Chief Engineer - R​/V Sikuliaq; Temporary

Overview

Seize a rare opportunity to lead the Engineering Department aboard the R/V Sikuliaq, a 261-foot, global-class, ice-capable research vessel operated by the University of Alaska. Crew turnover on the Sikuliaq is low, and positions like this are uncommon — this is your chance to apply your technical and leadership skills on science missions in the Arctic, Antarctic and everywhere in between.

As Chief Engineer, you will oversee one of the most advanced diesel-electric propulsion systems in the U.S. academic fleet, providing 5,750 bhp through frequency drives, a/c main motors, and twin azimuthing Z-drives. You will ensure the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of all propulsion, power, electrical, and auxiliary systems while mentoring and leading your engineering team.

Upcoming missions include Tahiti, Chile, and Antarctica, supporting critical oceanographic and polar research. You will work closely with scientists, students, and crew to prepare the vessel for science operations, participate in emergency drills, and maintain full regulatory compliance.

We are seeking an experienced Chief Engineer with an unlimited horsepower endorsement, strong technical expertise, proven supervisory skills, and a collaborative approach suited to challenging environments. The position begins on December 20th in Papeete, Tahiti, as a relief First Assistant Engineer. After gaining familiarity with the vessel’s systems and the trust of the crew, the candidate will be promoted to permanent Chief Engineer.

• Lead and supervise the engineering department, ensuring safe, efficient, and reliable operation of propulsion, power, electrical, and auxiliary systems.
• Prepare the vessel for science operations in coordination with scientists, students, and crew.
• Participate in emergency drills and maintain full regulatory compliance.
• Mentor and develop the engineering team, fostering a collaborative work environment.

• Minimum qualifications:
  
  US Coast Guard MMC with a National endorsement of Unlimited Horsepower Motor Chief Engineer license and an International endorsement of Chief Engineer; valid US Passport; valid TWIC card; valid USCG medical certification; valid driver’s license; ability to pass a pre-employment DOT drug test.
• Knowledge of U.S. Coast Guard rules and regulations, ISM, ABS requirements, vessel stability; maritime laws; current with applicable laws, regulations, treaties (33 CFR; 46 CFR); OSHA regulations.
• Experience with azimuthing propulsion such as Z-drives/azipods; AC diesel-electric experience.
• Minimum three years as Chief Engineer Unlimited Horsepower Motor Oceans credential. Minimum 480 V 3-phase electrical power; 690 V 3-phase power and distribution; PWM Siemens-type Blue Drive or equivalent 12-pulse solid-state propulsion frequency converter experience is highly desirable.

New hires will be placed on the UA Temporary Salary Schedule, Grade 83, based on education and experience.

This is a pooled position and applications are reviewed as needed. Submission of an application does not guarantee review or a job offer.

• Resume
• Cover Letter
• Names and contact information (email and phone) for three professional references
• Copy of MMC (all pages)
• Copy of TWIC card
• Copy of USCG Medical Certificate
• Copy of passport

For questions regarding this position, contact Laura Frisone, College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences HR Coordinator, at lfrisone or .

* To be eligible for this position, applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without restriction. Applicants who require visa sponsorship are not eligible.

The University of Alaska is responsible for providing reasonable accommodations during the applicant screening process. If you need assistance, contact UA Human Resources at .

Equal Employment Opportunity The University of Alaska is an Equal Opportunity/Equal Access Employer and Educational Institution. The University is committed to a policy of non-discrimination against individuals on the basis of any legally protected status.

The successful applicant is required to complete a background check. Any offer of employment is contingent on the background check.

Your application is subject to public disclosure under the Alaska Public Records Act. All employees are expected to uphold high ethical and professional standards.