Chief Engineer I

Chief Engineer I – Lead Engineering Operations for U.S. Army 2000 Class LCU

Join our mission-critical team as a Chief Engineer I, where you will play a pivotal role in ensuring the seamless operation, maintenance, and compliance of the U.S. Army’s 2000 Class Landing Craft Utility (LCU) and associated marine assets. Reporting directly to the program leadership, this position demands exceptional technical expertise, leadership, and a commitment to maintaining the highest standards of maritime engineering in support of LOGCAP*** operations in the Marshall Islands.

As the Chief Engineer, you will oversee the entire engineering plant, propulsion systems, and auxiliary machinery, ensuring operational readiness, safety, and adherence to stringent regulatory and military standards. This is a dynamic role that blends hands-on technical execution with strategic oversight, requiring both precision and adaptability in a demanding maritime environment.

Key Responsibilities

In this leadership-focused position, your responsibilities will include:

• Technical Leadership: Supervise, operate, and maintain the engineering plant, propulsion systems, and auxiliary machinery on the assigned 2000 Class LCU or tug vessel, ensuring peak performance and reliability.
• Maintenance Coordination: Oversee the preventive maintenance program in collaboration with the Port Engineer and Marine Repair Shops, ensuring all systems meet ABS Load-line and U.S. Army standards through proactive planning and execution.
• Resource Management: Determine parts, supplies, and material requirements to support safe and efficient vessel operations, leveraging data-driven insights to anticipate long-term maintenance needs.
• Watch Management: Supervise engineering watch members, fostering a culture of safety, accountability, and technical excellence.
• Data Accuracy: Accurately input Operations & Maintenance (O&M) data while projecting future maintenance needs to minimize downtime and optimize vessel performance.
• Field Operations: Perform hands-on work both in port and at sea, utilizing tools such as drills, torches, and welding equipment to conduct repairs and maintenance on assigned vessels or as required by mission demands.
• Compliance and Safety: Ensure strict adherence to U.S. Coast Guard regulations, ABS Load-line requirements, and U.S. Army protocols, while remaining on standby/recall status during dockside periods to address urgent operational needs.
• Dry-Dock Oversight: Participate in the vessel’s On-Condition Cyclic Maintenance (OCCM) dry-docking process every three years, ensuring comprehensive inspections and repairs are conducted to extend vessel lifespan and reliability.
• Cross-Departmental Collaboration: Work closely with other departments to address marine-related challenges and align engineering efforts with broader mission objectives, including range operations and logistical requirements.
• Safety Advocacy: Take decisive action to eliminate unsafe conditions, prioritizing the well-being of crew members and the integrity of the vessel.
• Flexible Support: Provide backup engineering support as needed across multiple vessels, demonstrating adaptability and a commitment to mission success.
• Additional Duties: Perform other tasks as assigned to support the evolving needs of the program or organization.

Qualifications and Skills

To excel in this role, you must possess a robust blend of technical certifications, hands-on experience, and soft skills that drive both individual and team performance:

• Education and Certifications: High school diploma or equivalent. Coast Guard Third Assistant Engineer Unlimited license is mandatory. A valid driver’s license with an acceptable driving record is required.
• Technical Experience: Four (4) years of experience sailing as an engineer. Substitutions may be considered for up to three years of sailing experience through a combination of academy credit hours and sea project experience. Proficiency in common safety practices and protective equipment used on ocean-going vessels.
• Preferred Qualifications: U.S. Coast Guard Chief Engineer Limited Oceans license, experience with Cummins KTA engines, and prior experience on Landing Crafts are highly advantageous.
• Core Competencies:
• Technical Expertise: In-depth knowledge of Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and storage protocols to ensure compatibility of hazardous materials.
• Interpersonal Skills: Strong communication, collaboration, and leadership abilities to manage teams and interface effectively with cross-functional stakeholders.
• Judgment and Discretion: Ability to make sound decisions under pressure while maintaining confidentiality and professionalism.
• Attention to Detail: Unwavering precision in data input, maintenance records, and compliance documentation.
• English Proficiency: Advanced verbal and written communication skills to facilitate clear and effective interactions.
• Organizational Acumen: High-level planning and workflow management to ensure operational efficiency and accuracy.

Working Environment

This role operates in a highly demanding and physically rigorous environment, requiring resilience and adaptability to thrive:

• Work in extreme weather conditions, including temperatures exceeding 120°F, with prolonged exposure to tropical climates averaging 130°F during summer months.
• Engage in both indoor and outdoor settings, including industrial production environments, where exposure to fumes, odors, dust, mists, gases, or poor ventilation may occur.
• Perform tasks in adverse and harsh conditions, such as wet, hot, or tropical environments, with potential physical strain and exposure to marine elements.

The ideal candidate will bring not only technical mastery but also a proactive mindset, a commitment to safety, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment. If you are passionate about maritime engineering and eager to contribute to critical U.S. Army operations, we invite you to apply.