Marine Machinery Mechanic Supervisor

WE NEED SOMEONE SPECIAL!! Looking to lead a skilled team of mechanics who work hard, support one another, and take pride in keeping America’s inland waterways moving? Want to work alongside an AMAZING team of fellow supervisors who truly care about your success? If you said YES, then you’ve just found your new home! National Maintenance & Repair in Hartford, Illinois is seeking an experienced Engine Shop Supervisor for our shipyard located along the historic Mississippi River. If you’re a hands-on leader with strong technical knowledge, and you enjoy developing talent while delivering high-quality repairs, this is your opportunity to join a company that’s been going strong for over 100 years.

As Engine Shop Supervisor, you will directly lead a team of apprentice and journeyman mechanics, ensuring safe, efficient, and high-standard repair work on towboats, barges, diesel engines, and related heavy equipment. You’ll play a key role in mentoring the next generation of mechanics while maintaining the operational excellence our customers depend on. We offer competitive pay, a robust benefits package, steady year-round work, and the satisfaction of leading a team that truly cares about doing things right.

Job Title: Engine Shop Supervisor
Location: Hartford, Illinois (401 S. Hawthorne Street, Hartford, IL 62048)
Department: Maintenance & Repair – Engine Shop
Reports To: General Manager
Employment Type: Full-Time

Job Summary
The Engine Shop Supervisor is a working leadership position responsible for overseeing daily operations in the engine shop. This role combines technical expertise with strong people leadership to supervise apprentice mechanics and experienced journeyman mechanics. The supervisor ensures all engine, propulsion, and mechanical repairs on marine vessels and related equipment are completed safely, efficiently, and to the highest quality standards. This position is critical for developing team skills, maintaining compliance with regulatory requirements, and supporting the overall productivity of shipyard and rail repair operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Directly supervise, mentor, and evaluate a team of apprentice mechanics and regular (journeyman) mechanics in the engine shop.
• Assign work orders, monitor progress, and ensure timely completion of repairs on marine and rail EMD diesel engines.
• Perform hands-on technical work and troubleshooting as needed while maintaining oversight of the team’s output and quality.
• Provide on-the-job training and coaching to apprentices and less experienced mechanics; support their skill development and career progression.
• Conduct regular safety meetings, and enforce all company safety policies.
• Oversee shop organization, tool and equipment maintenance, and proper inventory control of parts and supplies.
• Inspect completed work to verify adherence to specifications, manufacturer guidelines, and quality standards.
• Collaborate with other supervisors and departments on drydock operations, scheduling, and major repair projects.
• Document work performed, maintain accurate repair records, and communicate status updates to management.
• Address performance and behavioral issues promptly and professionally; contribute to performance reviews and hiring decisions.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support overall shipyard and rail repair operations.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Minimum 3 years of heavy diesel, marine, or industrial mechanical experience (with at least 1 year in a lead or supervisory role preferred).
• Strong technical knowledge of diesel engines, marine propulsion systems, hydraulics, and related heavy equipment preferred.
• Previous experience training or mentoring apprentices/journeyman mechanics is highly desired.
• High school diploma or GED required.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation.
• Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug screen, physical, and background check. We are a Second Chance employer and a Drug Free Workplace.
• Willingness to work flexible hours and be on-call, including overtime hours and weekends.

Skills and Competencies

• Proven leadership and team-building skills with the ability to motivate and develop mechanics at all experience levels.
• Excellent troubleshooting and diagnostic abilities in a fast-paced shipyard setting.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and conflict-resolution skills.
• Solid understanding of safety regulations and commitment to maintaining a safe work environment.
• Effective time management and organizational skills.
• Physical stamina to lift 50 lbs, stand for extended periods, and work in varying weather and shop conditions.
• Positive, supportive leadership style that aligns with our “treat you like family” culture

What We Offer

• Competitive pay based on experience and skills. Comprehensive benefits package (health, dental, vision, retirement, etc.).
• Stable, year-round work with a respected company in the marine industry.
• Team-oriented culture focused on safety and quality.

If you are eager to work with your hands, and contribute to keeping America’s inland waterways operational, we want to hear from you!

Compensation: $75,000.00 Annual Salary

Questions? Please contact us:
National Maintenance & Repair
401 S. Hawthorne Street, P.O. Box 38
Hartford, IL 62048
Phone: (618) 254-7451

National Maintenance & Repair is a proud equal opportunity and second chance employer. We evaluate all applicants and employees based on merit, qualifications, and job-related criteria. We welcome applications from anyone who meets the requirements of the role and are committed to providing a fair, inclusive hiring process free from unlawful discrimination.

Pay: $75,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Experience:

• mechanical: 3 years (Required)
• supervisory: 1 year (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $75,000