Port Engineer – Tugboat Fleet (Remote with Travel)

Full-time Description The Port Engineer is responsible for the technical management, maintenance oversight, and operational readiness of a fleet of oceangoing and inland tugboats. This role blends hands-on troubleshooting with planning, contractor coordination, and shipyard project management. The Port Engineer will support vessels across multiple ports, respond to emergent issues, and ensure the fleet operates safely, efficiently, and in compliance with company and regulatory standards. This is a remote position with a rotating on-call schedule shared among four Port Engineers.

Key Responsibilities

Fleet Maintenance & Technical Support Oversee the maintenance, repair, and operational condition of all assigned tugboats. Troubleshoot mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and electronic control issues as they occur. Manage preventative maintenance schedules for all vessels. Conduct repairs within personal skill level; coordinate contractors for specialized or major repairs. Support vessels equipped with a wide range of propulsion and generator systems, including: Main Engines: EMD, Caterpillar, Cummins, Wabtec, Mitsubishi, Alco Generators: Detroit Diesel, John Deere, Cummins, Caterpillar Work with both pneumatic and electronic engine control systems. Oversee maintenance and troubleshooting of pneumatic and hydraulic reduction gears Inspect, troubleshoot, and repair direct drive and hydraulic towing machines. Operational Support Travel to vessels as needed to support emergent repairs, inspections, and operational issues. Provide technical guidance to vessel crews and assist with troubleshooting remotely when possible. Ensure vessels maintain compliance with company standards, USCG regulations, and class requirements. Shipyard & Project Management Lead and manage scheduled shipyard periods, including: Scope development Contractor oversight Budget tracking Quality assurance Daily progress monitoring Remain onsite for the duration of major shipyard periods (typically 30 days). Documentation & Reporting Complete detailed Port Engineering Reports for all major repairs, emergent issues, and shipyard periods. Submit reports to upper management, including summaries of work performed, costs, delays, and recommendations. Maintain accurate maintenance records, service logs, and equipment histories. Review and approve repair invoices, parts orders, and contractor documentation.

Requirements

Qualifications Required Strong background in diesel mechanics, including medium-speed and high-speed marine engines. Proficiency in electrical systems, pneumatics, hydraulics, electronics, and control systems. Experience with welding and fabrication for marine applications. Solid understanding of general seamanship, vessel operations, and marine safety practices. Hands-on experience with vessel repairs, troubleshooting, and maintenance planning. Ability to read and interpret technical manuals, schematics, and engineering drawings. Strong organizational and communication skills. Willingness to travel frequently and stay overnight as required. Preferred Prior experience as a Port Engineer, Chief Engineer, ABS inspector or shoreside maintenance manager. Experience with pneumatic control systems and hydraulic gear systems. Shipyard project management experience. Familiarity with ABS, USCG, and other regulatory frameworks. Physical Requirements Ability to work in confined spaces, machinery spaces, and other restricted areas. Ability to work in elevated areas, including accessing stacks, masts, and upper deck structures. Ability to lift parts, tools, and supplies as required for vessel maintenance. Ability to climb ladders, gangways, and vertical access points aboard vessels and in shipyards. Comfortable working in industrial environments with heat, noise, and moving machinery. Work Environment & Expectations Remote work with significant autonomy and responsibility. Company vehicle provided for travel to vessels and shipyards. Must be able to respond to vessel needs during on-call weeks. Hands-on work in industrial and marine environments, including confined spaces and elevated areas. Position Type: Full-Time, Remote. Schedule: Rotating On-Call (1 week on / 3 weeks off). Travel: Required during shipyard periods and as operational needs dictate. A company vehicle is provided.