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Ship Vetting Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Port Engineer - Tanker

Norfolk, VA

$71K - $94K/yr

At USMMI, you won't just manage ships-you'll help power the backbone of U.S. commerce and national ... Contribute to audits and vetting programs (TMSA, SIRE 2.0, ISM, ISO). * Advance continuous ...

... Ship Interface -Marine Vetting Operations (LNG Carriers nominated, all marine service provider vessels) -Marine maneuvering activities (berthing, un-berthing) -Line handling procedures for berthing ...

Operations Procedure Manual including Shore/Ship Interface * Marine Vetting Operations (LNG Carriers nominated, all marine service provider vessels) * Marine maneuvering activities (berthing, un ...

Joe facilities of Eastern Shipbuilding Group, Inc. This will require a hands-on approach in ... Familiarity with industry best practices, customer vetting requirements, and regulatory compliance ...

On the editor side, you'll bring judgment to what the machine produces; reviewing content for accuracy, brand alignment, and quality before it ships, and vetting topic suggestions for relevance and ...

On the editor side, you'll bring judgment to what the machine produces; reviewing content for accuracy, brand alignment, and quality before it ships, and vetting topic suggestions for relevance and ...

On the editor side, youll bring judgment to what the machine produces; reviewing content for accuracy, brand alignment, and quality before it ships, and vetting topic suggestions for relevance and ...

... over 100,000 ready-to-ship components. At Solve we innovate with ambition, offering custom ... The Recruiter will exercise a high attention to detail, and solid decision-making skills in vetting ...

... over 100,000 ready-to-ship components. At Solve we innovate with ambition, offering custom ... The Recruiter will exercise a high attention to detail, and solid decision-making skills in vetting ...

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Ship Vetting information

See salary details

$15

$26

$47

How much do ship vetting jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for ship vetting in the United States is $26.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $32.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Ship Vetting vs Ship Surveyor?

AspectShip VettingShip Surveyor
CredentialsCertifications in maritime safety, inspection, and vetting proceduresCertifications in marine surveying, classification society standards, and ship construction
Work EnvironmentOffice-based with site visits to ships, ports, and terminalsOnboard ships and at inspection sites, often traveling internationally
Employer & Industry UsageShipping companies, charterers, and brokers for vetting cargo shipsClassification societies, survey companies, and shipowners for vessel condition assessments

Ship Vetting focuses on evaluating ships for safety, compliance, and suitability for cargo operations, primarily through inspections and documentation review. Ship Surveyors conduct detailed assessments of vessel condition, structural integrity, and compliance with standards. While both roles involve ship inspections, vetting emphasizes operational suitability for cargo, whereas surveying centers on technical condition and certification compliance.

What are some common challenges faced in a Ship Vetting role, and how can they be addressed?

Ship Vetting professionals often encounter challenges such as interpreting diverse international regulations, evaluating ships with incomplete documentation, and staying updated on rapidly changing industry standards. To address these, it's important to maintain strong communication with both ship operators and regulatory bodies, regularly attend industry training, and develop a keen eye for detail. Collaborating closely with other departments, such as compliance and operations teams, also helps ensure thorough and effective vetting decisions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Ship Vetting Inspector, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Ship Vetting Inspector, you need deep knowledge of maritime safety regulations, vessel operations, and industry standards, often supported by a maritime engineering degree or seafaring experience. Familiarity with vetting inspection tools, databases like SIRE, and certification in safety management systems such as ISM Code are typically required. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial for accurately assessing compliance and conveying findings. These capabilities ensure that vessels meet stringent safety and environmental requirements, minimizing operational and reputational risks for shipping companies.

What is ship vetting?

Ship vetting is a comprehensive assessment process used by companies, especially in the oil, gas, and chemical industries, to evaluate the safety, quality, and suitability of a vessel before chartering or allowing it to transport cargo. The vetting process involves reviewing a ship’s history, inspection records, crew qualifications, safety management systems, and compliance with international regulations. By conducting ship vetting, companies can minimize operational risks, prevent accidents, and ensure that vessels meet both industry and company-specific standards.

Port Engineer - Tanker

USMMI

Norfolk, VA

$71K - $94K/yr

Other

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Port Engineer - Tanker
Lead Critical Maritime Operations. Drive Performance. Shape the Future of U.S. Shipping.
At USMMI, you won't just manage ships-you'll help power the backbone of U.S. commerce and national security.
As a trusted leader in the maritime industry, USMMI operates a fleet of vessels supporting both commercial trade and vital government programs, including the Military Sealift Command and the Maritime Administration's Tanker Security Program (TSP). Our work sits at the intersection of operational excellence, engineering innovation, and mission-critical logistics.
We are known for doing things the right way - holding ourselves to the highest global standards and continuously advancing best practices aligned with OCIMF. Our team brings deep expertise in ship operations, design, and lifecycle management, enabling us to deliver smart, reliable solutions in a complex and evolving industry.
Why Join USMMI
  • Mission-Driven Work: Support operations that directly impact U.S. economic strength and national security.
  • High-Impact Role: Your decisions directly influence vessel performance, safety, and charter success.
  • Professional Respect: Work alongside experienced mariners and engineers who value expertise and leadership.
  • Growth & Ownership: Take ownership of fleet performance and drive meaningful improvements.
  • Dynamic Environment: Split time between office strategy and hands-on vessel and shipyard operations.

Your Impact
As a Port Engineer, you will take ownership of the technical performance, safety, and compliance of MR tankers operating in the Jones Act trade. You'll serve as a critical link between shipboard teams and shoreside leadership-ensuring vessels operate safely, efficiently, and at peak readiness.
This is a role for a seasoned Chief Engineer ready to transition to the shoreside (or elevate their current port engineering career) and make a measurable impact across a fleet.
What You'll Do
  • Lead the technical management and operational readiness of assigned vessels.
  • Partner with Masters and Chief Engineers to ensure safe, efficient voyages.
  • Plan and execute maintenance strategies, repairs, and drydock periods.
  • Own and manage vessel budgets, balancing cost control with operational excellence.
  • Drive compliance across USCG, ABS, EPA, and international regulatory frameworks.
  • Champion safety culture and proactively address risks across the fleet.
  • Analyze performance data to improve reliability, fuel efficiency, and lifecycle outcomes.
  • Troubleshoot complex engineering issues and support crews with practical solutions.
  • Oversee vendor, shipyard, and class engagements for inspections and certifications.
  • Lead incident investigations and ensure effective corrective actions.
  • Contribute to audits and vetting programs (TMSA, SIRE 2.0, ISM, ISO).
  • Advance continuous improvement initiatives aligned with OCIMF best practices.

What You Bring
Required Experience & Credentials
  • U.S. Coast Guard Chief Engineer License (Unlimited HP) with Tank Vessel endorsement.
  • 10+ years sailing as Chief Engineer on MR tankers (40,000-50,000 DWT preferred).
  • Bachelor's degree in marine engineering or related field.
  • Strong knowledge of U.S. and international maritime regulations (USCG, ABS, SOLAS/MARPOL, TMSA, SIRE 2.0).
  • Expertise in low-speed diesel propulsion, electrical systems, cargo systems, and automation.
  • Proven experience planning and executing drydock projects and managing budgets.

Core Strengths
  • Leadership and decision-making in high-stakes operational environments
  • Strong communication across shipboard and executive stakeholders
  • Analytical mindset with a focus on performance optimization
  • Hands-on problem solving with practical, field-ready solutions

Additional Requirements
  • Valid TWIC and U.S. Passport
  • Ability to travel extensively (domestic and international, often on short notice)
  • U.S. citizenship with eligibility for Secret clearance

Preferred
  • Prior port engineer or fleet management experience
  • Advanced degree in engineering management or related discipline

Work Environment & Travel
This role blends office-based planning with hands-on field execution:
  • Location: Norfolk, Virginia - On-Site
  • Travel: Extensive travel (including foreign travel and travel in cars, boats, ships, and airplanes) will be required to attend to shipyard maintenance, to ride vessels or visit vessels for quality assurance and general management of vessel and crews, and on short notice for casualties, to conduct investigations and to protect the company's reputation, or as directed by management

  • Physical Demands & Work Environment

The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
General office setting, typically the employee may sit comfortably to perform the work, usually at a computer terminal with short breaks or lunch period. However, there may be some bending/stooping, reaching above shoulder level, walking; standing; carrying of light items such as papers, books, or packages of up to 25 pounds. You should be able to hear & speak clearly using phone / headset to communicate with customers; be able to navigate, view & enter information on the computer.
Operations Setting: typically, the employee must be able to be in Confined Spaces, Sit, Stand, Walk, Bend, Push/Pull, Kneel, Squat, Reaching and Twisting. Can not have any Fear of Heights. Also need the ability to consistently be able to lift 10lb - 100lb utilizing Folding Hand Truck & Dolly, Rolling Utility Carts or Single Hand Trucks (70 - 100%) of time.
Our Commitment to You
At USMMI, we are committed to providing a workplace where safety, professionalism, and respect come first. We invest in our people and empower them to take ownership, lead with confidence, and grow their careers in a meaningful way.
Ready to Take the Helm Shoreside
If you're a seasoned Chief Engineer or experienced Port Engineer looking to make a broader impact, this is your opportunity to lead, influence, and help shape the future of maritime operations.