Job Description

Position Type: Part-time or full time available (2 days/week min) Start: ASAP Vessel/Platform: LCM-8 Mod 1 (twin-screw ~75 ft landing craft) used as our testing platform for ongoing operations and development work for our hull cleaning device.  Future Opportunity: Strong performers may transition to a full-time role at the company as needs grow.  
 
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) 
 
Key Responsibilities 
Maintenance & readiness:

• 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 

Operational engineering support:

• 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 

Helm support:

• 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 

 
Required Experience & Skills 

• 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 

Preferred Qualifications 

• 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 

  Credentials / Qualifications 
Candidates with the following are strongly preferred, but won’t be disqualified if skills are adequate: 

• 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 

  Physical Requirements 

• Lift/carry tools and components; climb ladders; work in confined spaces 
• Tolerate heat, noise, and typical marine industrial conditions 
• Use PPE and follow safety procedures consistently 
• Able to safely drive both automobiles and the LCM-8 marine vessel 

  How to Apply 
Please provide a resume and a short note describing diesel platforms experience, electrical and hydraulic troubleshooting experience, any USCG credentials held, and your starting availability (ASAP preferred).