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Chief Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Chief Engineer USCG Chief Engineer Unlimited Maritime Talent Solutions is on the lookout for dedicated Chief Engineers ready to elevate their career in the maritime sector. Ideal candidates will ...

Chief Engineer

El Cajon, CA ยท On-site

$65/hr

Overview Chief Engineer (Permanent Party) LOCATION: San Diego, CA JOB STATUS: Full Time PCS to Kwajalein (permanent change of station) CLEARANCE: background check/CAC card CERTIFICATION: USCG TRAVEL ...

Chief Engineer

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$65/hr

Overview Chief Engineer (Permanent Party) LOCATION: San Diego, CA JOB STATUS: Full Time PCS to Kwajalein (permanent change of station) CLEARANCE: background check/CAC card CERTIFICATION: USCG TRAVEL ...

Chief Engineer

Chula Vista, CA ยท On-site

$65/hr

Overview Chief Engineer (Permanent Party) LOCATION: San Diego, CA JOB STATUS: Full Time PCS to Kwajalein (permanent change of station) CLEARANCE: background check/CAC card CERTIFICATION: USCG TRAVEL ...

Chief Engineer

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$65/hr

Overview Chief Engineer (Permanent Party) LOCATION: San Diego, CA JOB STATUS: Full Time PCS to Kwajalein (permanent change of station) CLEARANCE: background check/CAC card CERTIFICATION: USCG TRAVEL ...

Overview Chief Engineer (Permanent Party) LOCATION: Kwajalein Army Garrison (Marshall Islands) JOB STATUS: Full Time PCS to Kwajalein (permanent change of station) CLEARANCE: background check/CAC ...

Chief Engineer

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$65/hr

Overview Chief Engineer (Permanent Party) LOCATION: San Diego, CA JOB STATUS: Full Time PCS to Kwajalein (permanent change of station) CLEARANCE: background check/CAC card CERTIFICATION: USCG TRAVEL ...

Chief Engineer

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$65/hr

Overview Chief Engineer (Permanent Party) LOCATION: San Diego, CA JOB STATUS: Full Time PCS to Kwajalein (permanent change of station) CLEARANCE: background check/CAC card CERTIFICATION: USCG TRAVEL ...

Chief Engineer

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$65/hr

Overview Chief Engineer (Permanent Party) LOCATION: San Diego, CA JOB STATUS: Full Time PCS to Kwajalein (permanent change of station) CLEARANCE: background check/CAC card CERTIFICATION: USCG TRAVEL ...

Chief Engineer

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$65/hr

Overview Chief Engineer (Permanent Party) LOCATION: San Diego, CA JOB STATUS: Full Time PCS to Kwajalein (permanent change of station) CLEARANCE: background check/CAC card CERTIFICATION: USCG TRAVEL ...

Chief Engineer

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$65/hr

Overview Chief Engineer (Permanent Party) LOCATION: San Diego, CA JOB STATUS: Full Time PCS to Kwajalein (permanent change of station) CLEARANCE: background check/CAC card CERTIFICATION: USCG TRAVEL ...

Chief Engineer

Seattle, WA ยท On-site

$64 - $65/hr

Overview Chief Engineer (Permanent Party) LOCATION: Kwajalein Army Garrison (Marshall Islands) JOB STATUS: Full Time PCS to Kwajalein (permanent change of station) CLEARANCE: background check/CAC ...

Overview Chief Engineer (Permanent Party) LOCATION: San Diego, CA JOB STATUS: Full Time PCS to Kwajalein (permanent change of station) CLEARANCE: background check/CAC card CERTIFICATION: USCG TRAVEL ...

Overview Chief Engineer (Permanent Party) LOCATION: Kwajalein Army Garrison (Marshall Islands) JOB STATUS: Full Time PCS to Kwajalein (permanent change of station) CLEARANCE: background check/CAC ...

Chief Engineer

Del Mar, CA ยท On-site

$65/hr

Overview Chief Engineer (Permanent Party) LOCATION: San Diego, CA JOB STATUS: Full Time PCS to Kwajalein (permanent change of station) CLEARANCE: background check/CAC card CERTIFICATION: USCG TRAVEL ...

Chief Engineer

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$65/hr

Overview Chief Engineer (Permanent Party) LOCATION: San Diego, CA JOB STATUS: Full Time PCS to Kwajalein (permanent change of station) CLEARANCE: background check/CAC card CERTIFICATION: USCG TRAVEL ...

Chief Engineer

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$65/hr

Overview Chief Engineer (Permanent Party) LOCATION: San Diego, CA JOB STATUS: Full Time PCS to Kwajalein (permanent change of station) CLEARANCE: background check/CAC card CERTIFICATION: USCG TRAVEL ...

Overview Chief Engineer (Permanent Party) LOCATION: Kwajalein Army Garrison (Marshall Islands) JOB STATUS: Full Time PCS to Kwajalein (permanent change of station) CLEARANCE: background check/CAC ...

Chief Engineer

Spring Valley, CA ยท On-site

$65/hr

Overview Chief Engineer (Permanent Party) LOCATION: San Diego, CA JOB STATUS: Full Time PCS to Kwajalein (permanent change of station) CLEARANCE: background check/CAC card CERTIFICATION: USCG TRAVEL ...

Chief Engineer

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$65/hr

Overview Chief Engineer (Permanent Party) LOCATION: San Diego, CA JOB STATUS: Full Time PCS to Kwajalein (permanent change of station) CLEARANCE: background check/CAC card CERTIFICATION: USCG TRAVEL ...

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Chief Engineer information

See salary details

$32.5K

$92.9K

$181K

How much do chief engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for chief engineer in the United States is $92,945.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,000.00 and $120,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a chief engineer do?

A Chief Engineer is responsible for overseeing the engineering operations of an organization or project. They lead engineering teams, manage technical projects, and ensure that systems and infrastructure are maintained and improved according to industry standards. Chief Engineers also develop policies, coordinate with other departments, and solve complex technical problems to support the organization's goals. Their role often involves budgeting, staff management, and ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory requirements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a chief engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chief Engineer, you need advanced engineering expertise, leadership experience, and a relevant degree such as a bachelor's or master's in engineering. Familiarity with project management tools, CAD software, and relevant certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) licensure are typically required. Outstanding problem-solving, communication, and team management skills help drive innovation and ensure smooth coordination across engineering teams. These skills and qualifications are crucial for overseeing complex projects, maintaining high technical standards, and achieving organizational goals.

What are some common challenges chief engineers face when managing multidisciplinary engineering teams?

Chief Engineers often oversee teams that include specialists from various engineering disciplines, which can present challenges in aligning different technical perspectives and ensuring effective communication. Balancing project deadlines, resource allocation, and maintaining quality standards while navigating these differences is a frequent part of the role. Successful Chief Engineers foster strong collaboration, facilitate knowledge sharing, and implement standardized processes to address these challenges. They also play a key role in mentoring junior engineers and promoting professional development within the team.

What is the difference between Chief Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectChief EngineerMechanical Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, professional engineering license, leadership experienceEngineering degree, possibly licensure, technical skills
Work EnvironmentProject management, overseeing teams, strategic planningDesign, analysis, testing, and development of mechanical systems
Industry UsageConstruction, manufacturing, shipbuilding, aerospaceManufacturing, automotive, HVAC, robotics
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

The main difference between a Chief Engineer and a Mechanical Engineer lies in their responsibilities and seniority. The Chief Engineer typically oversees projects, manages teams, and ensures technical standards at a strategic level, often requiring leadership experience and licensure. Mechanical Engineers focus on designing, analyzing, and developing mechanical systems, working on technical tasks without the managerial responsibilities of a Chief Engineer. Both roles are vital in engineering industries, but the Chief Engineer holds a higher-level, supervisory position.

How much does a chief engineer earn?

A chief engineer's salary varies depending on industry, location, and experience, but typically ranges from $80,000 to $150,000 annually. They often hold advanced technical skills and certifications, such as Professional Engineer (PE) licenses, which can influence compensation.

What cities are hiring for Chief Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Chief Engineer job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Chief Engineer jobs?

The most popular types of Chief Engineer jobs are:

Who are the top companies hiring for Chief Engineer jobs?

The top employers for Chief Engineer jobs are:

What states have the most Chief Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Chief Engineer jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Chief Engineer jobs?

For Chief Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Chief Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 92% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,945 per year, or $44.7 per hour.

Chief Engineer

Washington, DC โ€ข On-site

Other

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

Chief Engineer

USCG Chief Engineer Unlimited Maritime Talent Solutions is on the lookout for dedicated Chief Engineers ready to elevate their career in the maritime sector. Ideal candidates will bring a wealth of experience from the maritime industry, particularly those with a background in salvage, towing, emergency response, and operations aboard conventional ocean-going tug/anchor handling vessels. This opportunity focuses on mainland US Coastal Waters, the Gulf of Mexico, and the NW Pacific/Alaska regions, requiring at least 2 years of experience in a Chief Engineer role.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Oversee engine room operations and ensure adherence to safety protocols and regulations.
  • Lead and supervise the engineering department, managing maintenance, and operational efficiency of the vessel's machinery, including the main engine.
  • Ensure compliance with environmental and safety management systems.
  • Collaborate with technical teams on maintenance, dry-docking, and repairs.
  • Actively participate in the vessel's safety, discipline, and regulatory compliance.

Requirements:

  • U.S. Citizenship with a valid passport and Chief Engineer USCG License with endorsements.
  • Minimum 2 years experience as a Chief Engineer, with knowledge of USCG/ABS/ISM/ISPS regulations.
  • Strong leadership, communication, and teamwork skills, with a commitment to safety and quality.
  • Physical ability to perform tasks onboard, including emergency response readiness.
  • Proficiency in Word, Excel, and experience with specific engine types and marine equipment.

The role includes onboard duties and may require international travel based on the vessel's schedule. Maritime Talent Solutions values a positive attitude and commitment to safety and excellence. We offer a dynamic working environment where respect, safety, and collaboration are key to our success. Candidates must meet physical and medical requirements, including drug and background checks, in compliance with maritime regulations. Join us to be a part of a leading team committed to excellence and innovation in the maritime industry.