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Relief Chief Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Under the supervision of Chief Engineer, directs the activities of engineering staff and associated ... Schedule engineers for regular workdays, holidays, and vacation relief. * Prepares labor and ...

Under the supervision of Chief Engineer, directs the activities of engineering staff and associated ... Schedule engineers for regular workdays, holidays, and vacation relief. * Prepares labor and ...

Under the supervision of Chief Engineer, directs the activities of engineering staff and associated ... Schedule engineers for regular workdays, holidays, and vacation relief. * Prepares labor and ...

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Relief Chief Engineer information

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$32.5K

$92.9K

$181K

How much do relief chief engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for relief 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 is a Relief Chief Engineer?

A Relief Chief Engineer is a senior engineering professional who temporarily assumes the responsibilities of the Chief Engineer on a vessel or facility, usually when the regular Chief Engineer is unavailable due to leave, illness, or rotation. They oversee the operation, maintenance, and repair of all mechanical and electrical equipment. Their duties also include ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations, managing engineering staff, and maintaining detailed records. Relief Chief Engineers must possess extensive technical knowledge and leadership skills to ensure smooth operations during their tenure.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Relief Chief Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Relief Chief Engineer, you need advanced knowledge of marine engineering systems, experience in vessel operations, and appropriate maritime certifications such as a Chief Engineer license (STCW). Familiarity with shipboard management software, maintenance planning tools, and regulatory compliance systems is typically required. Strong leadership, decision-making, and crisis management skills help ensure smooth operations and effective crew supervision. These skills and qualifications are crucial for maintaining vessel safety, operational efficiency, and compliance during the chief engineer's absence.

What are some common challenges faced by a Relief Chief Engineer when transitioning between vessels or assignments?

A Relief Chief Engineer often steps into new environments with varying equipment, crew dynamics, and operational procedures. One common challenge is quickly familiarizing oneself with the specific systems and maintenance history of each vessel, which requires strong adaptability and attention to detail. Additionally, building rapport with the existing engineering team and effectively communicating expectations is crucial to ensure smooth operations. Flexibility and the ability to troubleshoot unfamiliar problems are key traits that help Relief Chief Engineers succeed in these transitions.

What is the difference between Relief Chief Engineer vs Chief Engineer?

AspectRelief Chief EngineerChief Engineer
CertificationsTypically requires engineering licenses and certifications similar to Chief EngineerSame certifications as Relief Chief Engineer
Work EnvironmentProvides temporary coverage, often on ships, industrial plants, or large facilitiesOversees daily operations and maintenance of engineering systems
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly used in maritime, shipping, and industrial sectorsUsed across maritime, power plants, and large industrial facilities

The Relief Chief Engineer acts as a temporary substitute for the Chief Engineer, ensuring continuous engineering operations. While both roles require similar certifications and work in comparable environments, the Relief Chief Engineer primarily provides coverage during absences or rotations, whereas the Chief Engineer holds the permanent leadership position.

More about Relief Chief Engineer jobs
Infographic showing various Relief Chief Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,945 per year, or $44.7 per hour.

Relief Chief Engineer/ Diesel Mechanic

Magnolia Marine Transport

Vicksburg, MS โ€ข On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Relief Chief Engineer / Diesel Mechanic

Location: Vicksburg, MS, USA

Description

Magnolia Marine Transport is seeking a qualified Relief Chief Engineer / Diesel Mechanic to safely and efficiently maintain all mechanical equipment aboard company vessels and tows. This position ensures reliable vessel operation while maintaining compliance with all applicable U.S. Coast Guard regulations, Safety Management System requirements, and company policies.

Magnolia Marine Transport is a family-owned, relationship-driven company that values professionalism, mechanical expertise, and teamwork. We offer competitive pay, strong benefits, and a supportive work environment with a small-company feel.

Relief Chief Engineer / Diesel Mechanic Qualifications
  • Sufficient engineering and mechanical experience gained through on-the-job training, supported by verified professional references

  • Demonstrated knowledge of vessel machinery, barge equipment, and diesel mechanical systems

  • Ability to comply with all USCG regulations, company policies, and safety procedures

  • Must maintain a valid U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential with a Tankerman PIC - Dangerous Liquids endorsement throughout employment

  • Ability to work independently, exercise sound judgment, and communicate effectively with the Captain, Pilot, and crew

Relief Chief Engineer / Diesel Mechanic Responsibilities Include the FollowingSafety & Compliance
  • Shares responsibility with all crew members for the safety of the vessel, tow, and crew, and compliance with the Safety Management System

  • Ensures compliance with all applicable USCG regulations and the vessel's Certificate of Inspection (COI), when issued

  • Reports unsafe conditions and nonconformities to the Captain or Pilot on watch and takes appropriate action to prevent accidents

  • Remains knowledgeable in the operation and maintenance of all firefighting equipment, ensuring the fire pump is always ready for use

  • Takes immediate charge in the event of a fire aboard the vessel or tow until properly relieved

Engineering & Mechanical Operations
  • Safely and efficiently maintains vessel machinery, including main engines, auxiliary equipment, hot oil heaters, barge engines, and pump gear

  • Conducts hourly rounds of the engine room, adjacent spaces, and barges while on watch

  • Tests and maintains mechanical equipment aboard barges being loaded, unloaded, or towed, including pumps and associated engines

  • Repairs machinery and equipment within personal capability; coordinates shore assistance through the Captain or Pilot when required

  • Completes the BoatSys log daily

Fuel, Transfers & Inventory
  • Oversees the transfer of fuel, water, lube oil, and bilge, ensuring all transfers comply with Magnolia Marine oil transfer procedures

  • Shuts down pumps if required to leave the pumping station during fuel or oil transfers

  • Ensures a PIC Designation Letter is completed and available for review for both Chief and Relief Engineers

  • Orders machinery parts and engine room supplies in a timely manner, keeping the Captain informed and obtaining approval prior to submission

  • Maintains parts and inventory in an orderly and accessible condition familiar to relief personnel

Leadership, Training & Coordination
  • Serves as the direct supervisor of engine room personnel, if assigned

  • Maintains the engine room in a clean, neat, and orderly condition in compliance with safety and environmental regulations

  • Assists the Captain in preparing and posting station bills and emergency procedures

  • Participates in and assists with fire drills and emergency training for vessel crew

  • Trains approved candidates as engineering trainees and attends required training classes

  • Assists with additional duties as assigned by the Captain or Pilot on watch

Operational Coordination
  • Coordinates with the Captain or Pilot regarding engine shutdowns during delays such as lock or channel delays

  • Ensures any vessel or tow modifications are authorized by the Captain and office personnel prior to execution

Benefits

Magnolia Marine Transport offers a competitive benefits package, including:

  • 401(k)

  • Health, Dental, and Life Insurance

  • Holiday Pay

  • Vacation and Sick Leave

  • Tuition Assistance

  • Profit Sharing

Equal Employment Opportunity

Magnolia Marine Transport is an EEO/AAP Employer. Employment offers are contingent upon successful completion of a pre-employment drug test and background check.