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Ship Chief Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

OSG Ship Management, Inc.

Tanker Chief Mate

Tampa, FL · On-site

... the Chief Engineer, as applicable; • The keeping of the Bridge Watch at Sea and arranging for Deck Crew watches when required. • The planning and execution of all cargo operations, including ...

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Ship Chief Engineer information

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$32.5K

$92.9K

$181K

How much do ship chief engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for ship 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 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 Ship Chief Engineers?

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.
More about Ship Chief Engineer jobs
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Ship Chief Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ship Chief Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,945 per year, or $44.7 per hour.
Chief Engineer- Shore Based

Chief Engineer- Shore Based

Ingram Barge Company

Reserve, LA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Company Description

Ingram Marine Group encompasses our operating units involved in transporting bulk commodities on America's inland waterways, delivering fuel and supplies to the towing industry, and providing a ship anchorage in Louisiana. As the leading carrier, we operate a fleet that transport aggregates, grain, fertilizer, coal, ores, alloys, steel products, chemicals, and other products.

We're committed to being the best at whatever we do. We're continuously growing, adapting, and responding, and we're successful because of the outstanding hard work and creative energy of our associates.

Job Description

Ingram Marine Group is seeking a Chief Engineer - Shore Based in Reserve, LA. This engineer is responsible for safely assisting and completing job tasks on overhaul, dock and/or engineering projects in a timely manner including critical system installs, repairs, maintenance, and other operations including fueling, cleaning, and painting.

What you will be doing:

  • Able to fulfill vessel Chief Engineer job duties along with additional responsibilities 
  • Responsible for preventive and routine maintenance of vessels, equipment and dock
  • Conduct repairs to engines, pumps, motors, etc.
  • Maintain necessary paperwork
  • Perform special technical assignments as directed
  • Assist Chief Engineers and vendors with accomplishing repairs and maintenance underway and or dock side
  • Assist with communications to vessel engineers, troubleshooting problems, training of junior engineers, gathering new ideas for all job task improvements
  • Communicate Ingram Barge Company standards and policies to all vendors
Qualifications

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Able to safely operate aboard a vessel and perform necessary tasks within the safety guidelines
  • Able to perform in a fast paced environment and quickly respond to unexpected circumstances and safety concerns
  • Able to apply mechanical and electrical skills while repairing and maintaining a vessel during assigned projects
  • Working knowledge of welding, plumping, electrical, carpentry other associated concepts
  • Able to identify and employ appropriate safety practices in order to manage risks
  • Able to effectively communicate and cooperate with a team
  • Must have creative problem solving skills
  • Must have the ability to trouble shoot and resolve problems
  • Must have current and valid driver's license
  • Proven leadership skills and strong interpersonal skills
  • Basic skills with MS Outlook and Internet Explorer preferred
Additional Information

Working Environment / Conditions:

  • High school diploma or equivalent required
  • 2 - 3 years of engine room experience required
  • Must have the physical ability to transit all work environments for vessel and facility docks (i.e. lifting, climbing, confined spaces, maneuver hazardous areas)
  • Able to bend, stoop and stand for long periods of time
  • Able to frequently lift, hold and carry equipment weighing up to 70 pounds
  • Able to safely enter and exit confined spaces, ascend and descend an 8-foot ladder, and negotiate uneven and moving surfaces
  • Able to wear and use full or half face respirator
  • Able to meet weight and size limits outlined in safety standard guidelines
  • Able to hear, understand and communicate instructions in English, particularly in emergency situations
  • Able to work in extreme weather (i.e. heat, cold, snow)
  • Able to work in a fast-paced environment
  • Able to live and work for a minimum 14 days aboard a towboat or at a dock facility
  • Able to secure reliable travel to and from other facilities and/or vessels

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

  • A competitive compensation package
  • Comprehensive benefits including Medical/Prescription Drug plans, HSA, Vision, Dental and Health Care FSA.
  • Generous paid time off benefits
  • 401K match upon first day of hire
  • Life and AD&D, Employee Assistant programs, Group Legal, & more
  • Associate growth and development encouraged through internal training and tuition reimbursement program 

If you are requesting reasonable accommodation or disability assistance in submitting your application, you may email us at [email protected]

Ingram Marine Group and its affiliates ("Company") is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, work related mental or physical disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or genetic information. 

EEO/AA Employer/Vet/Disabled

We participate in EVerify

http://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/pdf/eeopost.pdf

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