maintain and manage inventory levels for vessel critical spares
Collaborate with Maintenance Management and Shipyard teams to prepare for scheduled maintenance or drydock events
Participate in weekly Vessel Reliability Assured Maintenance (RAM) meetings
Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in Marine Engineering or related technical field, or equivalent hands-on industry experience
Experience managing engine systems and machinery aboard marine vessels
Strong leadership and team management skills
Familiarity with regulatory compliance, safety protocols, and maintenance planning
Must be willing and able to travel nationally with full-time rotational availability
Benefits:
Competitive base salary and annual performance bonus
401(k) with 100% company match on the first 6% (immediate vesting)
Annual profit-sharing contribution based on company performance
Full medical, dental, vision, prescription, life, and disability insurance coverage
Additional Information:
This position is part of a highly experienced, safety-focused team committed to excellence in marine operations and engineering. The company operates the largest and most diverse dredging fleet in the U.S. and has a strong track record in marine infrastructure and renewable energy projects.
The employer is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in E-Verify as required by law.