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Chief Engineer Unlimited Jobs (NOW HIRING)

McAllister Towing

Chief Engineer

Port Jefferson, NY · On-site

$828.28/day

The Bridgeport Port Jefferson Ferry is seeking highly qualified Chief Engineers (Unlimited HP). Duties and responsibilities are outlined below. Chief Engineer Reports to: * The Chief Engineer ...

McAllister Towing

Chief Engineer

Port Jefferson, NY · On-site

$828.28/day

The Bridgeport Port Jefferson Ferry is seeking highly qualified Chief Engineers (Unlimited HP). Duties and responsibilities are outlined below. Chief Engineer Reports to: * The Chief Engineer ...

matson

Vessel Engineering Manager

Tacoma, WA · On-site

$132K - $190K/yr

Licensed USCG Chief Engineer, Unlimited Steam and Motor (First Assistant or Chief Engineer preferred). * Familiarity with all aspects of vessel operations and technical management for modern US flag ...

Andrie Crew

Relief Chief Engineer

Muskegon, MI · On-site

Possess a valid USCG Engineers License with a minimum of Chief Engineer Limited or a DDE Unlimited * Valid CPR, First Aid, and Fire Fighting Certificates * Knowledge of all vessel systems; hydraulic ...

Andrie LLC

Relief Chief Engineer

Possess a valid USCG Engineers License with a minimum of Chief Engineer Limited or a DDE Unlimited * Valid CPR, First Aid, and Fire Fighting Certificates * Knowledge of all vessel systems; hydraulic ...

matson

Vessel Engineering Manager

Oakland, CA · On-site

$132K - $190K/yr

Licensed USCG Chief Engineer, Unlimited Steam and Motor (First Assistant or Chief Engineer preferred). * Familiarity with all aspects of vessel operations and technical management for modern US flag ...

CP Group

Assistant Chief Engineer

Miami, FL · On-site

Chief Engineer Positions Supervises: Building Engineers SUMMARY: The Assistant Chief Engineer is ... Unlimited vacation, summer Fridays, and 9 company holidays * Company-paid life and disability ...

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Chief Engineer Unlimited information

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$92.9K

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How much do chief engineer unlimited jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for chief engineer unlimited 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Chief Engineer Unlimited, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chief Engineer Unlimited, you need deep knowledge of marine engineering, strong leadership abilities, and a valid STCW III/2 Chief Engineer Unlimited license. Expertise in shipboard machinery, engine room management systems, and compliance with international maritime regulations is essential. Excellent problem-solving, communication, and decision-making skills distinguish top performers in this role. These competencies are crucial to ensuring vessel safety, operational efficiency, and regulatory compliance at sea.

What is a Chief Engineer Unlimited?

A Chief Engineer Unlimited is the senior-most engineering officer on a ship, responsible for the overall operation and maintenance of all onboard engineering systems. The 'Unlimited' designation means they are certified to serve on vessels of any size and propulsion power, without restrictions. Their duties include supervising the engineering crew, ensuring compliance with safety regulations, and overseeing the maintenance and repair of engines, electrical systems, and other critical machinery. Chief Engineers also play a key role in ship management, budgeting for repairs, and ensuring efficient fuel and resource use. They must hold a valid Chief Engineer Unlimited license, which requires extensive sea time, training, and certification exams.

What is the difference between Chief Engineer Unlimited vs Chief Engineer Limited?

AspectChief Engineer UnlimitedChief Engineer Limited
CertificationsUnlimited license, allowing operation on any vesselLimited license, restricted to specific vessel types or tonnage
Work EnvironmentWorks on various ships, often in offshore or international settingsTypically assigned to specific vessels or fleets with restrictions
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in shipping, offshore, and maritime industriesUsed in similar industries but with vessel-specific licensing

The main difference between Chief Engineer Unlimited and Chief Engineer Limited lies in licensing and operational scope. An Unlimited license allows the chief engineer to serve on any vessel without restrictions, while a Limited license restricts operation to certain vessel types or tonnage. Both roles are essential in maritime industries, but the Unlimited license offers greater flexibility and career opportunities.

What are some of the key challenges Chief Engineer Unlimiteds typically face when managing large vessel operations?

Chief Engineer Unlimiteds often encounter challenges such as maintaining complex machinery in harsh marine environments, coordinating repairs during tight schedules, and ensuring compliance with international safety and environmental regulations. They must also manage multicultural engineering teams, balancing workloads and fostering effective communication. Proactive planning, adaptability, and strong leadership skills are essential to address unexpected breakdowns and maintain vessel efficiency.
More about Chief Engineer Unlimited jobs
What job categories do people searching Chief Engineer Unlimited jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Chief Engineer Unlimited jobs are:
Chief Engineer Unlimited jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chief Engineer Unlimited job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,945 per year, or $44.7 per hour.

Chief Engineer Unlimited

Stabbert Offshore Crew

Seattle, WA • On-site

$171K - $192K/yr

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

Description:

Stabbert Maritime is a family-owned company with a proud legacy spanning over 50 years and two generations. We provide a comprehensive range of innovative solutions and support services to clients in the offshore scientific research, subsea, defense, and ship repair industries. Our diverse operational fleet serves the science, research, offshore energy, defense, and renewable energy sectors, delivering reliable and specialized maritime services. Stabbert is currently looking for a Chief Engineer to join our fleet.

Position Summary:

The Chief Engineer leads the engineering department, supervises maintenance activities, manages technical resources, and supports the safe and reliable operations of the vessel. This role requires extensive technical expertise, leadership skills and a thorough understanding of marine engineering regulations and safety protocols.

Essential Functions:

  • Responsible for the safe operation of all machinery, electrical, and technical areas of the vessel.
  • Manage and direct the engineering department.
  • Ensure vessel’s engineering department adheres to all safety and flag requirements.
  • Plan and prioritize work for the engineering department with the highest regard for safety.
  • Manage daily maintenance of engineering systems.
  • Ensure that main engines and associated machinery including electrical, refrigeration, air conditioning units on board the ship are operating efficiently.
  • Implement and maintain preventative maintenance schedule.
  • Maintain engine room stores and record usage of parts and equipment.
  • Keep detailed engine room logs.
  • Responsible for all engineering aspects of the SMS.
Requirements:

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

  • Ability to analyze problems via communication while a vessel is at sea or in a remote location.
  • Good communication and interpersonal skills; capable of maintaining strong relationships both with the team and customers.
  • Time management skills with the ability to meet deadlines.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
  • Must be well-organized, detail and customer-oriented (internal and external), self-starter, self-motivated, prioritize duties, and follow through with tasks to completion as necessary.
  • Working knowledge in MS Office and Adobe DC.

Education and/or Requirements:

  • License Requirements – USCG Chief Engineer Unlimited
  • Valid STCW certifications
  • Must have a US Passport
  • Minimum five (5) years experience as Chief Engineer
  • Working knowledge of DP systems
  • Working knowledge of Maintenance Systems
  • Experience with diesel electric system
  • Ability to troubleshoot mechanical and electrical systems
  • Basic knowledge of electrical, refrigeration, air conditioning, and hydraulic system
  • Results-oriented, self-starter with a high level of initiative
  • Strong ability to organize and communicate with others
  • Strong work ethics, values, and principles with safety the first priority

Position Content

This job description is not intended to be and should not be construed as an all-inclusive list of all the responsibilities, skills, and working conditions associated with the positions. While it is intended to accurately reflect the position activities and requirements, these requirements may change over time. Management reserves the right to modify, add or remove duties and assign other duties as necessary.


Stabbert Maritime is a family-owned and operated maritime company. We take pride in our vessels, teams, and the ability to think outside the box to solve our customers' needs. If you are looking to be part of a dynamic team with a company that focuses on its people and understands the importance of quality and work-life balance, please send your resume.

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