Chief Engineer – Marine Propulsion Systems (Turbine Focus)

The Chief Engineer – Marine Propulsion Systems (Turbine Focus) is responsible for overseeing the design, integration, performance optimization, and maintenance strategies of turbine-based propulsion systems on marine vessels. This leadership role ensures technical excellence, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency across mechanical, thermal, and auxiliary subsystems of gas or steam turbine propulsion platforms.

Key Responsibilities:

• • Lead the engineering design, integration, and validation of turbine-based marine propulsion systems (gas or steam turbines, reduction gearboxes, shaft lines, and related auxiliaries).

  • Provide technical authority on all propulsion-related issues across the lifecycle—from conceptual design to shipboard commissioning and in-service support.

  • Develop and manage system performance models, including power curves, thermal efficiency, vibration analysis, and dynamic load profiles.

  • Review and approve technical specifications, P&IDs, 3D CAD layouts, FEA/CFD results, and vendor documentation.

  • Oversee turbine-related failure analysis, root cause investigations, and retrofit strategies.

  • Ensure compliance with IMO, ABS, DNV, USCG, and navy-specific propulsion standards and safety codes.

  • Collaborate with shipyard and OEM teams to supervise installation, alignment, shaft tuning, and sea trials.

  • Drive innovation and improvement in fuel economy, emission control, noise/vibration reduction, and digital monitoring (Condition-Based Maintenance systems).

  • Serve as lead engineer for turbine overhaul planning, material review boards, and lifecycle extension programs.

  • Mentor a team of propulsion engineers, guiding their technical development and alignment with strategic project goals.

  • Support commercial and naval bids with technical assessments, risk evaluations, and costing input.

Key Focus Areas:

1. Propulsion System Authority
   – Serve as the central technical leader for marine turbine propulsion performance, integrity, and reliability.

2. Integration & Optimization
   – Ensure seamless integration of turbine systems with shafting, auxiliary machinery, and automation systems.

3. Compliance & Standards
   – Enforce classification society rules, environmental requirements, and operational safety protocols.

4. Team & Program Leadership
   – Manage propulsion-focused teams across design, commissioning, and maintenance disciplines.

Qualifications and Skills:

• • Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Marine Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Turbomachinery.

  • 10+ years of experience in marine propulsion engineering with significant exposure to turbine systems (gas or steam).

  • Proven background in high-speed rotating machinery, rotor dynamics, thermodynamics, and system integration.

  • Familiarity with shaft alignment, torque and thrust measurement, gearbox analysis, and propulsion controls.

  • Hands-on experience with vibration analysis tools, condition monitoring systems, and diagnostic software.

  • Excellent understanding of IMO Tier standards, EEDI/EEXI, and compliance reporting tools.

  • Strong project leadership and documentation skills with ability to manage cross-functional teams.

Preferred:

• • Previous work with naval platforms, LNG carriers, high-speed ferries, or turbine-powered research vessels.

  • Familiarity with marine digital twins, real-time monitoring, and AI-based fault prediction systems.

  • Certification from a recognized authority (e.g., Chartered Engineer, PMP, or Six Sigma Black Belt).

  • Experience coordinating with turbine OEMs such as GE Marine, Rolls-Royce MT30, or Siemens.