Licensed Engineer

Tugboat Engineer

The Tugboat Engineer is responsible for the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of all mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, towing, and auxiliary systems aboard the vessel. This role ensures continuous propulsion and power generation capability while maintaining compliance with company standards, regulatory requirements, and industry best practices.

Key Responsibilities

Vessel Machinery Operation & Maintenance

• Operate, monitor, and maintain main propulsion engines (EMD, Caterpillar, Cummins, Wabtec, Mitsubishi, Alco) and generators (Detroit Diesel, John Deere, Cummins, Caterpillar).
• Perform routine inspections, preventative maintenance, and troubleshooting of:
  • Diesel engines
  • Electrical systems
  • Hydraulic systems
  • Pneumatic systems
  • Engine control systems
  • Reduction gears
  • Tow machines
  • Pumps, compressors, and auxiliary machinery
• Diagnose and repair mechanical and electrical faults to minimize downtime and ensure safe vessel operations.

Operational Support

• Maintain continuous oversight of propulsion and power systems during towing, docking, maneuvering, and standby operations.
• Coordinate with the captain and shoreside 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 engineering logs, maintenance records, and equipment status reports.
• Complete required company engineering documentation, including discrepancy reports, maintenance logs, and regulatory checklists.
• Ensure compliance with USCG, ABS, and company safety and environmental policies.

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.
• Uphold a clean, safe, and well-organized engine room environment.

Shipyard & Repair Periods

• Assist with executing, and overseeing shipyard repairs, drydockings, and major overhauls under the supervision of a project manager.
• Work with contractors, vendors, and port engineers to ensure repairs meet specifications and regulatory standards.

Requirements

Qualifications

Required

• USCG Merchant Mariner Credential with appropriate endorsements (DDE, QMED, or higher)
• 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.

Preferred

• Prior experience as a tugboat engineer or similar marine engineering role.
• Welding and fabrication skills.
• Familiarity with electronic engine controls and modern monitoring systems.

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.

Work Schedule

• Typical schedule is 30/15.