Marine Engineer (Part Time)

CRABI Robotics Inc•Medford, OR

About The Position

We are seeking a hands-on marine engineer to support the maintenance, reliability, and occasional assistance with operation of our LCM-8 testing platform. This role focuses on preventative maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair execution across diesel propulsion, electrical, hydraulics, plumbing, bilge/dewatering, and general marine systems. The ideal candidate can operate the engineering side similarly to a licensed marine engineer and can reasonably man the helm when needed for a twin-screw ~75 ft vessel (USCG 100-Ton Master Captain's License desired, but not required)

Requirements

5+ years of hands-on marine engineering, marine diesel, port engineer, or commercial vessel maintenance experience
Strong mechanical troubleshooting skills (diesel propulsion and auxiliaries)
Working knowledge of marine electrical (DC/AC), including safe use of meters and basic schematic comprehension
Working knowledge of marine hydraulics (pressure/flow troubleshooting, contamination control, hose/fitting standards)
Comfortable working in engine rooms (heat/noise/confined spaces, ladders, lifting, dirty work)
Ability to write clear maintenance notes and communicate issues directly and professionally

Nice To Haves

Detroit Diesel 71-series familiarity (e.g., 6-71 / 12V-71), including cooling system discipline and injector-related troubleshooting
Twin-screw handling experience on workboats/landing craft/tugs
Generator troubleshooting, shore power integration, battery bank management
Familiarity with USCG/inspection culture and strong safety habits
USCG Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with an engine-room rating
QMED (Qualified Member of the Engine Department) or higher
Designated Duty Engineer (DDE) endorsement (best alignment with “licensed engineer” capability for smaller vessels)
TWIC
STCW Basic Training (if operational profile requires)
Master <100 GRT (nice-to-have for formal helm coverage)
US Drivers’ License

Responsibilities

Execute preventative maintenance for main propulsion diesels (Detroit Diesel familiarity preferred), gears, and auxiliary systems
Maintain fuel, lube oil, cooling, and raw-water systems; monitor/resolve leaks, overheating, and contamination issues
Maintain and troubleshoot hydraulic systems (pumps, valves, filtration, hoses/fittings, HPUs) and hydraulic deck machinery as installed
Maintain electrical systems (DC distribution, starting/charging, batteries, alternators; shore power/AC panels/generators as installed)
Maintain plumbing systems (freshwater/raw water, heads/sanitation, washdowns) and general marine plumbing systems
Maintain bilge/dewatering systems, alarms, and emergency systems (and fire systems as installed)
Maintain a clean, orderly engine room and service spaces; keep tools/spares organized and inspection-ready
Maintain vessel in compliance with modern USCG rules and regulations
Perform pre-sail checks and post-run inspections; track consumables (fuel/transmission & engine oil/coolant) and operating hours
Stand engineering watch as needed and support safe operations (LOTO discipline, spill prevention, dewatering readiness)
Document defects and corrective actions; coordinate vendors, services, and parts procurement
Recommend practical reliability improvements and upgrades (no unnecessary complexity)
Develop SOPs and documents for startup, running, and troubleshooting procedures for all systems
Serve as a relief helm on a twin-screw vessel when required, including docking/undocking support and close-quarters maneuvering
Coordinate effectively with crew for line handling and safe vessel movements