Chief Engineer

Chief Engineer (R/V Virginia)

Job Requisition: JR101858

The Research Vessel (R/V) Chief Engineer serves as Chief Engineer on the R/V Virginia, ensuring compliance with federal and state maritime regulations and VIMS rules, and directing all shipboard engineering activities while on watch.

• Oversee the maintenance and operation of all deck and safety equipment.
• Effectively operate and maintain all engineering-related aspects of the R/V Virginia, including operating the A-Frame, J-Frame, crane, trawl winches, and CTD winch to safely accomplish scientific operations.
• Participate in the repair or replacement of engineering-related systems and interface directly with the vessel’s Master for critical equipment repairs.
• Assume overall responsibility for the cleanliness and organization of the engine-room and other engineering-related spaces.
• Provide shoreside or seagoing support for other vessels in the VIMS fleet as needed.

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Valid Driver’s License.
• Certified in First Aid/CPR.
• Valid TWIC credential.
• Valid STCW credential appropriate for vessel tonnage.
• Prior sea service as a qualified member of the engine department or equivalent position aboard vessels with a rating of DDE 4000HP.
• License issued by the United States Coast Guard (USCG) or ability to obtain DDE 4000 within six months of start date (eligible applicants must have attended a USCG‑approved training course).
• Knowledge of federal, state and local regulations, including the Federal Code of Regulations (CFRs), governing vessels under 300 gross registered tons.
• Proficiency with MS Office applications.
• Ability to read and comprehend vessel as‑built drawings, including electrical one‑line diagrams.
• Substantive experience with marine engineering, including maintenance and repair of diesel engines, hydraulic systems, MSD systems, reverse osmosis systems, ship‑board electrical systems, and refrigeration.

• NMES 2000 Certification, ABYC Electrical and ABYC Refrigeration Certifications.
• Familiarity with programmable logic controllers (PLC).
• Knowledge of AC/DC circuits and various pneumatic and hydraulic systems.
• Experience working on research vessels or in the commercial industry.
• Experience with Cummins QSK 19M diesel engines.
• Experience with computerized maintenance management software programs.
• Experience leading small groups.

Starting at $75,000.00, commensurate with experience, qualifications, and internal equity.

This is a non‑exempt position eligible for overtime in accordance with the Fair Labor Standards Act. The role may require overtime hours approved by a supervisor and may involve reporting to work when the University or VIMS is closed. Compliance with the U.S. Coast Guard mandated drug screening and random drug testing program, as well as a USCG physical and the ability to lift up to 50lbs, is required.

The position may occasionally require a schedule of more than 12 hours, weekends, and holidays, and the ability to perform duties while exposed to inclement weather at sea for extended periods.

William & Mary offers a competitive range of benefits that support employee well‑being and professional growth, including access to on‑campus fitness facilities, university libraries, and other wellness resources. Educational assistance, professional development opportunities, and a robust holiday schedule are also available.

EEO is the Law. Applicants can learn more about William & Mary’s status as an equal opportunity employer by viewing the "Know Your Rights" poster published by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.