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Port Engineer Jobs in Charleston, SC (NOW HIRING)

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Port Engineer information

See Charleston, SC salary details

$15.9K

$114K

$175.5K

How much do port engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for port engineer in Charleston, SC is $114,035.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,600.00 and $175,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a port engineer?

Port Engineers are professionals responsible for overseeing the maintenance, repair, and operation of ships and marine equipment while they are docked at a port. They manage technical aspects, coordinate with ship crews and contractors, and ensure vessels comply with all safety and environmental regulations. Port Engineers play a crucial role in ensuring that ships are seaworthy and ready for their next voyage, often managing budgets and timelines for repair projects. Their work is vital to minimize downtime and maintain the efficiency of shipping operations.

What does a port engineer do?

A port engineer works on the technical aspects of operations and infrastructure at a port. You oversee ship maintenance and repair, and your duties include ensuring that engineering work meets safety standards and marine regulations. During projects, you remain present on the dock to offer guidance to technical personnel. The responsibilities of many port engineers include managing a maintenance budget and finding ways to lower costs and increase the efficiency of port operations. You may communicate with ships on the ocean to coordinate maintenance. You may also work on harbor improvements, dredging, and other infrastructure projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a port engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Port Engineer, you need a solid background in marine engineering, vessel maintenance, and regulatory compliance, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree and maritime certifications. Familiarity with ship management software, maintenance planning systems, and industry standards such as SOLAS and MARPOL is crucial. Strong problem-solving, organizational skills, and effective communication are essential for coordinating repairs and collaborating with ship crews and vendors. These skills ensure the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of vessels, minimizing downtime and maintaining port and fleet reliability.

What are some common challenges a port engineer faces when managing vessel maintenance schedules?

Port Engineers often encounter challenges in balancing routine maintenance with unexpected repairs, especially when vessels have tight operational schedules. Coordinating with ship crews, contractors, and suppliers to ensure timely completion of work while minimizing downtime is crucial. Additionally, managing budget constraints and adhering to regulatory compliance can add complexity to the role. Effective communication and strong organizational skills are key to overcoming these obstacles and ensuring vessels remain seaworthy and operational.

What is the difference between Port Engineer vs Marine Engineer?

AspectPort EngineerMarine Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, certifications in port operationsMarine engineering degree, maritime certifications
Work EnvironmentPort facilities, shipyards, maritime terminalsShips, engine rooms, maritime vessels
Industry UsagePort authorities, shipping companies, logisticsShipping lines, vessel operators, shipbuilding
Primary FocusPort infrastructure, vessel maintenance coordinationShip engine systems, propulsion, machinery

While both roles involve maritime environments, a Port Engineer primarily manages port facilities and vessel maintenance at port sites, whereas a Marine Engineer focuses on the technical operation and repair of ship engines and machinery onboard vessels.

How much do port engineers make in the US?

Port engineers in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $80,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Senior or specialized port engineers can earn higher salaries, especially in major port cities or with advanced skills in project management and maritime systems.

What are popular job titles related to Port Engineer jobs in Charleston, SC?

For Port Engineer jobs in Charleston, SC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Port Engineer jobs in Charleston, SC look for?

The top searched job categories for Port Engineer jobs in Charleston, SC are:

Infographic showing various Port Engineer job openings in Charleston, SC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 87% In-person, and 13% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $114,035 per year, or $54.8 per hour.

Senior Port/Rail Engineer - Project Manager

AECOM

Charleston, SC • On-site

$92K - $120K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


AECOM rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 70 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

21st of 80 rated construction


Job description

Company Description
Work with Us. Change the World.
At AECOM, we're delivering a better world. Whether improving your commute, keeping the lights on, providing access to clean water, or transforming skylines, our work helps people and communities thrive. We are the world's trusted infrastructure consulting firm, partnering with clients to solve the world's most complex challenges and build legacies for future generations.
There has never been a better time to be at AECOM. With accelerating infrastructure investment worldwide, our services are in great demand. We invite you to bring your bold ideas and big dreams and become part of a global team of over 50,000 planners, designers, engineers, scientists, digital innovators, program and construction managers and other professionals delivering projects that create a positive and tangible impact around the world.
We're one global team driven by our common purpose to deliver a better world. Join us.
Job Description
AECOM is seeking a Senior Port/Rail Engineer - Project Manager to be based in Raleigh, NC, Wilmington, NC or North Charleston, SC.
JOB SUMMARY:
The Senior Port/Rail Engineer - Project Manager is a senior-level position responsible for supporting the Goods Movement and engineering team in the Tennessee, Alabama, North Carolina, and South Carolina Region. This individual will oversee the delivery of multi-disciplinary Port, Rail, Goods Movement and Freight engineering projects, serve as a technical lead and project manager, and drive business development efforts across the region. This role offers the opportunity to shape the future of Port, Marine, and Freight Rail infrastructure in the region while working on high-profile projects including Port and Marine terminals, Intermodal terminals, freight rail, and multimodal corridors throughout the region and country. The successful candidate will bring strong leadership, technical expertise, and a collaborative spirit to support the growth of AECOM's Goods Movement / Port and Marine practice.
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Serve as Project Manager and Technical Lead on complex, multi-disciplinary Port and Rail projects.
  • Oversee the planning, design, and delivery of Port and Rail infrastructure including port cargo terminals, intermodal terminals, marine structures, freight rail, and related facilities.
  • Coordinate and collaborate with internal teams and external stakeholders to ensure successful project execution.
  • Provide quality assurance and ensure compliance with applicable standards, codes, and client requirements.
  • Support the development of project scopes and estimates, engineering budgets, schedules, and resource plans.
  • Foster a collaborative and inclusive team culture that promotes innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement.
  • Mentor and support the professional development of engineering staff across disciplines.
  • Represent AECOM at industry events, client meetings, and public forums as a subject matter expert in Port and Goods Movement engineering.
  • Supporting business development efforts for all engineering disciplines in the region, including client engagement, proposal development, and pursuit strategy.
  • Participate in client pre-positioning efforts, including attending industry events, supporting capture planning, and contributing to client engagement strategies.
  • Assist in identifying new opportunities and supporting go/no-go decisions through market research and client intelligence.

Qualifications
Qualifications
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
  • BA/BS in Engineering discipline and 8 years of relevant experience or demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or education.
  • Professional Engineer (PE or P.Eng.) license required.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Experience with Port and Marine infrastructure design, including cargo terminals, freight rail, and inland ports.
  • 10 years of relevant experience in Ports/Marine and/or Freight Rail and 2 years of leadership experience.
  • Familiarity with Port Authorities, Terminal Operators, and Goods Movement and freight rail clients within the region and in the southeast.
  • Experience in engineering project delivery, including design and construction phases.
  • Strong understanding of engineering standards, permitting, and regulatory processes.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Proven experience supporting multi-disciplinary engineering teams and delivering complex infrastructure projects.
  • Strong leadership, communication, and client relationship skills.

Additional Information
Additional Information
  • Sponsorship is not available for this role at this time.
  • May have to travel depending on project needs
  • Relocation assistance may be available for this position.

At AECOM, we are committed to maintaining a secure and trustworthy recruitment process and take any fraudulent hiring activity seriously. To support this commitment, all newly hired employees are required to attend an in-person Day 1 onboarding at an AECOM office location as a condition of employment.
About AECOM
AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan.
AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients' complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle - from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2025. Learn more at aecom.com.
What makes AECOM a great place to work
You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you'll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you've always envisioned. Here, you'll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community-where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity.
As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

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