Port Engineer

King Ocean•Fort Lauderdale, FL

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Port Engineer is responsible for overseeing the technical condition, maintenance, repair, and operational readiness of assigned vessels while in port and during voyage planning support. The role ensures vessels remain compliant with Flag State, Class, Port State Control, USCG, ISM, SOLAS, MARPOL, and company requirements while minimizing downtime and optimizing operational efficiency. The Port Engineer acts as the primary technical liaison between ship staff, owners, charterers, contractors and Class, and regulatory authorities for all engineering and maintenance matters.

Requirements

Degree or diploma in Marine Engineering, Naval Architecture, Mechanical Engineering, or related field
Minimum 5–10 years of maritime technical experience
Previous experience onboard vessels and/or, in ship management preferred
Strong knowledge of marine machinery, propulsion systems, electrical systems, and shipboard maintenance
Familiarity with Class, Flag, and USCG requirements
Experience with dry dockings and repair project management
Strong technical troubleshooting ability
Excellent project management skills
Strong written and verbal communication
Vendor and contractor negotiation skills
Budgeting and cost-control capabilities
Ability to work under pressure and respond to emergencies
Strong personality and decision-making ability
Proficiency in MS Office Suite, MS Project, PMS systems, and technical reporting software
Language proficiency: English and Spanish required

Nice To Haves

Marine Engineer Officer License

Responsibilities

Monitor the technical performance and condition of assigned vessels
Coordinate preventive and corrective maintenance activities
Supervise repairs, troubleshooting, and emergency breakdown response
Ensure critical machinery and equipment remain operational and compliant
Attend vessels regularly to assess machinery, deck equipment, cargo systems, ramps, and structural condition
Review defect reports and ensure timely rectification
Plan and supervise repairs, routine maintenance and special projects
Prepare technical specifications and repair scopes of work
Evaluate quotations and help coordinate contractor selection
Monitor repair progress, budgets, and timelines
Verify quality of workmanship and completion of repairs
Prepare completion reports and technical close-out documentation
Ensure compliance with Flag State requirements, Classification Society requirements, USCG regulations, Port State Control requirements, SOLAS / MARPOL / ISM Code requirements
Coordinate inspections, surveys, audits, and certifications
Support deficiency closures and corrective action plans
Liaise with Class, Flag Administration, and regulatory authorities
Prepare repair estimates and maintenance budgets
Monitor vessel technical expenditures
Review and approve technical invoices and contractor billing
Control spare parts consumption and procurement planning
Optimize maintenance costs without compromising safety or compliance
Coordinate shipyard activities and contractor attendance
Supervise service providers, technicians, surveyors, and flying squads
Ensure contractors comply with safety and permit requirements
Evaluate vendor performance and service quality
Maintain technical records and service reports
Prepare incident reports, off-hire reports, and repair summaries
Track maintenance history and vessel deficiencies
Submit management reports with technical recommendations
Ensure all drawings, certificates, and approval documents are properly maintained