The Chief Engineer – Marine Mechanical Systems is responsible for the overall technical leadership, performance management, and operational readiness of all mechanical systems onboard a vessel or across a fleet. This executive engineering role oversees propulsion, steam, HVAC, ballast, bilge, fuel, and auxiliary systems, ensuring full compliance with Class society, flag state, and international maritime regulations. The Chief Engineer leads engineering teams, manages maintenance strategy, and ensures efficient system operation to support safe and reliable vessel operation.
Lead the operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of all marine mechanical systems, including propulsion (diesel, steam, hybrid), pumps, valves, HVAC, and auxiliary systems
Ensure compliance with IMO, SOLAS, MARPOL, and Class society rules (ABS, DNV, LR, etc.) across all machinery and system operations
Supervise and manage planned maintenance system (PMS) execution and equipment overhauls during voyages and dry dockings
Act as the technical authority for mechanical failures, initiating root cause analysis and corrective actions
Oversee and maintain all critical shipboard mechanical documentation, including logs, certificates, system drawings, and regulatory records
Collaborate with ship superintendents, port engineers, and OEM reps during surveys, refits, and audits
Manage energy consumption and fuel efficiency in line with EEDI, SEEMP, and vessel sustainability goals
Mentor and lead junior engineers and crew, promoting a high standard of engineering knowledge and safety awareness
Implement and enforce onboard safety protocols, hot work permits, LOTO procedures, and confined space entry practices
Lead dry dock planning, system upgrades, and major mechanical project execution
End-to-end technical leadership of ship mechanical systems
Compliance management and Class/Flag interface
Energy efficiency and performance optimization
Mentorship and development of the engineering team
Education:
Bachelor’s degree in Marine Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or equivalent
Certificate of Competency: Chief Engineer (STCW III/2 Unlimited)
Advanced training in vessel safety management (ISM Code) and energy efficiency preferred
Experience:
15+ years of experience in marine engineering, including 5+ years as a Chief Engineer on sea-going vessels or in senior fleet maintenance roles
Hands-on experience with diesel propulsion, boilers, steam systems, pumps, valves, and HVAC plant
Experience with vessel commissioning, newbuild supervision, or retrofit projects is a plus
Technical Skills:
In-depth understanding of marine mechanical systems, condition monitoring tools, and failure diagnostics
Familiarity with vessel management systems (AMOS, TM Master, Maximo, etc.) and PMS
Competency in Class rules, inspection protocols, and statutory certification processes
Skilled in dry dock planning, spares forecasting, and budget control
Leadership Skills:
Strong team leadership, crisis management, and communication skills
Proactive decision-making and high operational integrity
Ability to coordinate cross-functional technical teams and onboard crew
Commitment to continuous improvement, safety culture, and knowledge transfer