Chief Engineer

Position Summary

Under the direction of the Port Engineer and accountable to the Captain, the Engineer has the primary responsibility for the maintenance and repair of the engines, operating systems, and appliances on the company's towboats. Responsible for the main engines and generator sets, the electrical system, the steering and hydraulic system, the heating and cooling system, the potable water system, the waste water system and sewage treatment system, the fuel and lube oil systems, and other operating systems on the vessel.

The engineer is responsible for maintaining the cleanliness and appearance of the engine room and all other machinery spaces.

• Monitor the status of the engines and operating systems while the vessel is underway. Advise Captain or Pilot, on watch, of any abnormalities in engine room equipment. Take corrective action where necessary to avoid breakdowns.
• Troubleshoot malfunctions and initiate corrective action. Provide a detailed description to the Port Engineer of malfunctions unable to correct; assist in diagnosing and correcting the problem.
• Perform preventive maintenance, as necessary, including but not limited to:
• Change main engine and generator oil and filters;
• Change fuel oil filters;
• Lubricate rudder shaft bearings and/or bushings;
• Perform repairs to the vessel structure, heating/cooling system, electrical system, plumbing, and sewage disposal system. Assist the Port Engineer or contractors in performing these repairs, if necessary.
• Troubleshoot and repair the galley appliances, washer and dryer as necessary.
• Monitor the amount of fuel and operating fluid (fuel, lube, oil, water, etc.) on board and report it to the Captain. Direct the activity of taking fuel and/or operating fluid on board the vessel.
• Ensure that the correct amount of fuel is carried in the day tank. Monitor the condition of the fuel in the main tanks and the day tank to avoid an accumulation of water in the tanks.
• Maintain the engine room log sheets covering all repairs and/or problems with the equipment in a complete, accurate and legible manner.
• Maintain and repair motors and deck equipment on vessel and barges as necessary.
• Maintain the engine and rudder rooms in a clean and orderly fashion; direct and assist in the cleaning and painting of the engine and rudder rooms when necessary.
• Direct the activities and provide instruction to those in training as they relate to the engine room.
• Assist and direct those assigned to assist in overhauling the main engines, generator sets, gearboxes, and other operating systems on the vessel.
• Assist, as directed, in making periodic safety inspections of the vessel; ensure deficiencies are properly recorded and corrective action is taken.
• Maintain, adjust and repair the searchlights as necessary.
• Make up light cords as required.
• Maintain assigned sleeping quarters in a clean and orderly manner.
• Perform duties in accordance with the Company's safety rules, operating regulations and practices and report unsafe conditions and practices.
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.
• Valid TWIC
• Must pass pre-employment drug test and submit to random DOT testing requirements