Assistant Port Engineer - Richmond, CA

The Assistant Port Engineer has a key role in supporting the operational readiness, maintenance, and regulatory compliance of the fleet. This includes managing vessel engineering systems, overseeing repairs, coordinating with regulatory bodies, and supervising marine personnel. The role requires strong technical, organizational, and leadership skills, with the ability to exercise discretion and independent judgment in a dynamic maritime environment. The Assistant Port Engineer will be relied upon to make critical and timely decisions that impact safety, cost, and operational readiness.

Essential Functions:

Vessel Maintenance & Repair

• Coordinate and perform preventative maintenance and emergency repairs on vessels and shoreside equipment.
• Develop and update vessel maintenance programs in collaboration with the Port Engineer.
• Conduct diagnostic evaluations and recommend service/repair actions.
• Determine methods, timelines, and costs for vessel repairs.
• Supervise engineering work in progress and ensure timely completion.
• Train engineers on vessel systems, regulatory compliance, and company procedures.
• Arrange inspections and audits (internal and external) and ensure remedy of deficiencies identified with these inspections and audits..

Safety & Environmental Compliance

• Conduct safety meetings and inspections aboard vessels.
• Promote safe work practices among employees and vendors.
• Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and proper handling of hazardous materials.
• Lead initiatives aligned with company safety vision and ethical standards.

Budgeting & Financial Oversight

• Assist in preparation and management of annual maintenance and capital budgets.
• Track and manage vessel costs, including dry-docking and emergency repairs.
• Support insurance claim evaluations and liaise with the Risk Manager on casualty-related matters.

Personnel Management

• Participate in hiring, training, dispatching, and performance management of vessel engineers.
• Provide leadership and direction to Engineering staff to achieve company goals.
• Ensure compliance with HR policies, EEO, and Affirmative Action plans.

Regulatory & Technical Compliance

• Maintain proficiency in maritime regulations (ISM, VMP, NPDES, IAPP, CARB, ABS, USCG, EPA).
• Interpret and apply maritime law, labor contracts, and safety standards.
• Coordinate with federal, state, and local agencies for inspections and certifications.

Miscellaneous Duties

• Support other regions and divisions with vessel repairs and dry-dockings.
• Perform special projects and other duties as assigned.
• Maintain accurate documentation and reporting.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Technical

• Proficient in marine engineering systems, including engines, hydraulics, pneumatics, electrical, and fuel systems.
• Ability to read and interpret technical manuals, blueprints, and schematics.
• Skilled in welding, rigging, and operation of yard equipment (cranes, forklifts, etc.).

Financial

• Strong mathematical and budgeting skills.
• Experience with cost estimation and financial planning.

Legal & Regulatory

• Knowledge of maritime law, regulatory compliance, and vessel safety standards.

Communication & Leadership

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to lead teams, delegate tasks, and manage personnel effectively without direct authority.
• Strong interpersonal skills for working with vendors, regulators, and internal teams.

Personal Traits

• Flexible, decisive, and able to prioritize tasks under pressure.
• Safety-conscious and committed to ethical conduct.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field preferred; associate degree with additional experience acceptable.
• Minimum of five years maritime/operations experience; two years supervisory experience required.
• Familiarity with shipyards, tugs, barges, and shore-side management essential.
• Proficiency in SAP and basic computer applications (Word, Excel, databases).

Benefits:

• The benefit program includes medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your family.
• This position will accrue 10 days of vacation a year. Accrued vacation will be vested and available for use after successfully completing six (6) months of service.
• Life insurance equal to two times annual base salary.
• Accidental death and dismemberment insurance. Long term disability insurance.
• 401k program with a 4% match, vested immediately.
• Employee Assistance Program.
• Flexible Spending Accounts.
• Business travel assistance program.
• Other voluntary benefits are available for purchase via payroll deduction at group rates.
• Nine (9) paid holidays with two (2) additional floating holidays available after six (6) months of service.
• Full time employees will accrue ninety-six (96) hours of sick leave per year, up to a maximum of 1,040 hours.
• Bereavement Leave - three (3) paid days off for a death in the immediate family, or five (5) days off if travel greater than 500 miles is required.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• All other benefits as required by law

Working Conditions:

• Work performed in varied environments: indoor/outdoor, noisy/quiet, hot/cold, wet/dry.
• Regular travel, including weekends and holidays, often on short notice.
• Must be able to lift at least 25 lbs., climb ladders, and work in confined spaces.

Drug Free Workplace
Foss Maritime Company LLC is a Drug Free Workplace where post offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies.

Equal Opportunity Employer
Foss Maritime Company LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.