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Ship Chief Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

CHIEF ENGINEER

Oakland, CA

$433.44 - $725.64/day

Experience and ability to troubleshoot and make repairs to ships operating systems such as main ... Chief Engineer * Caterpillar and Voith experience Minimum Experience : * Experience as an Engineer ...

The Chief Engineer will supervise, coordinate, advise troubleshooting, and conduct maintenance ... a shipboard environment * Must be able to communicate effectively * Must be a US Citizen * Must ...

The Chief Engineer will supervise, coordinate, advise troubleshooting, and conduct maintenance ... a shipboard environment * Must be able to communicate effectively * Must be a US Citizen * Must ...

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Showing results 1-20

Ship Chief Engineer information

See California salary details

$32.1K

$91.7K

$178.6K

How much do ship chief engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for ship chief engineer in California is $91,728.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $58,200.00 and $118,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a ship chief engineer?

Ship Chief Engineers are the senior-most engineers on a vessel, responsible for overseeing the operation and maintenance of all mechanical and electrical systems on board. They manage the engineering department, ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations, and supervise the engine room crew. Chief Engineers are vital for the safe and efficient running of a ship, often collaborating closely with the Captain and other officers. Their duties include troubleshooting technical issues, maintaining equipment, and ensuring that all machinery runs smoothly during voyages.

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

To thrive as a Ship Chief Engineer, you need a deep understanding of marine engineering, mechanical systems, and regulatory compliance, supported by a degree in marine engineering and a Chief Engineer's license (STCW certification). Proficiency with shipboard machinery, maintenance management systems, and diagnostic tools is essential. Strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are vital soft skills for coordinating engine room teams and responding to emergencies. These skills ensure the safe, efficient operation of the vessel, compliance with maritime regulations, and the wellbeing of crew and cargo.

What are some common challenges faced by a ship chief engineer, and how can they be addressed?

As a Ship Chief Engineer, you'll often encounter challenges such as managing a diverse engineering team, ensuring compliance with international maritime regulations, and maintaining complex machinery under tight schedules. To address these, it's important to foster clear communication within your team, stay updated on regulatory changes, and implement regular preventive maintenance routines. Developing strong problem-solving skills and adaptability also helps in handling unexpected technical issues during voyages.

What is the difference between Ship Chief Engineer vs Marine Engineer?

AspectShip Chief EngineerMarine Engineer
CredentialsSTCW Chief Engineer Certification, Marine Engineering DegreeSTCW Marine Engineer Certification, Marine Engineering Degree
Work EnvironmentEngine room, ship's technical managementEngine room, ship's technical operations
Employer & Industry UsageShipping companies, cruise lines, offshore vesselsShipping companies, offshore industry, naval vessels
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The Ship Chief Engineer is responsible for the overall operation and maintenance of the ship's engine room, overseeing the engineering team. The Marine Engineer typically refers to the same role but may also denote engineers with specialized technical skills or different certification levels. While both roles work in similar environments and require comparable credentials, the Chief Engineer holds a leadership position overseeing the entire engineering department.

What are popular job titles related to Ship Chief Engineer jobs in California?

For Ship Chief Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Ship Chief Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,728 per year, or $44.1 per hour.

$433.44 - $725.64/day

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Overview

As a privately held, U.S.-owned and operated company, Crowley provides services to 36 nations and island territories. Our purpose is to bravely advance what's possible to elevate people and planet, with our core values of Integrity, Sustainability and Drive guiding everything we do.

By expanding and innovating our services, we have expanded our footprint in services within the Logistics, Land Transportation, Shipping, Wind and Fuel industries. Crowley and its affiliated companies have generated more than $3.5 billion in annual revenue through our people's focus on excellence and a culture that values everyone's voices and collaboration. 

To continue laying the groundwork and challenge what's possible for our business, we seek to partner with individuals ready to elevate their careers with us

ABOUT US: A key role with the largest Jones Act employer with a diverse fleet of vessels. Crowley Fuels delivers clean petroleum products across remote Alaska, supplying communities, construction projects, government operations, and the commercial fishing industry. Our specialized tugs and barges, operated by skilled local mariners, allow us to reach challenging, shallow, and otherwise inaccessible areas to keep homes, businesses, and essential services powered across the state.

All employees have the opportunity to join the Mariner Employee Resource Group; which is focused on creating a safe, inclusive, and diverse workforce.


Responsibilities

Watch standing. Making engine room and vessel repairs, conduct preventative maintenance inspections, cleaning and associated paperwork. Maintain engine room inventory (parts, tools, & supplies). Responsible for all filter and strainer changes, fuel and lube loading and transfer. Must take and stow supplies. In addition, general deck duties including line handling and any other duties deemed necessary by the tug master. Must follow all Safety Directives and Vessel Security Procedures as well as Crowley SAE policies, guidelines, and directives. Must follow all applicable regulatory agency rules and regulation


Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

  • DDE 4000 or higher
  • OICEW
  • Valid STCW with all required endorsements (including but not limited to CPR/First Aid, Advanced Firefighting)
  • TWIC
  • Valid passport -must be able to travel internationally with no felonies, DUI or other convictions which would restrict entry into Canada or other nations.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Chief Engineer
  • Caterpillar and Voith experience

Minimum Experience:

  • Experience as an Engineer aboard towing vessel
  • Knowledge of current electronically controlled engines and control system
  • Experience and ability to troubleshoot and make repairs to ships operating systems such as main engine, propulsion, generator, hydraulics, pumps, and electrical.
  • Basic skill level operating a PC Computer

This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement. Compensation, including hourly wages or salary, benefits, and other terms of employment, will be in accordance with the applicable union contract. Specific pay rates and benefits will be provided during the hiring process and are based on the terms of the outlined agreement.

$433.44-725.64/day DOE and Qualifications

Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications:

  • DDE 4000 or higher
  • OICEW
  • Valid STCW with all required endorsements (including but not limited to CPR/First Aid, Advanced Firefighting)
  • TWIC
  • Valid passport -must be able to travel internationally with no felonies, DUI or other convictions which would restrict entry into Canada or other nations.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Chief Engineer
  • Caterpillar and Voith experience

Minimum Experience:

  • Experience as an Engineer aboard towing vessel
  • Knowledge of current electronically controlled engines and control system
  • Experience and ability to troubleshoot and make repairs to ships operating systems such as main engine, propulsion, generator, hydraulics, pumps, and electrical.
  • Basic skill level operating a PC Computer

This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement. Compensation, including hourly wages or salary, benefits, and other terms of employment, will be in accordance with the applicable union contract. Specific pay rates and benefits will be provided during the hiring process and are based on the terms of the outlined agreement.

$433.44-725.64/day DOE and Qualifications

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME