Marine Mechanic (M/V Tenn-Tom Pushboat/Crane Barge)

Marine Mechanic (M/V Tenn-Tom Pushboat/Crane Barge)

Columbus, MS

Tennessee Tombigbee Waterway Project

R&D Maintenance Services, Inc. provides operations and maintenance services on U.S Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) projects throughout the southeast since 1980. We are the Operations and Maintenance Contractor for the Tennessee Tombigbee Waterway Project providing waterway, machinery and facility maintenance and repair on several hundred miles of waterway and 10 locks/dams/spillways on the system. Position is based in Columbus, MS. R&D is an EEO Employer.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

Serves as a critical team member on the M/V Tenn-Tom (pushboat/crane barge operations) on the Tennessee Tombigbee Waterway (based out of Columbus MS) which performs maintenance on the waterway system. Normal work schedule is 4 ten-hour days (Mon-Thurs) on a live-aboard basis (some routine overtime, plus overtime on major repair or lock closure projects). Responsible for care, operations, preventive and corrective maintenance on the pushboat (engine room/mains, generators, hydraulic and pneumatic systems, engine control systems, electrical systems, pumps, compressors, etc.) and new custom spud barge with integrated power, electrical, hydraulic, and auxiliary systems equipped with a 300ton Liebherr lattice boom duty cycle crane. The Marine Mechanic is supported, when necessary, by the shore-based maintenance project maintenance staff that includes Electronics Technicians, Electricians, Heavy Equipment Mechanics, and Machinery Maintenance Mechanics.

ILLUSTRATIVE TASKS / RESPONSIBILITIES:

Maintenance/Repair:

• Operate, monitor, and maintain main propulsion engines (Caterpillar 3512s) and generators (various manufacturers).
• Perform routine inspections, preventative maintenance, and troubleshooting of:
  • Diesel engines; Electrical systems; Hydraulic systems; Pneumatic systems; Engine control systems; Reduction gears; Tow gear; Pumps, compressors, hoisting and wire rope/rigging systems; and auxiliary machinery 
• Diagnose and repair mechanical and electrical faults to minimize downtime and ensure safe vessel operations.
• Lead and/or assist in preventive and corrective maintenance on the 300ton Liebherr crane.

Operational Support:

• Maintain continuous oversight of propulsion and power systems during towing, docking, maneuvering, crane operations, and standby operations.
• Coordinate with the captain and shoreside project office regarding machinery status, operational limitations, and emergent issues.
• Ensure fuel, lube oil, coolant, and consumable inventories are maintained at required levels.
• Assist deck department as required with making/breaking tow and mooring evolutions.

Recordkeeping & Compliance:

• Maintain accurate maintenance logs, records, and equipment status reports.
• Complete required documentation, including discrepancy reports, maintenance logs, and regulatory checklists.
• Ensure compliance with USCG and company safety and environmental policies.
• Assist Captain with applicable Subchapter M logs, reporting, etc.

Safety & Emergency Response:

• Participate in all drills and emergency response procedures, including fire, flooding, propulsion loss, and towing gear failures.
• Maintain all engine room safety equipment, alarms, and monitoring systems.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and well-organized engine room environment.

Drydock & Repair Periods:

• Assist with executing, and overseeing shipyard repairs, drydockings, and major overhauls under the supervision of the Captain and Project Manager.
• Work with contractors, vendors, and engineers to ensure repairs meet specifications and regulatory standards.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Strong background in diesel mechanics, towing, electrical troubleshooting, hydraulics, pneumatics, and marine systems.
• Experience working with medium- and high-speed diesel engines commonly used in tugboats.
• Ability to read and interpret technical manuals, schematics, and equipment diagrams.
• Proficiency with tools, diagnostic equipment, and safe engineering practices.
• Ability to work independently in a dynamic, safety-critical environment.
• Welding and fabrication skills.
• Must be familiar with Lock Out/Tag Out procedures for all energy sources.
• Familiarity with electronic engine controls and modern monitoring systems.
• Demonstrated ability to operate hand tools, power tools, pneumatic tools, and specialized equipment used in structural, hydraulic, and mechanical systems repair.
• Have strong mechanical aptitude, and ability to read drawings, reference manuals, repair manuals, and assembly instruction guides.
• Planning and organizing skills to effectively prioritize and plan work activities; uses time efficiently; plans for and leads additional resources; analyze and solve problems; make decisions; exercise good judgment; perform well under pressure; adapt well to change.
• Performs work safely and complies with company policies and regulatory requirements.

Physical & Work Environment Requirements:

• Ability to work in confined spaces, engine rooms, and elevated areas.
• Ability to lift tools, parts, and equipment as required for repairs.
• Ability to climb ladders, access machinery spaces, and work in varying temperatures and sea states.
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Physical requirements: bend; crouch; working with hands; hold; kneel; lift and/or carry up 20-50 pounds; pull; push; reach at or below shoulder level; reach overhead; sit; stand; squat; stoop; stretch; twist; and walk.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS/REQUIREMENTS:

• Five years of verifiable work experience as a diesel engine/power systems maintenance mechanic in a marine (Pushboat) role. Ten years preferred.
• High school diploma or equivalent required. Additional technical education in related field preferred.
• Required to successfully complete background check, MVR, and drug/alcohol screenings.

BENEFITS:

• Company Paid 401K Contribution.
• Paid Employee Health insurance.
• Employee Life insurance.
• Paid Vacation & Sick Leave.