Port Engineer

Job Details Maintenance & Engineering Operations

• Actively ensuring safety of personnel and equipment is a priority before, during, and after all work.
• Oversee day‑to‑day maintenance and repair activities for the tug and barge fleet.
• Implement and monitor the Preventive Maintenance Plan/Planned Maintenance System; verify documentation and closeouts.
• Review daily engineering reports and deficiency lists from vessels, track items to closure.
• Lead troubleshooting efforts for mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and control system issues.
• Manage and coordinate vessel repairs, including emergency response and corrective actions.
• Plan and supervise shipyard periods, dry docking’s, and major equipment overhauls.
• Maintain accurate engineering records, maintenance history, engine logs, and fuel/lube oil tracking.
• Recommend capital improvement projects and reliability upgrades; support annual budgeting and forecasting.
• Maintain corporate databases, maintenance systems, and reporting tools.

• Ensure compliance with USCG, ABS, EPA regulations and company Safety Management System (SMS) standards.
• Coordinate regulatory inspections, audits, and surveys; maintain compliance documentation.
• Support vessel crews in maintaining current compliance documentation and safety procedures.
• Participate in safety drills and emergency response procedures.
• Receive Shipyard Competent Person and gas detection equipment training as applicable.

• Select and manage approved vendors; ensure required insurance and safety documentation.
• Coordinate and schedule vendors with operations to minimize downtime.
• Review, approve, and code vendor invoicing; verify scope completion and pricing accuracy.
• Prepare and manage maintenance/repair budgets for assigned vessels.
• Purchase engine department spares and consumables; manage inventory levels.
• Obtain and review vendor quotes; negotiate service contracts when appropriate.

• Provide technical guidance and support to vessel crews, Port Captain, and Chief Engineers.
• Assist in training crew members on equipment operation, preventive maintenance, and emergency repairs.
• Foster teamwork between shore‑based and vessel personnel.
• Manage Port Mechanics or other direct reports as appropriate.
• Interface with management for guidance on major repairs and modifications.

• Past or current USCG engineering license required (DDE 4000 HP or higher preferred).
• Bachelor's degree in Marine Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field preferred.
• Valid TWIC card and Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) required (or ability to obtain/maintain).
• Valid Driver's License.

• Minimum 5‑10 years of marine engineering experience aboard tugboats or similar vessels.
• Hands‑on maintenance and troubleshooting of propulsion and auxiliary systems.
• Strong knowledge of diesel engines, generators, electrical systems, hydraulics, and marine machinery.
• Ability to interpret technical manuals, schematics, and maintenance procedures.
• Experience working in New York Harbor or similar high‑traffic marine environments preferred.
• Familiarity with EPA Tier‑compliant engines and modern marine control/monitoring systems preferred.
• Experience managing shipyard periods and multi‑vessel maintenance planning preferred.

• Computer proficiency in Microsoft Office and maintenance/recordkeeping systems.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills; ability to work effectively with diverse teams.
• Demonstrated judgment, responsibility, initiative, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Problem‑solving mindset with strong technical troubleshooting abilities.
• Flexible schedule availability including nights, weekends, holidays, and travel as needed.

• Must be physically fit to work in confined engine spaces and aboard marine vessels.
• Frequent walking, climbing stairs/ladders, and navigating uneven surfaces.
• Sit or stand for extended periods; reach, bend, stoop, and crawl as needed.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs; occasionally more with assistance.
• Must…