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Steam Chief Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Chief Engineer

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$65/hr

USCG Chief Engineer of Steam / Motor / Gas Turbine, STCW International license and accompanying endorsements. * Ability to pass a federal background check to obtain and hold a DoD Common Access Card ...

Chief Engineer

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$65/hr

USCG Chief Engineer of Steam / Motor / Gas Turbine, STCW International license and accompanying endorsements. * Ability to pass a federal background check to obtain and hold a DoD Common Access Card ...

Chief Engineer

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$65/hr

USCG Chief Engineer of Steam / Motor / Gas Turbine, STCW International license and accompanying endorsements. * Ability to pass a federal background check to obtain and hold a DoD Common Access Card ...

Chief Engineer

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$65/hr

USCG Chief Engineer of Steam / Motor / Gas Turbine, STCW International license and accompanying endorsements. * Ability to pass a federal background check to obtain and hold a DoD Common Access Card ...

Chief Engineer

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$65/hr

USCG Chief Engineer of Steam / Motor / Gas Turbine, STCW International license and accompanying endorsements. * Ability to pass a federal background check to obtain and hold a DoD Common Access Card ...

Chief Engineer

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$65/hr

USCG Chief Engineer of Steam / Motor / Gas Turbine, STCW International license and accompanying endorsements. * Ability to pass a federal background check to obtain and hold a DoD Common Access Card ...

Chief Engineer

Del Mar, CA ยท On-site

$65/hr

USCG Chief Engineer of Steam / Motor / Gas Turbine, STCW International license and accompanying endorsements. * Ability to pass a federal background check to obtain and hold a DoD Common Access Card ...

Chief Engineer

Spring Valley, CA ยท On-site

$65/hr

USCG Chief Engineer of Steam / Motor / Gas Turbine, STCW International license and accompanying endorsements. * Ability to pass a federal background check to obtain and hold a DoD Common Access Card ...

Chief Engineer

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$65/hr

USCG Chief Engineer of Steam / Motor / Gas Turbine, STCW International license and accompanying endorsements. * Ability to pass a federal background check to obtain and hold a DoD Common Access Card ...

Chief Engineer

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$65/hr

USCG Chief Engineer of Steam / Motor / Gas Turbine, STCW International license and accompanying endorsements. * Ability to pass a federal background check to obtain and hold a DoD Common Access Card ...

Chief Engineer

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$65/hr

USCG Chief Engineer of Steam / Motor / Gas Turbine, STCW International license and accompanying endorsements. * Ability to pass a federal background check to obtain and hold a DoD Common Access Card ...

Chief Engineer

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$65/hr

USCG Chief Engineer of Steam / Motor / Gas Turbine, STCW International license and accompanying endorsements. * Ability to pass a federal background check to obtain and hold a DoD Common Access Card ...

Chief Engineer

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$65/hr

USCG Chief Engineer of Steam / Motor / Gas Turbine, STCW International license and accompanying endorsements. * Ability to pass a federal background check to obtain and hold a DoD Common Access Card ...

USCG Chief Engineer of Steam / Motor / Gas Turbine, STCW International license and accompanying endorsements. * Ability to pass a federal background check to obtain and hold a DoD Common Access Card ...

USCG Chief Engineer of Steam / Motor / Gas Turbine, STCW International license and accompanying endorsements. * Ability to pass a federal background check to obtain and hold a DoD Common Access Card ...

Chief Engineer

Seattle, WA ยท On-site

$64 - $65/hr

USCG Chief Engineer of Steam / Motor / Gas Turbine, STCW International license and accompanying endorsements. * Ability to pass a federal background check to obtain and hold a DoD Common Access Card ...

USCG Chief Engineer of Steam / Motor / Gas Turbine, STCW International license and accompanying endorsements. * Ability to pass a federal background check to obtain and hold a DoD Common Access Card ...

Showing results 21-40

Steam Chief information

See salary details

$33K

$124.4K

$200.5K

How much do steam chief jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for steam chief in the United States is $124,409.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,000.00 and $146,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a steam chief?

A Steam Chief, often referred to as a Chief Engineer or Chief Steam Engineer, is responsible for operating, maintaining, and overseeing steam-powered equipment and systems, typically in industrial facilities or on ships. They ensure the safe and efficient functioning of boilers, turbines, and related machinery. Steam Chiefs supervise other engineers and technicians, perform inspections, handle repairs, and ensure compliance with safety regulations. Their expertise is critical for preventing accidents and maintaining optimal performance of steam systems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a steam chief?

To thrive as a Steam Chief, you need a deep understanding of boiler operations, steam plant systems, and safety regulations, typically supported by a high-pressure boiler operator license or relevant engineering certification. Proficiency with computerized control systems, maintenance management software, and diagnostic tools is commonly required. Strong leadership, problem-solving skills, and effective communication help ensure safe operations and efficient team coordination. These skills are vital to maintain plant reliability, comply with safety standards, and lead teams in critical, high-risk environments.

What are some common challenges faced by a steam chief in managing a boiler room team?

A Steam Chief often encounters challenges such as ensuring all equipment operates safely and efficiently, coordinating maintenance schedules to minimize downtime, and keeping up with regulatory compliance for boiler operations. Additionally, managing and training a diverse team of operators can be demanding, especially when integrating new technologies or procedures. Effective communication and strong problem-solving skills are essential for addressing these issues and maintaining a safe, productive environment.

What is the difference between Steam Chief vs Steam Engineer?

AspectSteam ChiefSteam Engineer
CredentialsRelevant certifications, experience in steam systemsSimilar certifications, technical training in steam operations
Work EnvironmentSupervisory role overseeing steam operationsHands-on technical work maintaining and operating steam equipment
Industry UsageUsed in industrial plants, power stations, maritimeCommonly found in power plants, manufacturing, maritime

The Steam Chief typically holds a supervisory role, overseeing steam system operations, while the Steam Engineer focuses on technical maintenance and operation of steam equipment. Both roles require relevant certifications and work in similar industrial environments, but the Steam Chief emphasizes management and oversight, whereas the Steam Engineer is more hands-on with technical tasks.

What are popular job titles related to Steam Chief jobs?

For Steam Chief jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Steam Chief job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $124,409 per year, or $59.8 per hour.

Chief Engineer

San Diego, CA โ€ข On-site

Astrion
5 - 10K employees

$65/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Overview

Chief Engineer (Permanent Party)

LOCATION: San Diego, CA

JOB STATUS: Full Time PCS to Kwajalein (permanent change of station)

CLEARANCE: background check/CAC card

CERTIFICATION: USCG

TRAVEL: 100%

COMPENSATION: Max $65/hr

 

Astrion has an exciting opportunity for a Chief Engineer to work full time aboard USAV Worthy

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS / SKILLS

Education:

  • Must have a High School diploma or equivalent.
  • Graduate of a state or federal Maritime Academy, or U.S. Naval or Coast Guard Academy, as a Marine Engineer, or U.S. Naval schools or equivalent in Propulsion; Machinist Mate; Engineman; Damage Control; Air Conditioning and Refrigeration; etc.
    • A total of five (5) years of experience as a licensed Chief Engineer aboard comparable or larger vessels may be substituted for the formal education requirement.

Experience:

  • A total of five (5) years of experience as a licensed Chief Engineer aboard comparable or larger vessels

Certifications:

  • US Coast Guard license as Chief Engineer of inspected motor vessels operating on oceans, on vessels powered by not less than 2500 HP. USCG Chief Engineer of Steam / Motor / Gas Turbine, STCW International license and accompanying endorsements.
  • Ability to pass a federal background check to obtain and hold a DoD Common Access Card (CAC).  Current U.S. Citizenship Required 
  • Ability to pass a post offer drug screen and physical/medical clearance.
  • Current and Valid U.S. Passport*. 

*(Passport, MMC/MMD, and med cert must have minimum of 6 months of validity prior to placement, or proof of renewal in progress.) 

 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS / SKILLS 

  • Experience or background in government/public vessel operations.
  • Experience with vessels in a reduced operating status (ROS).
  • Background in supporting US Army requirements as it pertains to ocean going vessels.
  • Experience with diesel electric propulsion systems.
  • Knowledge of common safety practices and protective equipment used on an ocean-going vessel. 
  • Self-starter, team player and conscientious worker.

 RESPONSIBILITIES

The Chief Engineer on the vessel and must work closely with the vessel Master, Chief Mate, and other personnel involved with vessel operations including RGNEXT range safety personnel and embarked personnel.  The USAV Worthy is a 200 ft long, 1,483 ton, special purpose vessel with a diesel electric propulsion system and a bow thruster.  She typically carries a crew of 13 and up to 20 embarked mission personnel. Operates and maintains the assigned vessel’s propulsion and auxiliary engineering systems.

  • Work with the vessel Master and the Chief Mate in executing the USAV Worthy maintenance program. Oversee the maintenance and upkeep of the vessel’s systems in accordance with applicable standards and regulations.
  • Determine, source, and order parts, supplies, and material requirements for job accomplishment.
  • Accurately inputs O&M data, as well as projects long range maintenance issues.
  • Ensures the vessel maintains ABS Load‐line and U.S. Army standards.
  • Remains on standby/recall status to the vessel during dockside periods, as needed.
  • Participates in the vessels off site OCCM (On‐Condition Cyclic Maintenance) Dry‐docking on a three-year basis
  • Supervises engineering team including permanent crew and surge crew.  Aids in training and development of crew members.
  • Reports to the Master and the RGNEXT Technical lead for Range and Mission Safety.
  • Coordinates with mission staff (supernumeraries) and other personnel on Kwajalein for logistics, provisioning, re-stocking, and requesting maintenance activities for the vessel.
  • Ensures the vessel maintains ABS Load‐line and U.S. Army standards.
  • Ensure logbooks and records are maintained and accurately completed.
  • Complies with and enforces safety regulations, guidelines, policies and procedures both within the Astrion polices and the relevant and applicable RGNEXT OSHE policies: including but not limited to RGNEXT OSHE hearing conservation and respiratory protection programs. 
  • Ensures the vessel is operated and navigated in accordance with applicable US laws/regulations and host nation laws/regulations.
  • Perform Fire and Emergency duties associated with the Chief Engineer’s billet on Ship’s Station Bill. 

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