Tug Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Position Overview

The Cement Barge Engineer is responsible for the safe, reliable, and compliant operation of all mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems aboard an ocean going self unloading cement barge. This role supports continuous cargo operations, ballast management, and vessel readiness while working in coordination with the tugboat crew, shoreside engineering, and unloading personnel. The engineer sails with the tug on a rotational schedule and ensures the barge’s machinery is maintained to company and regulatory standards.

Primary Responsibilities

Machinery Operation & Maintenance

• Operate, monitor, and maintain:

o Two 12 cylinder turbocharged EMD main generators operating in parallel to power unloading systems

o Two Detroit Diesel 8V71 ship service generators, including parallel operation for the ballast water treatment system

o Eight Fuller Kinyon cement compressors

o Four Fuller Kinyon cement pumps

o Dust collection system

o Optimarin ballast water treatment system

o Quincy reciprocating and rotary screw compressors

o Airslides and airslide blowers

o Raw water cooling pumps

o Fuel transfer systems, cranes, mooring winches, capstans, and anchor machinery

• Operate the ballast water treatment system and ensure all logs are completed within compliance with regulatory standards.

• Conduct routine inspections, preventative maintenance, and repairs within skill level on all auxiliary equipment.

• Perform oil changes, filter changes, routine maintenance and inspections on EMD and Detroit Diesel generators.

• Conduct engineering rounds on the unloading equipment while discharge operations are occurring.

• Identify, troubleshoot, and report mechanical or electrical issues promptly to shoreside management.

Cargo Operations

• Load/Discharge the barge in accordance with company procedures and stability requirements.

• Monitor EMD generators, compressors, pumps, and auxiliary systems throughout discharges.

• Maintain accurate loading and discharge logs, which are viewed live by the customer.

Ballast Water Management

• Operate and monitor the Optimarin ballast water treatment system.

• Perform all ballasting operations in full compliance with USCG and environmental regulations.

• Coordinate with the tug crew to maintain proper trim, stability, and draft during loading, transit, and discharge.

Towing & Marine Operations

• Sail aboard the tugboat and operate barge machinery during:

o Anchoring

o Docking

o Mooring operations

o Pre arrival and departure preparations

• Maintain readiness of all maritime systems required for safe towing operations.

Shipyard & Repair Support

• Conduct onboard repairs within skill level.

• Assist outside vendors and port engineers during major repairs, overhauls, and shipyard periods.

• Provide technical input and support for planned maintenance and corrective actions.

Documentation & Reporting

• Complete:

o Discrepancy reports for all required repairs

o Monthly fuel reports

o Loading and discharge logs

o Maintenance and equipment status records

• Communicate equipment issues, operational concerns, and repair needs to shoreside engineering promptly and professionally.

Schedule & Work Environment

• Equal time schedule: 30 days on / 15 days off.

• Work a 12 hour on / 12 hour off watch rotation with another engineer.

• Live aboard the tug during the hitch.

• Work in confined spaces, elevated areas, and machinery spaces as required.

• Lift tools, parts, and equipment necessary for routine and corrective maintenance.

Qualifications

• Strong background in diesel mechanics, electrical systems, pneumatics, hydraulics, and marine auxiliary equipment.
• Experience with EMD and Detroit Diesel engines preferred.
• Ability to read and interpret technical manuals, schematics, and equipment diagrams.
• Familiarity with pneumatic conveying systems, compressors, and industrial pumping equipment.
• Ability to work independently and make sound decisions in a safety-critical environment.
• Prior experience on tug and barges.
• Experience with pneumatic conveyance systems and ballast water treatment systems is preferred.
• USCG Merchant Mariner Credential and TWIC.