Chief Engineer - Maritime Operations

Chief Engineer - Maritime Operations F3EA, Inc. United States, Georgia, Savannah 110 Riverview Drive (Show on map) Jun 10, 2026 Job Summary F3EA is seeking a qualified Chief Engineer to support maritime operations aboard operational vessels supporting dynamic mission requirements. This position is responsible for leading the Engine Department and ensuring the safe, reliable, and efficient operation, maintenance, and repair of vessel propulsion systems, auxiliary machinery, electrical systems, and engineering equipment. The Chief Engineer serves as the senior engineering authority onboard and is responsible for engineering department leadership, maintenance management, regulatory compliance, emergency preparedness, and operational readiness. Personnel in this role are expected to uphold F3EA operational standards while reinforcing a culture of professionalism, accountability, safety, and mission execution. Roles and Responsibilities Lead and supervise all operations within the Engine Department
Ensure safe and efficient operation, maintenance, and repair of vessel propulsion, auxiliary, hydraulic, and electrical systems
Manage engineering department personnel, training, work schedules, and professional development
Ensure compliance with applicable Class, Flag State, ISM, ISPS, and environmental requirements
Administer and manage the vessel Planned Maintenance System (PMS)
Monitor and execute preventative and corrective maintenance actions
Maintain Engine Room Log Book, Oil Record Book, and required engineering documentation
Manage bunker operations, fuel transfers, potable water systems, lubricants, and waste handling procedures
Ensure compliance with oil spill prevention, pollution control, and environmental regulations
Supervise engine room inspections and maintain safe, clean, and operational engineering spaces
Coordinate procurement and inventory management of spare parts and engineering supplies
Lead engineering casualty response and immediately report operational limitations affecting vessel maneuverability
Serve as Fire Chief and oversee maintenance and inspections of firefighting systems and equipment
Plan and support emergency drills, safety meetings, and vessel readiness activities
Support risk management, Job Safety Analysis (JSA), and implementation of safe work procedures
Coordinate engineering operations with vessel leadership, clients, and supporting personnel
Promote effective communication and coordination between deck, engineering, and support departments
Perform additional duties as assigned in support of vessel operations and mission requirements Supervisory Responsibilities Direct supervisory responsibility for all engineering department personnel and engine room operations. Required Qualifications and Education Valid U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) endorsed as Chief Engineer appropriate to vessel requirements
Valid STCW endorsements and required maritime certifications
Extensive experience managing vessel engineering operations aboard operational vessels
Knowledge of marine propulsion systems, auxiliary machinery, electrical systems, and engineering safety procedures
Experience managing Planned Maintenance Systems (PMS) and engineering department operations
Strong leadership, communication, and decision-making skills
Ability to work rotational schedules in maritime environments
U.S. citizenship required
Ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Defense security clearance Preferred Qualifications and Education Experience supporting government maritime operations or defense-related missions
Prior experience aboard offshore support vessels, research vessels, or similarly complex platforms
Experience operating in high operational tempo maritime environments
Prior military or government-contracted maritime experience
Familiarity with Dynamic Positioning (DP) vessel operations Work Authorization/Security Clearance Requirements Ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Defense security clearance. Physical Demands/Work Environment Operational maritime and shipboard environment
Exposure to varying weather conditions, vessel motion, machinery noise, and engineering spaces
Extended periods standing, climbing ladders, and operating in physically demanding environments
Ability to support rotational or extended underway operations as required Affirmative Action/EEO Statement F3EA, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all employment practices within our organization, including hiring, recruiting, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, leave of absence, compensation, benefits, training, and apprenticeship. F3EA, Inc. makes hiring decisions based solely on qualifications, merit, and business needs at the time. Other Duties Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee for this job.