The Director of Marine Engineering Operations leads all aspects of engineering execution, fleet technical performance, and lifecycle support across a portfolio of commercial or defense maritime assets. This role is responsible for aligning engineering resources, maintenance programs, modernization efforts, and technical compliance with business goals and regulatory standards. The director ensures operational readiness, cost-efficiency, and technical excellence across both shore-based and afloat engineering functions, serving as the senior liaison between operations, engineering, logistics, and executive leadership.
Direct and manage engineering operations for vessel fleets, shipyards, or mission-critical marine systems
Ensure technical performance, system reliability, and compliance with IMO, SOLAS, MARPOL, ABS, DNV, and military standards (if applicable)
Oversee condition assessments, root cause analyses, technical audits, and repair planning
Lead strategies for equipment standardization, obsolescence management, and technical documentation integrity
Manage lifecycle engineering programs for propulsion, power generation, HVAC, auxiliary systems, hull integrity, and combat systems (if defense sector)
Coordinate with port engineers, chief engineers, and OEMs for maintenance, dry-docking, upgrades, and emergent repairs
Develop and oversee technical KPIs, predictive maintenance protocols, and fleet engineering dashboards
Implement initiatives for fuel efficiency, emissions reduction, digital monitoring, and sustainability
Act as the engineering liaison to executive management, operations, supply chain, and program offices
Participate in capital planning, contract review, and shipbuilding or modernization oversight
Represent the company in front of flag states, classification societies, government customers, or defense stakeholders
Drive continuous improvement in engineering workflow, CMMS/PMS integration, and lifecycle planning
Lead and mentor a multidisciplinary team of marine engineers, technical superintendents, reliability leads, and systems specialists
Promote a culture of safety, technical excellence, and responsive service
Oversee training, certification, and performance development across the technical workforce
Fleet technical operations and engineering resource management
Governance of maintenance, reliability, and modernization programs
Integration of compliance, safety, and digital transformation
Leadership across commercial shipping or naval support operations
Education:
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Marine Engineering, Naval Architecture, Mechanical Engineering, or related discipline
U.S. Coast Guard License (e.g., Chief Engineer) or equivalent naval/merchant certification preferred
Additional credentials in project management, defense acquisition, or executive leadership are advantageous
Experience:
15+ years of experience in marine engineering or ship operations, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role
Extensive background in technical operations, dry-docking, class surveys, and maintenance programs
Experience with military vessels, government fleets, or complex commercial platforms (e.g., LNG carriers, offshore support vessels)
Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams in high-stakes operational environments
Technical Expertise:
Deep knowledge of marine mechanical, propulsion, and fluid systems, including troubleshooting and upgrades
Familiarity with PMS/CMMS platforms, class documentation systems, and condition monitoring tools
Understanding of contractor oversight, OEM engagement, and engineering quality assurance
Soft Skills:
Strong strategic thinking and cross-departmental coordination
Excellent communication and reporting skills for internal and external stakeholders
Resilient, decisive leader capable of navigating urgent operational challenges and long-term planning