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Chief Engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA (NOW HIRING)

Astrion

Chief Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

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 ...

New

Astrion

Chief Engineer

Seattle, WA

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 ...

New

Astrion

Chief Engineer-Seattle, Washington

Gorst, WA · On-site

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 ...

Posted today

Astrion

Chief Engineer-Seattle, Washington

Vashon, WA

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 ...

Posted today

ABM Industries

Assistant Chief Engineer

Seattle, WA

$61.64/wk

Under the supervision of Chief Engineer, directs the activities of engineering staff and associated service contractors required to provide maintenance of the buildings, grounds, and related fixed ...

ABM Industries

Assistant Chief Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$61.64/hr

Under the supervision of Chief Engineer, directs the activities of engineering staff and associated service contractors required to provide maintenance of the buildings, grounds, and related fixed ...

CBRE

Chief Engineer

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$130K/yr

As a CBRE Chief Engineer, you'll oversee building systems, preventive maintenance programs, budgets, and a skilled technical team supporting a mission-critical campus. This role blends hands-on ...

Zeno Power

Chief Engineer - Maritime

Seattle, WA

$195K - $230K/yr

Chief Engineer Zeno is seeking a highly motivated Chief Engineer - Maritime to support the mission-oriented efforts of developing and bringing to market Radioisotope Power Systems (RPS) technologies.

Zeno Power

Chief Engineer - Maritime

Seattle, WA · On-site

$195 - $230/hr

Chief Engineer Zeno is seeking a highly motivated Chief Engineer - Maritime to support the mission-oriented efforts of developing and bringing to market Radioisotope Power Systems (RPS) technologies.

Zeno Power

Chief Engineer - Maritime

Seattle, WA · On-site

$195K - $230K/yr

Chief Engineer Zeno is seeking a highly motivated Chief Engineer - Maritime to support the mission-oriented efforts of developing and bringing to market Radioisotope Power Systems (RPS) technologies.

Zeno Power

Chief Engineer - Maritime

Seattle, WA · On-site

$195K - $230K/yr

Chief Engineer Zeno is seeking a highly motivated Chief Engineer - Maritime to support the mission-oriented efforts of developing and bringing to market Radioisotope Power Systems (RPS) technologies.

ABM Industries

Assistant Chief Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$61.64/hr

Under the supervision of Chief Engineer, directs the activities of engineering staff and associated service contractors required to provide maintenance of the buildings, grounds, and related fixed ...

CBRE

Chief Engineer

Redmond, WA · On-site

$57/hr

As a CBRE Chief Building Engineer, you'll oversee building systems, preventive maintenance programs, budgets, and a skilled technical team supporting a mission-critical campus. This role blends hands ...

Stonebridge Companies

Chief Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$115 - $140/hr

Chief Engineer Location: Seattle, WA FLSA: Exempt Status: Full-time Reports to: General Manager Supervises: Maintenance Department Pay Range: $115,000 - $140,000 Job Summary The Chief Engineer ...

Stonebridge Companies

Chief Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$125K - $150K/yr

Chief Engineer Location: Seattle, WA FLSA: Exempt Status: Full-time Reports to: General Manager Supervises: Maintenance Department Pay Range: $125,000 -$150,000 Job Summary: The Area Chief Engineer ...

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All JobsChief Engineer JobsChief Engineer Jobs in Seattle, WA

Chief Engineer information

See Seattle, WA salary details

$37K

$105.8K

$206K

How much do chief engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for chief engineer in Seattle, WA is $105,774.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,100.00 and $136,600.00 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.
More about Chief Engineer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Chief Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA?

The most popular types of Chief Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA are:

What are popular job titles related to Chief Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA?

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

What job categories do people searching Chief Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Chief Engineer jobs in Seattle, WA are:

What cities near Seattle, WA are hiring for Chief Engineer jobs?

Cities near Seattle, WA with the most Chief Engineer job openings:

Chief Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chief Engineer job openings in Seattle, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $105,774 per year, or $50.9 per hour.

Chief Engineer

Astrion

Seattle, WA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

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 card
CERTIFICATION: USCG
TRAVEL: 100%
Astrion has an exciting opportunity for a Chief Engineer to work full time aboard USAV Worthy, Kwajalein, Marshall Islands. Astrion has worked extensively at Kwajalein where it has earned a reputation for on-time delivery of high-quality products tailored to the needs of its clients. USAV Worthy is homeported in Kwajalein and provides instrumentation and data collection services to the Reagan Test Site. The Chief Engineer will reside on Kwajalein Atoll. Housing is provided.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS / SKILLS
Education:
  • Must have a High School diploma or equivalent.
  • Graduate of a state or federal Maritime Academy, or U.S. Naval or Coast Guard Academy, as a Marine Engineer, or U.S. Naval schools or equivalent in Propulsion; Machinist Mate; Engineman; Damage Control; Air Conditioning and Refrigeration; etc.
    • A total of five (5) years of experience as a licensed Chief Engineer aboard comparable or larger vessels may be substituted for the formal education requirement.

Experience:
  • A total of five (5) years of experience as a licensed Chief Engineer aboard comparable or larger vessels

Certifications:
  • US Coast Guard license as Chief Engineer of inspected motor vessels operating on oceans, on vessels powered by not less than 2500 HP. USCG Chief Engineer of Steam / Motor / Gas Turbine, STCW International license and accompanying endorsements.
  • Ability to pass a federal background check to obtain and hold a DoD Common Access Card (CAC). Current U.S. Citizenship Required
  • Ability to pass a post offer drug screen and physical/medical clearance.
  • Current and Valid U.S. Passport*.

*(Passport, MMC/MMD, and med cert must have minimum of 6 months of validity prior to placement, or proof of renewal in progress.)
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS / SKILLS
  • Experience or background in government/public vessel operations.
  • Experience with vessels in a reduced operating status (ROS).
  • Background in supporting US Army requirements as it pertains to ocean going vessels.
  • Experience with diesel electric propulsion systems.
  • Knowledge of common safety practices and protective equipment used on an ocean-going vessel.
  • Self-starter, team player and conscientious worker.

RESPONSIBILITIES
The Chief Engineer on the vessel and must work closely with the vessel Master, Chief Mate, and other personnel involved with vessel operations including RGNEXT range safety personnel and embarked personnel. The USAV Worthy is a 200 ft long, 1,483 ton, special purpose vessel with a diesel electric propulsion system and a bow thruster. She typically carries a crew of 13 and up to 20 embarked mission personnel. Operates and maintains the assigned vessel's propulsion and auxiliary engineering systems.
  • Work with the vessel Master and the Chief Mate in executing the USAV Worthy maintenance program. Oversee the maintenance and upkeep of the vessel's systems in accordance with applicable standards and regulations.
  • Determine, source, and order parts, supplies, and material requirements for job accomplishment.
  • Accurately inputs O&M data, as well as projects long range maintenance issues.
  • Ensures the vessel maintains ABS Load-line and U.S. Army standards.
  • Remains on standby/recall status to the vessel during dockside periods, as needed.
  • Participates in the vessels off site OCCM (On-Condition Cyclic Maintenance) Dry-docking on a three-year basis
  • Supervises engineering team including permanent crew and surge crew. Aids in training and development of crew members.
  • Reports to the Master and the RGNEXT Technical lead for Range and Mission Safety.
  • Coordinates with mission staff (supernumeraries) and other personnel on Kwajalein for logistics, provisioning, re-stocking, and requesting maintenance activities for the vessel.
  • Ensures the vessel maintains ABS Load-line and U.S. Army standards.
  • Ensure logbooks and records are maintained and accurately completed.
  • Complies with and enforces safety regulations, guidelines, policies and procedures both within the Astrion polices and the relevant and applicable RGNEXT OSHE policies: including but not limited to RGNEXT OSHE hearing conservation and respiratory protection programs.
  • Ensures the vessel is operated and navigated in accordance with applicable US laws/regulations and host nation laws/regulations.
  • Perform Fire and Emergency duties associated with the Chief Engineer's billet on Ship's Station Bill.

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