Job Overview:
To provide hands-on technical support and management for the assigned fleet of tugs and barges, ensuring their operational readiness and compliance with safety standards.
The Port Engineer will frequently board vessels to inspect, maintain, and repair machinery and systems, directly collaborating with vessel crews and technical teams to address challenges.
This role plays a critical part in delivering reliable operations while maintaining cost efficiency and adherence to maritime regulations.
Key Tasks & Responsibilities:
1. Vessel Inspections and Maintenance
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- Conduct frequent physical inspections of vessels to assess technical conditions, identify issues, and ensure adherence to maintenance schedules.
- Perform hands-on maintenance and repairs of machinery, equipment, and systems onboard tugs and barges.
- Develop and implement preventive maintenance programs to ensure the fleet's operational reliability.
- Maintain detailed logs and reports on the condition of vessels and completed maintenance activities.
2. Technical Troubleshooting and Repairs
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- Respond promptly to technical issues or breakdowns, boarding vessels to resolve problems effectively.
- Collaborate with onboard engineers to diagnose and repair malfunctions.
- Ensure the availability of tools, spare parts, and equipment necessary for immediate repairs.
3. Budget and Resource Management
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- Assist in preparing and managing budgets for maintenance and repair activities.
- Ensure efficient use of resources, controlling costs while maintaining technical quality.
- Monitor and track expenditures, providing regular updates to the Technical Manager.
4. Safety and Compliance
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- Ensure that all vessels meet safety and regulatory standards through regular audits and inspections.
- Oversee the completion and renewal of certifications, surveys, and inspections in a timely manner.
- Promote a safety-first culture, ensuring compliance with company policies and maritime regulations.
5. Operational Support
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- Act as the first point of contact for technical issues arising on assigned vessels.
- Collaborate closely with vessel crews to align technical operations with company standards.
- Prepare vessels for operations by ensuring all systems are in optimal working order.
6. Team Collaboration and Leadership
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- Work alongside vessel engineers to ensure the proper execution of repair and maintenance tasks.
- Provide technical guidance and training to onboard engineers to improve technical competency.
- Coordinate with technical superintendents, vendors, and contractors for specialized maintenance work.
Qualifications & Skills:
- Minimum Class 2 Certificate of Competency (Marine Engineer) or equivalent qualification.
- Prior hands-on experience in maintenance and repair onboard tugs or sea-going vessels (preferred).
- Strong expertise in troubleshooting, repairing, and maintaining vessel machinery and systems.
- Experience in preparing and managing maintenance budgets effectively.
- Familiarity with maritime safety regulations and compliance standards.
- Excellent problem-solving skills with a practical, hands-on approach to technical challenges.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills for collaboration with crew and technical teams.