Job Summary
This pivotal role supports the technical management, maintenance, and operational readiness of our tugboat fleet and marine assets. Serving as a key liaison between vessel crews, vendors, shipyards, and shore-side management, the Assistant Port Engineer ensures vessels are maintained safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with all regulatory standards. This position offers a clear career progression toward a Port Engineer role and provides valuable exposure to marine maintenance management and fleet support activities.
Responsibilities
- Assist in planning, coordinating, and executing vessel maintenance and repair activities.
- Support troubleshooting efforts for propulsion systems, auxiliary machinery, electrical systems, and deck equipment.
- Coordinate repairs with vessel crews, vendors, contractors, and shipyards.
- Monitor vessel condition and maintenance needs to ensure fleet reliability and operational readiness.
- Participate in vessel inspections and surveys as required.
- Assist in planning and executing dry dock periods and major repair projects.
- Coordinate contractor activities and monitor project schedules.
- Review repair specifications, quotations, and work scopes, ensuring quality standards are met.
- Support compliance with USCG, ABS, Class Society, Flag State, and environmental regulations.
- Assist with audits, inspections, surveys, and corrective actions.
- Maintain current vessel documentation and maintenance records.
- Support obtaining repair quotations and vendor proposals.
- Monitor maintenance expenditures and project costs.
- Support invoice review and approval processes.
- Develop and maintain relationships with vendors, shipyards, and OEM service providers.
- Promote safe work practices throughout fleet maintenance activities.
- Support the implementation of safety programs and procedures.
- Conduct vessel visits to assess maintenance needs and provide technical support.
- Collaborate closely with Operations, Marine Personnel, and Vessel Masters.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s Degree in Marine Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical discipline; equivalent maritime experience will be considered.
- Minimum of 3+ years of marine engineering, vessel maintenance, shipyard, or fleet technical experience.
- Strong understanding of diesel propulsion systems, auxiliary machinery, pumps, hydraulics, electrical systems, and vessel maintenance practices.
- Working knowledge of USCG regulations and marine industry standards.
- Ability to travel to vessels, shipyards, and operational locations as needed.
Nice To Have Skills
- Previous experience aboard tugboats, ATBs, barges, or commercial vessels.
- USCG Engineering License (DDE, Assistant Engineer, Chief Engineer, etc.).
- Experience supporting dry docks, vessel repair projects, or maintenance management systems.
Preferred Education And Experience
- Marine Engineering or Mechanical Engineering degree.
- Over 3 years of relevant marine technical experience, with a background supporting vessel maintenance and repairs.
