Job Summary

An established marine operations company is seeking an experienced Port Engineer to oversee the maintenance, repair, and operational readiness of its fleet. This role ensures compliance with regulatory standards, manages preventative maintenance programs, and collaborates with vessel crews, management, and external vendors to maximise fleet efficiency and reliability.

The Port Engineer plays a key role in planning and executing maintenance projects, supervising emergency repairs, and optimising operational costs while maintaining the highest safety and environmental standards.

Key Responsibilities

Fleet Maintenance & Repairs

• Develop, implement, and manage preventative maintenance programmes across the fleet.
• Conduct inspections to ensure vessel safety, performance, and regulatory compliance.
• Plan and oversee dry-docking and major shipyard projects, including budgeting, scheduling, and execution.
• Diagnose and support resolution of mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic issues onboard vessels.
• Coordinate emergency repairs and respond to vessel incidents.
• Work closely with vessel crews to ensure accurate maintenance records and daily operational reporting.

Regulatory Compliance & Documentation

• Ensure vessels meet all applicable maritime and safety regulations.
• Maintain certification, inspection, and audit documentation.
• Support regulatory inspections and ensure timely completion of corrective actions.
• Promote adherence to environmental standards and internal policies.

Budgeting & Cost Management

• Develop and manage maintenance and repair budgets with a focus on cost efficiency.
• Oversee procurement, spare parts inventory, and supplier negotiations.
• Monitor maintenance trends and implement cost-saving initiatives.

Crew Training & Support

• Provide technical guidance and training to onboard engineers and crew.
• Support recruitment, performance evaluation, and development of engineering personnel.

Operational Support

• Provide on-call support for vessel-related issues as required.
• Ensure vessels are maintained in a state of readiness for operations.
• Collaborate with operations and marine teams to optimise fleet performance.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Marine Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline preferred.
• Minimum 5 years’ experience in vessel maintenance and repair (tugs, OSVs, crew boats, or barges preferred).
• Relevant maritime certification (e.g., Merchant Mariner Credential or equivalent).
• Strong knowledge of vessel regulations, dry-docking, shipyard operations, and compliance standards.
• Experience with budgeting, cost control, and procurement processes.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and maintenance management systems (e.g., Helm, AutoCAD).
• Valid transportation/security credentials or ability to obtain them.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Physically able to board vessels, climb ladders, and work in marine environments.

Work Environment & Conditions

• Work is split between office, shipyard, and onboard vessel environments.
• Requires travel and flexibility, including nights, weekends, and emergency call-outs.
• Exposure to marine conditions such as adverse weather, confined spaces, and mechanical hazards.

Why Join Us?

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunity to work with a skilled and experienced marine operations team.
• Chance to contribute to the performance and growth of a dynamic fleet.
• Hands-on, fast-paced working environment.

Darwin Recruitment is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.

Kieran Mead