Shipyard Project Manager - Tugboat & Barge Fleet

Key Responsibilities

Shipyard Planning & Coordination

• Develop detailed repair and maintenance scopes for scheduled shipyard periods.
• Solicit, review, and evaluate shipyard bids and contractor proposals.
• Coordinate project timelines, budgets, and resource allocation.
• Ensure all work aligns with company standards, regulatory requirements, and class rules.

Project Management & Oversight

• Serve as the on-site company representative during shipyard periods.
• Oversee daily progress, ensuring work is completed safely, correctly, and efficiently.
• Manage change orders, schedule adjustments, and emergent repairs.
• Conduct inspections of completed work and verify quality before acceptance.
• Coordinate with port engineers and vessel crews to ensure project alignment.

Technical & Operational Support

• Provide technical guidance on mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, and structural repairs.
• Review engineering drawings, specifications, and repair procedures.
• Support troubleshooting of complex vessel systems as needed during shipyard periods.
• Ensure proper testing, commissioning, and sea trials following major repairs.

Documentation & Reporting

• Maintain accurate project documentation, including daily progress logs, cost tracking, and change orders.
• Prepare Port Engineering/Project Manager Reports summarizing completed work, costs, delays, and recommendations.
• Submit reports to upper management and participate in post-project reviews.
• Assist the Compliance Department in ensuring all regulatory documentation, class surveys, and USCG requirements are completed and filed.

Qualifications

Required

• Strong background in marine engineering, naval architecture, or vessel repair management.
• Hands-on knowledge of tugboat and barge systems, including diesel engines, electrical systems, hydraulics, pneumatics, and structural components.
• Proven experience managing shipyard projects or major vessel repair periods.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, repair specifications, and regulatory requirements.
• Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills.
• Ability to work in industrial environments, including confined spaces and elevated areas.
• Ability to lift tools, parts, and equipment as required.

Preferred

• Experience with EMD, Caterpillar, Cummins, Wabtec, Mitsubishi, or Alco main engines.
• Experience with Detroit, John Deere, Caterpillar, Cummins generators. 
• Experience with Tank Barges.
• Experience with Ballast Water Treatment Systems.  
• Familiarity with ABS, USCG, and other maritime regulatory frameworks.
• Welding, fabrication, or marine mechanical background.
• Prior experience with tug and barge industry. 

Physical Requirements

• Ability to work in confined spaces, machinery spaces, and restricted areas.
• Ability to work in elevated areas, including masts, stacks, and scaffolding.
• Ability to lift parts, tools, and supplies as required.
• Ability to climb ladders, gangways, and vertical access points.
• Comfortable working around heat, noise, and heavy industrial equipment.

Work Environment & Expectations

• Frequent travel to shipyards and vessel locations.
• Extended on-site presence required during major repair periods.
• Fast-paced environment requiring strong decision-making and problem-solving skills.
• Close coordination with engineering, operations, and vessel crews.

Position Type: Full-Time with benefits, Shoreside (Remote with Travel)

Schedule: Monday – Friday with weekends as required by operational needs. 

Travel: Required during shipyard periods and as operational needs dictate. A company vehicle is provided.  

Shipyard: Responsible for overseeing vessel and barge shipyard periods.