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Chief Marine Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Astrion

Chief Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$65/hr

Naval or Coast Guard Academy, as a Marine Engineer, or U.S. Naval schools or equivalent in ... USCG Chief Engineer of Steam / Motor / Gas Turbine, STCW International license and accompanying ...

Astrion

Chief Engineer

San Diego, CA

$65/hr

Naval or Coast Guard Academy, as a Marine Engineer, or U.S. Naval schools or equivalent in ... USCG Chief Engineer of Steam / Motor / Gas Turbine, STCW International license and accompanying ...

Astrion

Chief Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$65/hr

Naval or Coast Guard Academy, as a Marine Engineer, or U.S. Naval schools or equivalent in ... USCG Chief Engineer of Steam / Motor / Gas Turbine, STCW International license and accompanying ...

Astrion

Chief Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$65/hr

Naval or Coast Guard Academy, as a Marine Engineer, or U.S. Naval schools or equivalent in ... USCG Chief Engineer of Steam / Motor / Gas Turbine, STCW International license and accompanying ...

Astrion

Chief Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$65/hr

Naval or Coast Guard Academy, as a Marine Engineer, or U.S. Naval schools or equivalent in ... USCG Chief Engineer of Steam / Motor / Gas Turbine, STCW International license and accompanying ...

Astrion

Chief Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$65/hr

Naval or Coast Guard Academy, as a Marine Engineer, or U.S. Naval schools or equivalent in ... USCG Chief Engineer of Steam / Motor / Gas Turbine, STCW International license and accompanying ...

Astrion

Chief Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$65/hr

Naval or Coast Guard Academy, as a Marine Engineer, or U.S. Naval schools or equivalent in ... USCG Chief Engineer of Steam / Motor / Gas Turbine, STCW International license and accompanying ...

Astrion

Chief Engineer

El Cajon, CA · On-site

$65/hr

Naval or Coast Guard Academy, as a Marine Engineer, or U.S. Naval schools or equivalent in ... USCG Chief Engineer of Steam / Motor / Gas Turbine, STCW International license and accompanying ...

Astrion

Chief Engineer

Chula Vista, CA · On-site

$65/hr

Naval or Coast Guard Academy, as a Marine Engineer, or U.S. Naval schools or equivalent in ... USCG Chief Engineer of Steam / Motor / Gas Turbine, STCW International license and accompanying ...

Astrion

Chief Engineer

Del Mar, CA · On-site

$65/hr

Naval or Coast Guard Academy, as a Marine Engineer, or U.S. Naval schools or equivalent in ... USCG Chief Engineer of Steam / Motor / Gas Turbine, STCW International license and accompanying ...

Astrion

$65/hr

Naval or Coast Guard Academy, as a Marine Engineer, or U.S. Naval schools or equivalent in ... USCG Chief Engineer of Steam / Motor / Gas Turbine, STCW International license and accompanying ...

William and Mary

$75K/yr

Chief Engineer Department: CC00491 VIMS1 | RADV | Field Operations Job Family: Staff - Lab ... Virginia Institute of Marine Science Primary Job Posting Location: Posting Location - VIMS ...

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All JobsChief Marine Engineer Jobs

Chief Marine Engineer information

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$32.5K

$92.9K

$181K

How much do chief marine engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for chief marine 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.

How much does a Chief Engineer make on a boat?

A Chief Marine Engineer typically earns between $70,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on the vessel size, experience, and certification level. They are responsible for the maintenance and operation of the ship's propulsion and auxiliary systems and often work long shifts at sea. Salaries can vary based on the maritime industry and the country of employment.

What engineers make $500,000?

Chief Marine Engineers in the maritime industry can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills, and working on large vessels or in senior management roles. High compensation often includes offshore or international assignments, certifications, and long hours at sea.

What does a Chief Marine Engineer do?

A Chief Marine Engineer is responsible for overseeing the operation, maintenance, and repair of a ship's engine room and mechanical systems. They ensure the vessel's propulsion, power generation, and safety systems function efficiently. Their duties include supervising engineering crew, conducting inspections, troubleshooting technical issues, and ensuring compliance with maritime regulations. They also manage fuel consumption and engine performance to optimize efficiency. This role requires strong technical expertise, leadership skills, and extensive maritime experience.

What are the common challenges faced by Chief Marine Engineers aboard vessels?

Chief Marine Engineers often encounter challenges such as managing the maintenance and repair of complex machinery while at sea, ensuring compliance with stringent international maritime regulations, and leading an engineering team in high-pressure situations. They frequently work long shifts in physically demanding conditions and must troubleshoot issues quickly to minimize downtime. Effective communication with other departments, such as deck officers and shore-based management, is essential to coordinate repairs and logistical needs efficiently. These challenges require strong technical expertise, adaptability, and leadership skills to ensure both vessel safety and operational reliability.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Chief Marine Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chief Marine Engineer, you need comprehensive knowledge of marine engineering principles, vessel systems, and extensive experience supported by a relevant engineering degree and appropriate maritime certifications (such as a Chief Engineer license). Familiarity with shipboard machinery, maintenance management systems, and maritime regulatory requirements is essential. Exceptional leadership, problem-solving skills, and the ability to communicate clearly with multi-disciplinary teams are highly valued in this role. These skills ensure vessel safety, regulatory compliance, and smooth operations in often challenging marine environments.

What does a chief Marine Engineer do?

A chief Marine Engineer is responsible for overseeing the operation, maintenance, and repair of a ship's propulsion and auxiliary systems, ensuring safety and compliance with regulations. They manage engineering staff, develop maintenance schedules, and troubleshoot technical issues using tools like diagnostic equipment, often holding certifications such as a Marine Engineering License.

What is the salary of a marine Chief Engineer?

The salary of a Chief Marine Engineer typically ranges from $80,000 to $150,000 annually, depending on experience, vessel type, and geographic location. They are responsible for overseeing the engine department and ensuring the proper maintenance and operation of ship machinery.
More about Chief Marine Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Chief Marine Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Chief Marine Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Chief Marine Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Chief Marine Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Chief Marine Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Chief Marine Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Chief Marine Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Chief Marine Engineer jobs are:
Chief Marine Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chief Marine Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,945 per year, or $44.7 per hour.

Chief Engineer

Astrion

San Diego, CA • On-site

$65/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

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: 100%
COMPENSATION: Max $65/hr
Astrion has an exciting opportunity for a Chief Engineer to work full time aboard USAV Worthy.
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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