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Port Engineering Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

... engineers, mechanics, and MOW Team Members at Watco's Safe Performance Center • Leadership and ... port and terminal operations, including vessel movements, cargo handling, and import/export ...

Embedded Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$100K - $160K/yr

Write, port, and debug device drivers over UART, I2C, SPI, CAN/DroneCAN, and USB for sensors ... Ability to work independently, take ownership of engineering tasks, and exercise practical ...

Embedded Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$135K - $178K/yr

Write, port, and debug device drivers over UART, I2C, SPI, CAN/DroneCAN, and USB for sensors ... Ability to work independently, take ownership of engineering tasks, and exercise practical ...

Collaborate with the Sales Engineering team to scope and design Foundry services as necessary ... Develop and maintain system configuration plans and port mapping for single systems and small ...

Collaborate with the Sales Engineering team to scope and design Foundry services as necessary ... Develop and maintain system configuration plans and port mapping for single systems and small ...

Collaborate with the Sales Engineering team to scope and design Foundry services as necessary ... Develop and maintain system configuration plans and port mapping for single systems and small ...

Collaborate with the Sales Engineering team to scope and design Foundry services as necessary ... Develop and maintain system configuration plans and port mapping for single systems and small ...

Collaborate with the Sales Engineering team to scope and design Foundry services as necessary ... Develop and maintain system configuration plans and port mapping for single systems and small ...

Collaborate with the Sales Engineering team to scope and design Foundry services as necessary ... Develop and maintain system configuration plans and port mapping for single systems and small ...

Product Engineer 1

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$70 - $90/hr

Collaborate with the Sales Engineering team to scope and design Foundry services as necessary ... Develop and maintain system configuration plans and port mapping for single systems and small ...

Product Engineer 1

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$70 - $90/hr

Collaborate with the Sales Engineering team to scope and design Foundry services as necessary ... Develop and maintain system configuration plans and port mapping for single systems and small ...

Perform systems engineering, design, analysis, and experimentation of wireless networks. * Plan ... Ability to properly identify various device port types (RJ45-Console, DB9, SFP, RJ45 Ethernet)

Product Engineer II

Libertyville, IL · On-site

$100 - $160/hr

Collaborate with the Sales Engineering team toscope anddesignFoundryservicesas necessary ... Develop andmaintainsystem configuration plans and port mapping for single systems and small ...

Railway Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$100K - $145K/yr

Prepare and revise engineering design package documentation including site plans, utilities, plans ... Every airport, road, bridge, port, or transit project is an opportunity to make communities safer ...

Every airport, road, bridge, port, or transit project is an opportunity to make communities safer ... Prepare and revise engineering design package documentation including site plans, utilities, plans ...

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Showing results 1-20

Port Engineering information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$17.5K

$125.5K

$193.2K

How much do port engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for port engineering in Chicago, IL is $125,529.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,300.00 and $192,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is port engineering?

Port engineering is a specialized field of civil engineering focused on the design, construction, maintenance, and operation of ports, harbors, and related infrastructure. Port engineers work on projects such as docks, terminals, breakwaters, and navigation channels, ensuring they are safe, efficient, and environmentally sustainable. Their responsibilities may include managing dredging operations, designing cargo handling systems, and overseeing repairs to marine structures. The role often requires knowledge of coastal processes, environmental regulations, and large-scale project management.

What are the most common challenges faced by port engineers and how can they be addressed?

Port Engineers often encounter challenges such as managing unexpected equipment failures, coordinating repairs with minimal disruption to port operations, and ensuring compliance with environmental and safety regulations. Effective communication with vessel crews, maintenance teams, and port authorities is essential to quickly resolve issues and maintain operational efficiency. Staying updated on the latest maritime technologies and regulatory changes also helps Port Engineers proactively address potential problems and advance in their careers.

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, structural analysis, and project management, usually supported by a degree in engineering and relevant licensure. Familiarity with CAD software, port management systems, and compliance with maritime regulations is essential. Strong problem-solving, communication, and leadership skills help in coordinating multidisciplinary teams and managing complex projects. These abilities are crucial for ensuring efficient, safe, and sustainable port operations.

What is the difference between Port Engineering vs Marine Engineering?

AspectPort EngineeringMarine Engineering
CredentialsBachelor's in Civil or Port Engineering, Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferredBachelor's in Marine Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Naval Architecture, Professional Engineer (PE) license optional
Work EnvironmentDesigning and managing port infrastructure, working on land-based projectsDesign, maintain, and repair ship systems, working on ships or in shipyards
Industry UsageUsed by port authorities, civil engineering firms, infrastructure developersUsed by shipping companies, naval architects, shipbuilders

Port Engineering focuses on designing and maintaining port facilities and infrastructure, primarily land-based projects. Marine Engineering involves the design and maintenance of ship systems and propulsion, working in maritime environments. While both roles require engineering credentials and are industry-related, they serve different aspects of maritime infrastructure and operations.

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 project complexity. Senior or specialized port engineers can earn higher salaries, especially with certifications and advanced skills in project management and engineering design.

What do port engineers do?

Port engineers are responsible for designing, maintaining, and overseeing the construction and operation of port facilities, including docks, terminals, and cargo handling systems. They ensure infrastructure safety, efficiency, and compliance with regulations, often using engineering tools and project management skills. Their work supports the smooth movement of goods and ships through port environments.
Infographic showing various Port Engineering job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $125,529 per year, or $60.4 per hour.

Port Supervisor - Chicago, IL

Chicago, IL • On-site


Watco

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

306th of 366 rated logistics

People enjoy working here

Paid breaks

Good training


Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Port Supervisor - Chicago, IL
Job Location: Chicago Ferro
Office Location: Onsite
Employment Type: Salary
Job Type: Full Time
Start a Watco Career and Discover the Difference
Keep the world's supply chain moving. That's what the Watco team does every day at our short line railroads, switching sites, terminals, ports, and logistics hubs. Whether you're at one of these locations or in a support-services role, there's one thread that ties everyone together. We're all on the same team. One Watco.
Here's what you can expect from Watco:
• Outstanding culture recognized by Forbes and Newsweek
• Competitive compensation and benefits
• Paid on-the-job training with peer trainers
• Training for conductors, engineers, mechanics, and MOW Team Members at Watco's Safe Performance Center
• Leadership and development programs offered through Watco University
• Career advancement opportunities
Job Summary
The Port Supervisor leads and supports teams to ensure safe, efficient, and compliant port and terminal operations, including vessel movements, cargo handling, and import/export activities. They act as a liaison between internal teams and external customers while maintaining operational documentation and supporting scheduling, resource allocation, and reporting.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
• Lead, schedule, and support their teams to ensure safe, efficient, and accurate port and terminal operations
• Support the coordination of vessel and barge movements, cargo handling, and terminal activities, including import/export operations and special customer requests
• Act as a liaison between internal teams, customers, and regulatory agencies to maintain clear communication and operational flow
• Support and ensure compliance with company policies, safety protocols, FTZ regulations, and customs requirements
• Support operational documentation not limited to vessel schedules, cargo records, and correspondence, and track all relevant communications
• Engage in operations calls that support the daily vessel schedule
• Assist with operational needs, not limited to planning, labor allocation, and resource coordination to optimize vessel and terminal performance
• Support reporting and additional operational tasks, including environmental, financial, or procedural documentation as needed
• Performs other duties assigned by leadership
Qualifications
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily and be able to pass and/or obtain all reporting, testing, and certifications as required for this position and location. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.
• Minimum of 3 years of supervisory experience in port, terminal, or related operations
• Knowledgeable in port and terminal operations
• Strong ability to serve as a liaison between internal teams and external customers
• Valid Driver's License
• Valid TWIC card or the ability to obtain and maintain one, required
Education
High School or GED equivalent
Associate's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain, or related field preferred

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