Deck Engineer

Location: WA, OR, CA, ID | Job Type: Full-Time, Part-Time, Seasonal | Industry: Marine Construction & Dredging Operations

About the Position

HME is seeking a skilled Deck Engineer to oversee vessel maintenance, mechanical repairs, and equipment operations in support of marine construction, dredging, and pile driving projects. The Deck Engineer is responsible for maintaining vessel engines, hydraulics, pumps, and onboard mechanical systems to ensure uninterrupted operations.

This role requires strong troubleshooting skills, expertise in marine diesel and gasoline engines, and experience with hydraulic and electrical systems aboard tugs, workboats, and derrick barges. The Deck Engineer reports to the Dredging Operator and collaborates with Marine Superintendents to ensure all marine assets remain operational and compliant with federal, state, and maritime regulations.

Key Responsibilities

• Reports to the Dredging Operator and collaborates with Marine Superintendents.
• Operate winches for spuds and mooring cables.
• Maintain and repair marine engines, hydraulics, winches, and auxiliary systems on tugboats, dredges, and workboats.
• Troubleshoot and repair fuel, electrical, and mechanical systems to minimize downtime.
• Conduct preventative maintenance, oil changes, and system diagnostics.
• Assist with vessel modifications, upgrades, and retrofits.
• Maintain detailed maintenance logs and compliance records per USCG, OSHA, and company regulations, ensuring timely reporting and documentation for audits.
• Ensure compliance with environmental and maritime safety standards, including fuel handling and hazardous materials management.
• Work closely with the Captain and vessel crew to ensure safe marine operations.
• Conduct routine inspections and maintenance of vessel coatings to prevent corrosion and structural degradation.
• Supervise Deckhands in completing assigned duties.
• Perform additional tasks as directed by the Dredging Operator.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Minimum 3+ years of experience in marine diesel engine maintenance and vessel mechanical systems.
• Experience with hydraulic systems, winches, and propulsion systems on marine vessels.
• Strong troubleshooting skills for mechanical and electrical components.
• Comprehensive knowledge of USCG vessel safety regulations and compliance standards.

Preferred Certifications & Licenses

• TWIC (Transportation Worker Identification Credential) Card.
• OSHA 10 or 30-Hour Maritime Safety Training.
• First Aid/CPR Certification.
• Welding Certification (AWS D1.1 or equivalent preferred) for vessel repairs, structural modifications, and custom fabrications.

Relevant Industry Training & Experience

• Hands-on experience with marine diesel and gasoline engines.
• Knowledge of marine electrical systems, including generators and AC/DC circuits.
• Familiarity with dredging and marine construction vessel maintenance requirements.
• Expertise in marine fuel system maintenance and spill prevention protocols.

Veteran Applicants Encouraged

Veterans are strongly encouraged to apply.

Industry-Leading Standards & Compliance

This role ensures adherence to the highest industry standards, including:

• Maritime Vessel Maintenance & Safety Regulations – Ensuring vessels meet operational and environmental compliance requirements.
• OSHA Construction Standards – Enforcing OSHA safety regulations at all times.
• USACE Operations Standards – Meeting government project requirements for equipment maintenance and reliability.

Technical & Tool Proficiency

• Welding – Proficiency in welding.
• Marine Hydraulics – Experience maintaining and troubleshooting hydraulic systems aboard vessels.
• Company Software & Communication Tools – Mobile workforce management apps.
• Marine Winch Operation – Expertise in operating winches for mooring, spuds, etc.
• Boating Operations – Experience operating crew and work boats.
• Marine Diagnostic Software – Proficiency in engine monitoring and diagnostic tools.