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Offshore Chief Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... positioned (DP) offshore construction vessel. This position serves as the primary shore-side ... Chief Engineers * Engineers * Electricians * Bosuns * Able Seamen * Oilers * Motormen * Other ...

Chief Mate Unlimited

Seattle, WA · On-site

$157K - $163K/yr

Our diverse operational fleet serves the science, research, offshore energy, defense, and renewable ... and First Engineers for technical equipment maintenance and repair. * Responsible for the ...

... offshore energy solutions, including traditional energy and offshore wind projects. Our primary ... About the Role As a Chief Engineer , you'll be an essential part of our mission to provide safe and ...

Chief Engineers are to ensure full handover is completed with the oncoming Chief Engineer and documented using the Engineer Turnover Report in Checklist Work Environment * Work in locations not ...

You'll work closely with Founder/CEO, CTO, Head of Sales and in-house and offshore engineering teams to shape multiple product lines set for launch in 2026. Role & Responsibilities: · Partner with ...

... Engineering to align priorities and drive execution ... Build and manage scrappy operational capacity where needed, including vendors, offshore support ...

Data Engineering Manager

Dallas, TX · On-site

$113K - $136K/yr

Strong executive presence; comfortable reporting to AVPs, CIO, and executive steering committees ... Attend and contribute to daily scrums with onshore, offshore, and Deloitte engineers, ensuring ...

... offshore, research, and industrial sectors. Our success is built on technical excellence, strong ... Build and maintain strong working relationships with vessel Captains, Chief Engineers, and crew ...

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Offshore Chief Engineer information

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$32.5K

$92.9K

$181K

How much do offshore chief engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for offshore chief 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Offshore Chief Engineer position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Offshore Chief Engineer, you need extensive knowledge of marine engineering, mechanical systems, and safety management, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree and significant maritime experience. Familiarity with engine room operations, computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS), and certifications such as STCW and COE are essential. Strong leadership, effective problem-solving, and clear communication are key soft skills for managing crew and responding to emergencies. These competencies are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient vessel operations and compliance with rigorous offshore regulations.

What does a typical work schedule or rotation look like for an Offshore Chief Engineer?

Offshore Chief Engineers usually work on a rotational schedule, such as 4 weeks on and 4 weeks off, though specifics can vary depending on the employer and region. During their time offshore, they are responsible for overseeing all engine room operations, coordinating maintenance, and ensuring safety compliance 24/7. The role involves close collaboration with the offshore installation manager, deck officers, and engineering crew to keep operations running smoothly. Extended periods away from home are balanced by substantial time off between rotations, making the schedule appealing to those seeking blocks of personal time.

What does an Offshore Chief Engineer do?

An Offshore Chief Engineer is responsible for overseeing the mechanical and technical operations of a vessel, rig, or offshore installation. They ensure the proper maintenance, repair, and functioning of all engineering systems, including engines, power generation, and safety equipment. Their duties include managing engineering staff, ensuring compliance with safety regulations, and troubleshooting technical issues. They play a crucial role in maintaining operational efficiency and preventing mechanical failures that could impact offshore activities.

More about Offshore Chief Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Offshore Chief Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Offshore Chief Engineer job openings:
What states have the most Offshore Chief Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Offshore Chief Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Offshore Chief Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Offshore Chief Engineer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Offshore Chief Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Part Time. 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.

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Port Engineer
Reports To: General Manager Operations
Department: Operations Onshore
Basic Function: Provide specialized marine and vessel operational support.
Position Summary
The Port Engineer is responsible for the overall technical, operational, and personnel management of a dynamically positioned (DP) offshore construction vessel. This position serves as the primary shore-side representative for the vessel, ensuring safe, efficient, and cost-effective operations while maintaining compliance with all regulatory, client, and company requirements.
In addition to traditional port engineering responsibilities, the Port Engineer has direct responsibility for the recruitment, hiring, performance management, discipline, retention, and termination of all marine personnel assigned to the vessel, including deck, engine, and DP operations personnel.
The successful candidate will possess strong marine engineering expertise, vessel management experience, and proven leadership capabilities in offshore construction and DP vessel operations.
Technical and Vessel Management
  • Manage all technical aspects of vessel operations, maintenance, and repair activities.
  • Develop and oversee planned maintenance programs for hull, machinery, DP systems, and auxiliary equipment.
  • Coordinate dry dockings, shipyard projects, vessel upgrades, and major repair periods.
  • Monitor vessel performance, reliability, fuel consumption, and operating costs.
  • Review and approve maintenance plans, work scopes, and procurement requests.
  • Ensure vessel readiness to meet project schedules and client requirements.
  • Coordinate technical support between vessel personnel, vendors, classification societies, and regulatory authorities.
  • Manage vessel budgets related to maintenance, repairs, spare parts, and capital expenditures.
  • Investigate equipment failures and implement corrective and preventive actions.
  • Ensure DP equipment, critical redundancy systems, and mission equipment are maintained to the highest operational standards.

Marine Personnel Management
  • Lead all recruitment efforts for marine personnel assigned to the vessel.
  • Interview, evaluate, and select qualified candidates for positions including:
    • Masters
    • Chief Officers
    • DP Operators
    • Chief Engineers
    • Engineers
    • Electricians
    • Bosuns
    • Able Seamen
    • Oilers
    • Motormen
    • Other marine crew positions
  • Maintain staffing levels to ensure uninterrupted vessel operations.
  • Verify qualifications, certifications, licenses, and competency requirements.
  • Establish and maintain succession planning and crew development programs.
  • Conduct performance evaluations and competency assessments.
  • Manage employee relations and crew welfare matters.
  • Administer disciplinary actions in accordance with company policies and applicable regulations.
  • Make recommendations and decisions regarding promotions, transfers, demotions, and terminations.
  • Coordinate crew scheduling, rotations, travel, and relief planning.
  • Ensure compliance with flag state, STCW, MLC, and company manning requirements.
  • Foster a positive safety culture and professional work environment onboard.

Operational Oversight
  • Support vessel mobilizations, demobilizations, and offshore project execution.
  • Participate in operational planning meetings with project teams and vessel management.
  • Monitor vessel operational readiness and project performance.
  • Ensure adequate inventory of critical spare parts, consumables, and equipment.
  • Coordinate emergency response support and incident investigations.
  • Review and approve vessel reports, maintenance records, and operational documentation.

Compliance and Safety
  • Ensure compliance with:
    • International Maritime Organization (IMO) regulations
    • Classification Society requirements
    • Flag State regulations
    • ISM Code
    • ISPS Code
    • MLC requirements
    • Company safety management systems
    • Client-specific requirements
  • Participate in vessel audits, inspections, and management reviews.
  • Monitor corrective actions resulting from audits, inspections, incidents, and non-conformances.
  • Promote continuous improvement in safety, environmental stewardship, and operational performance.

Required Qualifications/Experience
• Chief Engineer Unlimited License, First Assistant Engineer Unlimited License, or equivalent marine engineering qualification preferred.
• Minimum 7-10 years of maritime industry experience.
• Minimum 3-5 years of vessel management, port engineering, or superintendent experience.
• Experience with DP Class 2 and/or DP Class 3 vessels.
• Experience supporting offshore construction, subsea, heavy-lift, or installation vessels.
• Strong understanding of vessel maintenance management systems.
• Demonstrated experience in personnel management, recruitment, and workforce leadership.
• Knowledge of maritime regulations, classification requirements, and offshore industry standards.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and vessel maintenance software systems.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience managing offshore construction vessels exceeding 90 meters in length.
  • Familiarity with Kongsberg, Wärtsilä, or equivalent DP systems.
  • Experience with marine project operations in offshore oil and gas or renewable energy sectors.
  • Budget management and capital project experience.
  • Previous shore-side superintendent or fleet management experience.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Strong leadership and decision-making capabilities.
  • Excellent organizational and project management skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic offshore environment.
  • Strong technical troubleshooting and analytical skills.
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to lead diverse, multinational crews.
  • Strong conflict resolution and personnel management skills.
  • Ability to travel domestically and internationally on short notice.
  • Commitment to safety, operational excellence, and regulatory compliance.

Physical and Travel Requirements
  • Ability to board vessels and access machinery spaces.
  • Ability to travel frequently to vessel locations, shipyards, and project sites.
  • Primary work location is in the office but must have ability to work in offshore and industrial environments when required.
  • Valid passport and ability to obtain international travel visas.

Education: Maritime academy and/or bachelor's degree in marine engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Naval Architecture, or related discipline preferred.
Helix Energy Solutions Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer.