Senior Port Engineer
Job Summary
A leading maritime organization is seeking a highly skilled Senior Port Engineer to oversee the technical management and operational readiness of a fleet of government-supported vessels. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong technical expertise, leadership capabilities, and the ability to coordinate seamlessly with shipboard personnel, shipyards, and regulatory agencies. This is a hands-on, high-visibility position that plays a critical role in maintaining vessel safety, performance, and regulatory adherence.
Responsibilities
- Manage daily technical operations of assigned vessels, including maintenance, repairs, and overall readiness.
- Act as the primary point of contact for vessel activities during port calls and dry-dock periods.
- Oversee shipyard activities, directing repair vendors and contractors to ensure timely and quality work.
- Collaborate closely with Chief Engineers on maintenance planning and spare parts management.
- Prepare and oversee operating budgets and develop long-term maintenance strategies.
- Develop dry-dock specifications and attend vessels during shipyard periods to supervise repairs.
- Ensure vessels comply with ABS, USCG, and other regulatory standards.
- Manage vessel activation processes, coordinating repairs, crewing, and readiness for sea trials.
- Participate in vessel activations and sail onboard as necessary.
- Oversee sea trials, prepare post-trial reports, and address deficiencies identified during testing.
- Maintain comprehensive records of inspections, certifications, and regulatory compliance activities.
- Coordinate with classification societies and government agencies for surveys and certifications.
- Track engineering performance, costs, and maintenance records to optimize vessel operations.
- Supervise and evaluate shipboard personnel, supporting performance development.
- Collaborate with other Port Engineers on fleet-wide initiatives and technical efforts.
- Promote a safety-first culture by implementing and enforcing Safety Management Systems (SMS).
Requirements
- Proven experience as a Port Engineer or in a comparable vessel management or shipyard role.
- Strong knowledge of marine engineering systems, including propulsion, power generation, and auxiliary systems.
- Demonstrated experience managing vessel repairs, dry-dock periods, and maintenance programs.
- Familiarity with regulatory frameworks such as USCG and ABS standards.
- Proficiency with technical documentation, vessel drawings, and maintenance management systems.
- Excellent organizational skills with the ability to prioritize multiple tasks effectively.
- Ability to obtain or hold a TWIC card.
- Ability to obtain or hold a U.S. Government security clearance at the Secret level.
Preferred qualifications include experience with ABS NS-E or similar vessel management systems, familiarity with ABS MyFreedom or comparable compliance platforms, and prior support of government or defense-related vessel programs. Sailing experience or close coordination with vessel crews is a plus.
