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Freelance Chief Marine Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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

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

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

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

$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

$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

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

Chief Engineer

Spring Valley, 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

$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 ...

Foss Maritime

Marine Engineer - Richmond, CA

Richmond, CA · On-site

$46.55/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

About the Role As a Chief Engineer , you'll be an essential part of our mission to provide safe and reliable maritime services. You'll work alongside a dedicated team that values professionalism ...

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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Freelance Chief Marine Engineer information

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$32.5K

$92.9K

$181K

How much do freelance chief marine engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance 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.

What is a freelance chief marine engineer?

A Freelance Chief Marine Engineer is a highly skilled professional responsible for the maintenance, operation, and management of a ship's engine room and all mechanical systems, working on a contract or temporary basis rather than as a permanent crew member. They oversee engineering crew, troubleshoot technical issues, and ensure all machinery complies with safety and environmental regulations. Freelance positions allow Chief Marine Engineers to work on multiple vessels, projects, or with different companies, offering flexibility and a diverse range of experiences. This role requires strong leadership, advanced technical knowledge, and relevant maritime certifications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance chief marine engineer?

To thrive as a Freelance Chief Marine Engineer, you need an in-depth understanding of marine engineering principles, a relevant engineering degree, and marine engineering certification such as STCW III/2. Familiarity with shipboard systems, maintenance management software, and compliance with international maritime regulations is critical. Excellent problem-solving, leadership, and communication skills set top professionals apart in overseeing crews and liaising with shipowners. These competencies ensure vessel safety, operational efficiency, and regulatory compliance in a demanding, autonomous work environment.

What are the common challenges freelance chief marine engineers face when managing multiple vessel projects simultaneously?

Freelance Chief Marine Engineers often juggle several vessel assignments at once, which can present scheduling conflicts and require strong time management skills. Coordinating with various crews, adapting to different vessel systems, and ensuring compliance with diverse maritime regulations across clients are typical challenges. Effective communication and organizational abilities are key to maintaining consistent safety and operational standards, even when working remotely or on short-term contracts. Proactively building strong client relationships and keeping detailed project documentation can help mitigate these challenges.

What is the difference between Freelance Chief Marine Engineer vs Marine Engineer?

AspectFreelance Chief Marine EngineerMarine Engineer
CertificationsSTCW Chief Engineer License, Marine Engineering CertificationsSTCW Engineer License, Marine Engineering Certifications
Work EnvironmentOnboard ships, freelance basis, multiple vesselsOnboard ships, full-time or contract
Employer/Industry UsageHired by shipping companies or as independent contractorEmployed by shipping companies or ship operators

The main difference is that a Freelance Chief Marine Engineer works independently across multiple vessels, often on a contractual basis, while a Marine Engineer is typically employed full-time by a shipping company. Both roles require similar certifications and work in maritime environments, but the freelance position offers more flexibility and varied assignments.

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Cities with the most Freelance 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:

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

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The top searched job categories for Freelance Chief Marine Engineer jobs are:

Freelance Chief Marine Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Chief Marine Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 5% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $92,945 per year, or $44.7 per hour.

Chief Engineer

Astrion

El Cajon, CA • On-site

$65/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

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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