Chief Engineer - Unlimited Horsepower

Position Overview

The Chief Engineer has the responsibility and authority to operate, maintain, and repair the engine room plant and dredging equipment aboard the assigned hopper dredge (RB Weeks or Magdalen). The Chief directs the Engine Department — First Assistant Engineer, watch-standing Engineers, and Oilers — and is responsible to the Master, Weeks Marine, and the U.S. Coast Guard for the safe, efficient operation of the vessel's machinery.

The Chief is expected to build a cohesive, well-trained Engine Department capable of forecasting and preventing machinery failure, and to keep the vessel's condition in compliance with ABS/USCG classification and Weeks Marine's Safety Management System (SMS) at all times. Safety of the ship and all personnel is the Chief Engineer's primary priority — production is never to come at the expense of safety.

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.

Schedule & Environment

• 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.

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to tolerate rough seas, vibration, heat, harsh weather conditions, confined spaces, and high noise levels.
• Work frequently requires pushing, pulling, bending, standing for long periods, and climbing ladders throughout the engineering spaces.
• Must be able to lift or carry equipment, supplies, and parts up to 50 lbs. unassisted.
• Must be medically fit for shipboard duty per USCG/STCW medical certificate requirements.

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Physical Requirements