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Offshore Vessel Chief Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Astrion

Chief Engineer

El Cajon, CA · On-site

$65/hr

Overview Chief Engineer (Permanent Party) LOCATION: San Diego, CA JOB STATUS: Full Time PCS to ... Experience or background in government/public vessel operations. * Experience with vessels in a ...

Astrion

Chief Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$65/hr

Overview Chief Engineer (Permanent Party) LOCATION: San Diego, CA JOB STATUS: Full Time PCS to ... Experience or background in government/public vessel operations. * Experience with vessels in a ...

Astrion

Chief Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$65/hr

Overview Chief Engineer (Permanent Party) LOCATION: San Diego, CA JOB STATUS: Full Time PCS to ... Experience or background in government/public vessel operations. * Experience with vessels in a ...

Astrion

Chief Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$65/hr

Overview Chief Engineer (Permanent Party) LOCATION: San Diego, CA JOB STATUS: Full Time PCS to ... Experience or background in government/public vessel operations. * Experience with vessels in a ...

Astrion

Chief Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

Overview Chief Engineer (Permanent Party) LOCATION: Kwajalein Army Garrison (Marshall Islands) JOB ... Experience or background in government/public vessel operations. * Experience with vessels in a ...

Astrion

Chief Engineer

Seattle, WA

$64 - $65/hr

Overview Chief Engineer (Permanent Party) LOCATION: Kwajalein Army Garrison (Marshall Islands) JOB ... Experience or background in government/public vessel operations. * Experience with vessels in a ...

Astrion

Chief Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

Overview Chief Engineer (Permanent Party) LOCATION: Kwajalein Army Garrison (Marshall Islands) JOB ... Experience or background in government/public vessel operations. * Experience with vessels in a ...

Astrion

Chief Engineer

Del Mar, CA · On-site

$65/hr

Overview Chief Engineer (Permanent Party) LOCATION: San Diego, CA JOB STATUS: Full Time PCS to ... Experience or background in government/public vessel operations. * Experience with vessels in a ...

Astrion

Chief Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$65/hr

Overview Chief Engineer (Permanent Party) LOCATION: San Diego, CA JOB STATUS: Full Time PCS to ... Experience or background in government/public vessel operations. * Experience with vessels in a ...

Astrion

Chief Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$65/hr

Overview Chief Engineer (Permanent Party) LOCATION: San Diego, CA JOB STATUS: Full Time PCS to ... Experience or background in government/public vessel operations. * Experience with vessels in a ...

Astrion

Chief Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$65/hr

Overview Chief Engineer (Permanent Party) LOCATION: San Diego, CA JOB STATUS: Full Time PCS to ... Experience or background in government/public vessel operations. * Experience with vessels in a ...

Astrion

Chief Engineer

Spring Valley, CA · On-site

$65/hr

Overview Chief Engineer (Permanent Party) LOCATION: San Diego, CA JOB STATUS: Full Time PCS to ... Experience or background in government/public vessel operations. * Experience with vessels in a ...

Stabbert Maritime

Assistant Port Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

Our diverse operational fleet serves the science, research, offshore energy, defense, and renewable ... Communicate with vessel Chief Engineers to gather updates, identify technical needs, and support ...

Stabbert Maritime

Assistant Port Engineer

Seattle, WA · On-site

$110K - $135K/yr

Our diverse operational fleet serves the science, research, offshore energy, defense, and renewable ... Communicate with vessel Chief Engineers to gather updates, identify technical needs, and support ...

William & Mary

Chief Engineer

Virginia, MN · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

The Research Vessel (R/V) Chief Engineer serves as Chief Engineer on the R/V Virginia. This position may provide shoreside or seagoing support for other vessels in the VIMS fleet if needed. The Chief ...

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Offshore Vessel Chief Engineer information

See salary details

$32.5K

$92.9K

$181K

How much do offshore vessel chief engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for offshore vessel 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 does an offshore vessel chief engineer do?

An Offshore Vessel Chief Engineer is responsible for overseeing the operation and maintenance of all engineering equipment and systems on board an offshore vessel, such as engines, generators, and auxiliary machinery. They manage the engineering crew, ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations, and coordinate repairs and maintenance schedules. The Chief Engineer also monitors fuel consumption, maintains engineering records, and ensures the vessel’s machinery operates efficiently and safely during offshore operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an offshore vessel chief engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Offshore Vessel Chief Engineer, you need in-depth knowledge of marine engineering, propulsion systems, and regulatory compliance, usually backed by a relevant engineering degree and a Chief Engineer’s license (STCW III/2). Proficiency with engine room management systems, planned maintenance systems (PMS), and diagnostics tools is essential. Strong leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills help ensure smooth operations and effective team management under challenging offshore conditions. These competencies are vital for maintaining vessel safety, operational efficiency, and environmental compliance in demanding maritime environments.

What are some common challenges faced by offshore vessel chief engineers and how can they be managed?

Offshore Vessel Chief Engineers often deal with maintaining complex machinery in harsh marine environments, where equipment failures can have significant operational impacts. Common challenges include troubleshooting mechanical and electrical issues with limited resources, ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations, and coordinating with multinational crews. Effective communication, proactive maintenance planning, and strong problem-solving skills are essential to manage these challenges and keep the vessel running smoothly.

What is the difference between Offshore Vessel Chief Engineer vs Offshore Vessel Second Engineer?

AspectOffshore Vessel Chief EngineerOffshore Vessel Second Engineer
CredentialsMarine Engineering Certification, STCW certifications, relevant experienceSimilar certifications, often with less seniority
Work EnvironmentEngine room, overseeing all engineering operationsAssists Chief Engineer, handles specific engineering tasks
ResponsibilitiesOverall engine maintenance, management of engineering crew, safety complianceSupports Chief Engineer, manages daily engine room activities

The Offshore Vessel Chief Engineer holds a senior engineering leadership role, responsible for the entire engine department, while the Offshore Vessel Second Engineer assists and manages specific tasks under the Chief Engineer's supervision. Both roles require similar certifications and work in the engine room, but the Chief Engineer has broader responsibilities and authority.

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Cities with the most Offshore Vessel Chief Engineer job openings:

What states have the most Offshore Vessel Chief Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Offshore Vessel Chief Engineer jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Offshore Vessel Chief Engineer jobs?

For Offshore Vessel Chief Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Offshore Vessel Chief Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Offshore Vessel Chief Engineer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 92% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote 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

Re-posted 25 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Operate and maintain the vessel's propulsion and auxiliary engineering systems.

  • Work with the vessel Master and Chief Mate to execute maintenance programs and oversee the upkeep of vessel systems.

  • Supervise engineering team, including training and development of crew members.

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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