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Vessel Engineer Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Ingram Barge Company

Vessel Engineer

Paducah, KY

Ensuring vessel operation through regular maintenance of vessel systems * Supervision of JR. Engineers and Deckhands to assist with engine room activities * Performing other related duties as ...

Ingram Barge Company

Vessel Engineer

Paducah, KY · On-site

Ensuring vessel operation through regular maintenance of vessel systems * Supervision of JR. Engineers and Deckhands to assist with engine room activities * Performing other related duties as ...

Ingram Barge Company

Port Engineer

Paducah, KY · On-site

Coordinating vessel maintenance, repairs, and down time to engineering managers * Working with vendors to schedule and coordinate maintenance and repairs within required or requested timeline

American Cruise Lines

Engineer - Licensed

Louisville, KY

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Engineers report directly to the ship's Captain regarding daily vessel operations and maintenance, while coordinating repairs, professional development, scheduling, training, and mentoring in ...

American Cruise Lines

Engineer - Licensed

Henderson, KY

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Engineers report directly to the ship's Captain regarding daily vessel operations and maintenance, while coordinating repairs, professional development, scheduling, training, and mentoring in ...

American Cruise Lines

Engineer - Licensed

Henderson, KY · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Engineers report directly to the ship's Captain regarding daily vessel operations and maintenance, while coordinating repairs, professional development, scheduling, training, and mentoring in ...

American Cruise Lines

Engineer - Licensed

Louisville, KY · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Engineers report directly to the ship's Captain regarding daily vessel operations and maintenance, while coordinating repairs, professional development, scheduling, training, and mentoring in ...

Marquette Transportation Company LLC

Chief Engineer

Paducah, KY · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

With more than 1,800 vessel and shore-based employees, Marquette is the largest independent towing ... A valid driver's license is required for rental car use during engineer crew changes. Marquette ...

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All JobsVessel Engineer JobsVessel Engineer Jobs in Kentucky

Vessel Engineer information

See Kentucky salary details

$51.7K

$97K

$176.3K

How much do vessel engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for vessel engineer in Kentucky is $96,955.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $69,900.00 and $115,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a vessel engineer?

Vessel engineers are professionals responsible for maintaining and operating the mechanical and electrical systems on ships, boats, and other marine vessels. They ensure that engines, pumps, power generation systems, and other equipment function safely and efficiently during voyages. Vessel engineers troubleshoot issues, perform routine maintenance, and comply with maritime regulations to keep vessels seaworthy. Their role is critical to the smooth operation and safety of marine transportation.

What is the difference between Vessel Engineer vs Marine Engineer?

AspectVessel EngineerMarine Engineer
CredentialsEngineering degree, certifications in marine systemsEngineering degree, marine certifications
Work EnvironmentOnboard ships, shipyardsOn ships, maritime facilities
Industry UsageShip management companies, shipping linesShipbuilding, repair, maritime operations
Job FocusMaintaining vessel systems, ensuring operational safetyDesign, repair, and maintenance of marine engines and systems

Vessel Engineers primarily focus on maintaining and operating vessel systems onboard ships, ensuring safety and efficiency. Marine Engineers often work in shipbuilding or repair facilities, focusing on designing and repairing marine engines and systems. While both roles require similar credentials and work in maritime environments, Vessel Engineers are more involved in onboard operations, whereas Marine Engineers may work more in workshops or design settings.

What are some typical challenges a vessel engineer might face while working at sea, and how are they addressed?

Vessel Engineers often encounter challenges such as unexpected mechanical failures, harsh weather conditions, and maintaining complex systems with limited resources while at sea. To address these, engineers rely on thorough preventative maintenance, effective troubleshooting skills, and strong teamwork with other crew members. Regular drills and ongoing training help ensure readiness for emergencies, while clear communication with the bridge and shore-based technical support can provide additional guidance when needed.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a vessel engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Vessel Engineer, you need a strong background in marine engineering, mechanical systems, and regulatory compliance, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree and maritime certifications such as a STCW Engineer Officer license. Familiarity with engine room management systems, diagnostic software, and maintenance tools is essential. Problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication are critical soft skills for ensuring smooth operations and rapid response to technical issues. These skills and qualifications are crucial for maintaining vessel safety, minimizing downtime, and ensuring compliance with maritime regulations.

What are popular job titles related to Vessel Engineer jobs in Kentucky?

For Vessel Engineer jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Vessel Engineer jobs in Kentucky look for?

The top searched job categories for Vessel Engineer jobs in Kentucky are:

What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Vessel Engineer jobs?

Cities in Kentucky with the most Vessel Engineer job openings:

Vessel Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Vessel Engineer job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 91% In-person, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,955 per year, or $46.6 per hour.

Vessel Engineer

Ingram Barge Company

Paducah, KY

Full-time

Re-posted 7 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 of barges 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

Navigate your way toward an exciting career!

Does putting your mechanical skills and knowledge of vessel systems to use sound exciting? If so, look no further - Ingram Marine Group is looking to bring a skilled, safe and efficient Engineer onboard!

  • Practicing safe crew, vessel and tow operation using Ingram safety systems and policies
  • Participation in safety drills and audits
  • Good housekeeping in engine room through regular cleaning, painting and maintenance
  • Directing fuel transfers, lubricants and bilge from fuel flat in accordance with procedures
  • Maintaining logs of engine hours, fuel transfers and other maintenance activities
  • Compliance and enforcing USCG and environmental regulations as well as company policies
  • Conducting repairs to vessel engines, generators and other vessel systems as required
  • Ensuring vessel operation through regular maintenance of vessel systems
  • Supervision of JR. Engineers and Deckhands to assist with engine room activities
  • Performing other related duties as assigned
Qualifications
  • Demonstration of felt leadership
  • Strong interpersonal skills
  • Ability to perform in a fast paced environment
  • Ability to interact and communicate at all levels within the organization
  • Intermediate skills with MS Outlook and Internet Explorer
  • Working knowledge of welding, plumbing and refrigeration concepts
  • Ability to identify and employ appropriate safety practices in order to manage risks
  • Basic critical thinking and decision making skills
  • Working knowledge of vessel systems (propulsion, steering, waste, etc.)
  • Ability to safely operate aboard a vessel & perform necessary deck tasks within safety guidelines
  • Quick but logical responses to unexpected circumstances and safety concerns
  • Ability to apply mechanical and electrical skills while repairing and maintaining the vessel
  • Possess a valid Driver's License
  • Possess or be able to obtain a valid TWIC card (Transportation Worker Identification Credential)
  • Pass a post-offer process if an offer is made (background check, drug screen, physical)
  • Be able to climb a ladder and able to board and ride in a skiff
  • Be able to work away from home for extended periods of time (14, 21 or 28 day hitches)
  • Must be able to read and write the English language in order to comply with USCG regulatory requirements
Additional Information

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

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

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

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

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

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