Job Description: Chief Engineer
The Chief Engineer is the head of the Engineering Department on board and holds full responsibility for the safe, efficient, and reliable operation, maintenance, and repair of all machinery, systems, and technical spaces onboard the vessel.
The Chief Engineer ensures compliance with applicable maritime regulations, company policies, and safety and environmental standards, while managing engineering personnel and resources.
Key Responsibilities
A. Operational & Technical Oversight
Oversee the operation and maintenance of the main propulsion system, auxiliary engines, boilers, compressors, pumps, HVAC, freshwater systems, fuel, lubrication, and other machinery and technical systems.
Ensure all systems remain within design parameters and performance standards.
Monitor performance indicators (temperatures, pressures, fuel consumption, emissions, etc.) and initiate corrective actions as required.
Lead fault diagnosis, troubleshooting, and repair activities for critical system failures or malfunctions.
Ensure standby systems are in a state of readiness and tested regularly.
Approve and supervise all major repairs and modifications, whether carried out by ship staff or contractors.
B. Safety, Environmental & Regulatory Compliance
Implement and enforce safe working practices and permit-to-work procedures in the engine department.
Ensure full compliance with SOLAS, MARPOL, STCW, Flag State, Class, ISM, and company policies.
Maintain and supervise pollution prevention equipment, including oily water separators, incinerators, bilge systems, and exhaust gas systems.
Oversee fuel and lubricant oil systems to minimize leakages, ensure proper purifying and storage, and prevent fire hazards.
Conduct routine inspections of safety and firefighting equipment and maintain Life-Saving and Fire Control systems.
Prepare for, manage, and respond to emergencies (fire, flooding, machinery failure) and act as the primary technical lead in such situations.
Ensure all engineering documentation, logs, records, and reports are accurate, up to date, and available for audits and inspections.
C. Management, Planning & Budgeting
Lead, instruct, and supervise all engineering officers, technicians, and ratings. Establish standing orders, shift rosters, and job assignments.
Develop, update, and enforce the Planned Maintenance System (PMS) and maintenance schedules to prevent deferred defects.
Forecast and manage spare parts, consumables, tools, and stores inventory. Ensure minimum levels of critical spares are maintained.
Prepare annual and voyage-specific budget proposals for the engineering department and monitor expenditure against the approved budget.
Liaise with shore-based Technical Superintendents, vendors, and classification societies during port calls, dry-docking, or major repairs.
Plan and oversee dry-docking, surveys, and repair projects, ensuring full compliance with class and flag requirements.
D. Training, Discipline & Leadership
Mentor and train junior engineers and ratings in technical knowledge, safety practices, and company procedures.
Conduct performance evaluations, appraisals, and disciplinary actions in line with company policies.
Promote a “safety-first” culture, encourage feedback, continuous improvement, and strict adherence to policies.
Communicate clearly and proactively with the Master, other departments, and shore management regarding engineering status, concerns, and planned activities.
Experience & Skills Requirements
Minimum 2 years of sailing experience as Chief Engineer on passenger or similar vessel type.
Previous experience as Staff Engineer or 1st Engineer on vessels of similar power and complexity.
Proven leadership and team management skills.
Strong technical knowledge of propulsion systems, auxiliary machinery, HVAC, automation, and pollution prevention systems.
Excellent understanding of international maritime regulations and engineering best practices.
Strong communication skills in English, both written and verbal.
Physically fit and capable of working in demanding engine room environments.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
No unplanned downtime of propulsion or critical systems.
Full compliance in class, flag, and PSC inspections.
Zero overdue PMS tasks on critical systems.
Efficient fuel and lube oil consumption.
Proper management of critical spares inventory.
Zero major safety incidents or environmental violations.
High engineering crew performance and retention.
