Position Summary:
The Port Engineer serves as the lead engineering authority for Coeyman’s Marine Towing, overseeing the operation, maintenance, and readiness of all tug and barge assets. This role ensures vessels operate safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with U.S. Coast Guard regulations, company policies, and industry standards. The Port Engineer partners closely with vessel crews, shipyards, vendors, and management to plan and execute maintenance, repair, and capital projects, while providing hands-on technical support to minimize downtime and support safe operations.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities:
- Oversee daily maintenance and repair activities across the tug and barge fleet.
- Implement and manage the Planned Maintenance System (PMS), ensuring timely completion and documentation.
- Review vessel engineering reports and deficiency lists, tracking issues through resolution.
- Lead troubleshooting and resolution of mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and control system issues.
- Plan, coordinate, and supervise shipyard periods, drydockings, and major repairs or overhauls.
- Maintain accurate engineering records, including maintenance history, logs, and fuel/lube tracking.
- Recommend capital improvements and reliability initiatives; support budgeting and long-term planning.
- Ensure all work is performed safely, prioritizing personnel and equipment at all times.
- Ensure compliance with USCG, ABS, EPA, and company Safety Management System (SMS) requirements.
- Coordinate inspections, audits, and surveys; maintain all required documentation.
- Support vessel crews in maintaining compliance and executing safety procedures.
- Participate in safety drills and emergency response activities as needed.
- Manage vendor relationships, including selection, scheduling, and performance oversight.
- Obtain and evaluate quotes, negotiate services, and ensure cost-effective execution of work.
- Review and approve invoices, ensuring accuracy of scope, pricing, and coding.
- Develop and manage maintenance and repair budgets for assigned vessels.
- Oversee inventory of spare parts and consumables to ensure availability without overstocking.
- Provide technical guidance to vessel crews, Port Captain, and Chief Engineers.
- Support training on equipment maintenance, troubleshooting, and emergency repairs.
- Foster collaboration between shore-based teams and vessel personnel.
- Supervise port mechanics or other assigned staff, as applicable.
- Communicate effectively with leadership on major repairs, risks, and operational needs.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Required Qualifications:
- Current or prior USCG Engineering License required (DDE 4000 HP or higher preferred).
- Valid TWIC card and Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC), or ability to obtain.
- Valid driver’s license.
- Minimum 5–10 years of marine engineering experience, preferably on tugboats or similar vessels.
- Strong working knowledge of diesel engines, generators, electrical systems, hydraulics, and auxiliary systems.
- Hands-on experience with vessel maintenance, troubleshooting, and shipyard coordination.
- Ability to interpret technical manuals, schematics, and maintenance procedures.
- Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, operational environment.
- Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work across diverse teams.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and maintenance management systems.
- Ability to work independently with sound judgment and initiative.
- Flexibility to respond to operational needs outside standard business hours.
Preferred Experience:
- Bachelor’s degree in Marine Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
- Prior sailing experience as a vessel engineer or experience managing shipyard projects.
- Experience working in high-traffic marine environments (e.g., New York Harbor).
- Familiarity with EPA Tier-compliant engines and modern vessel control and monitoring systems.
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to work in marine and industrial environments, including confined spaces and varying weather conditions.
- Frequent walking, climbing ladders, and navigating uneven or elevated surfaces.
- Ability to lift and move items up to 50 pounds (or more with assistance).
- Ability to sit, stand, bend, reach, and perform physical tasks for extended periods.
- Ability to board vessels in port, at dockside, or underway.
- Required use of PPE (hard hat, safety vest, steel‑toe boots, life vest) in operational areas.
Work Environment:
- Hybrid role combining office-based work with frequent travel to vessels, ports, and shipyards.
- Exposure to outdoor weather conditions, marine environments, and industrial settings.
- Standard business hours with availability for extended hours or emergency response as needed.
What We Offer:
- Highly competitive pay
- Holidays and paid time off
- Comprehensive medical, dental and vision insurance with additional coverage options available through AFLAC
- 401(k) retirement plan with up to 8% company match
- Short-Term and Long-Term Disability
- Group Life Insurance
- Employee Assistance Fund
- Emergency Service Worker bonus
- Employee Referral Bonus
- 15% Carhartt discount for all NY employees
- Employee-owned company investment opportunities
Carver Companies is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected status under federal, state, or local laws.
