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Ship Chief Engineer Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Ally Logistics

Senior Engineer

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$100K - $137K/yr

You will leverage tools such as Replit, Cursor, and Claude to ship new functions and features. Our ... You will get to define what the new age of software development looks like alongside Ally's CEO. ...

Ally Logistics

Senior Engineer

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$100K - $137K/yr

You will leverage tools such as Replit, Cursor, and Claude to ship new functions and features. Our ... You will get to define what the new age of software development looks like alongside Ally's CEO. ...

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All JobsShip Chief Engineer JobsShip Chief Engineer Jobs in Michigan

Ship Chief Engineer information

See Michigan salary details

$28.3K

$81K

$157.8K

How much do ship chief engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for ship chief engineer in Michigan is $81,010.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,400.00 and $104,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 popular job titles related to Ship Chief Engineer jobs in Michigan? For Ship Chief Engineer jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Ship Chief Engineer jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Ship Chief Engineer jobs in Michigan are:
Ship Chief Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ship Chief Engineer job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,010 per year, or $38.9 per hour.

2nd Assistant Engineer

Grand River Navigation Company

Traverse City, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Come Sail with us on the Great Lakes!
If you are looking to become part of our team that strongly values safety, efficient operations, a family-oriented environment, come sail with us! Grand River Navigation has one of the best leave and rotation systems on the Great Lakes. With unprecedented teamwork and some of the most talented colleagues in the industry we can guarantee you will enjoy a career with us!
Grand River Navigation Company is the U.S. operating subsidiary of Mainstay Maritime. We are one of the largest marine transportation service providers operating on the Great Lakes today with a combined fleet of 15 bulk freight vessels that provide service to over 50 customers across the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Seaway.
Competitive total rewards package including income, paid travel to/from the vessel, healthcare benefits, retirement savings plans and work/life balance with best-in-class rotation. We have many education opportunities and upgrade bonuses to support career growth at a pace that is right for each individual.
"We can go where the big ships go and also where they can't!"
Our Company is searching for qualified candidates for the position of 2nd Assistant Engineer aboard our US flagged self-unloading vessels.
Responsibilities
  • Stand engineering watches and assist with the safe operation of vessel machinery and equipment.
  • Perform routine maintenance, repairs, and troubleshooting of propulsion and auxiliary systems.
  • Monitor engine room operations and report equipment issues to senior engineering officers.
  • Maintain engineering logs, maintenance records, and regulatory documentation.
  • Assist with fuel transfers, bunkering operations, and inventory of engineering supplies.
  • Support compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements.
  • Participate in emergency response drills and vessel emergency operations.
  • Maintain clean, safe, and organized engine room and machinery spaces.
  • Assist with drydock projects, inspections, and major equipment overhauls as needed.
  • Perform other duties assigned by the Chief Engineer in support of vessel operations.

Benefits
  • As an employee, you are part of the Mainstay Maritime family where teamwork and safety are core values
  • Highly competitive wages and benefits including medical, dental, vision, company paid long-term and short-term disability and life insurance, 401K with company match
  • Excellent companywide safety record
  • Company paid training and education opportunities

Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Requirements
  • TWIC Card - Transportation Worker Identification Credential
  • United States Merchant Mariners Credential (MMC) issued by the United States Coast Guard (USCG)
  • MMC Endorsement as 2nd Assistant Engineer of Motor Propelled Vessels Unlimited Horsepower
  • Unexpired US Passport or Enhanced Driver's License and allowed entry into Canada
  • Legally authorized to work in the US, without restriction
  • Excellent communication and ability to multi-task
  • Experience working as a team and desire to working together as a team player
  • Experience and desires to align to our Values: Creating a Positive Customer Experience, Health/Safety/Environment focused, High Integrity and Teamwork

Grand River Navigation is an Equal Opportunity Employer - All qualified applications will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, marital status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, nationality or sex, marital status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by law. We also comply with Family Medical Leave Act and Employee Rights Employee Polygraph Protection Act.

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