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Full Time Chief Marine Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Marine Engineer

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$101K - $139K/yr

Provide senior counsel for vessel Master and Chief Engineer to ensure that missions and voyages are ... Bachelor's Degree in Marine Engineering, Naval Architecture, Electrical Engineering, or Mechanical ...

Showing results 21-40

Full Time Chief Marine Engineer information

See salary details

$32.5K

$92.9K

$181K

How much do full time chief marine engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for full time 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 full time chief marine engineer?

Full Time Chief Marine Engineers are senior professionals responsible for overseeing the operation, maintenance, and repair of a ship's engine room and mechanical systems. They manage the engineering team, ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations, and keep all machinery running efficiently. Chief Marine Engineers play a critical role in ensuring the vessel’s propulsion, power generation, and auxiliary systems are functioning properly at all times. Their expertise is essential for the safe and smooth operation of ships, especially on long voyages.

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

To thrive as a Full Time Chief Marine Engineer, you need advanced knowledge of marine engineering principles, ship systems, and regulatory compliance, typically supported by a marine engineering degree and a Chief Engineer’s license (STCW III/2). Proficiency in using engine diagnostics, maintenance management software, and familiarity with international maritime regulations are essential. Strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help manage engineering teams and coordinate with other departments onboard. These skills ensure the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of a vessel’s machinery and systems under demanding conditions.

What are some common challenges faced by a full time chief marine engineer, and how are they typically managed?

A full-time Chief Marine Engineer often faces challenges such as maintaining complex machinery under tight schedules, ensuring compliance with stringent safety and environmental regulations, and managing a diverse engineering team. These challenges are typically addressed through regular preventive maintenance, thorough documentation, and ongoing training for the engineering crew. Effective communication with both the ship's captain and shore-based technical teams is also essential to handle unexpected technical issues and to coordinate repairs or upgrades efficiently.

What is the difference between Full Time Chief Marine Engineer vs Chief Engineer?

AspectFull Time Chief Marine EngineerChief Engineer
CertificationsSTCW Chief Engineer License, Marine Engineering CertificationsSTCW Chief Engineer License, Marine Engineering Certifications
Work EnvironmentOnboard ships, marine vesselsOnboard ships, marine vessels
Employer & Industry UsageShipping companies, maritime industryShipping companies, maritime industry
Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

The main difference between a Full Time Chief Marine Engineer and a Chief Engineer is primarily in the employment status. A Full Time Chief Marine Engineer is employed on a permanent, full-time basis onboard ships, holding the necessary marine engineering certifications. The term 'Chief Engineer' broadly refers to the same role but can also include temporary or contract positions. Both roles require similar credentials and work environments, with the key distinction being employment type and job stability.

What cities are hiring for Full Time Chief Marine Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Full Time 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:

PA, Philadelphia - Marine Engineer II

QED SYSTEMS, INC.

Bryn Mawr, PA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Q.E.D. SYSTEMS, INC., a local Marine Engineering firm has immediate full-time positions available for recent U.S. Maritime Academy Marine Engineers to provide US Navy HM&E system support and alterations services.
Job Requirements/skill sets: Have a basic understanding of US Navy Hull, Mechanical and Electrical Systems (HM&E), Electronics Systems, Combat Systems or marine systems. Duties include:
  • Supporting Navy system redesign and shipboard alterations and installations
  • Supporting Navy fleet support and in-service engineering
  • Conduct Navy vessel ship checks
  • Willingness to travel up to 20% of the time
  • All other duties as assigned.

Education Requirements:
  • BS degree in Marine, Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering, or related engineering degree from a U.S. Maritime Academy
  • US Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential desired but not required

Security Clearance:
Candidate will currently possess or be able to obtain at a minimum a Secret Government security clearance. Drug screening is required before hiring.
EOE, including disability/vets : QED is an equal opportunity employer.