Licensed 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.

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.