What are the responsibilities and job description for the Research Vessel Taani Chief Engineer position at Oregon State University?
Position Details
Position Information
Department Marine Operations (RMO)
Position Title Specialist 2-Chief Engineer
Job Title Research Vessel Taani Chief Engineer
Appointment Type Professional Faculty
Job Location Newport
Benefits Eligible Full-Time, benefits eligible
Remote or Hybrid option?
Job Summary
Marine Operations is seeking a Chief Engineer. This is a full-time (1.00 FTE ), 12-month, professional faculty position. This position is located in Newport, Oregon.
Oregon State University ( OSU ) operates the R/V Taani, a 199-foot Regional Class Research Vessel ( RCRV ) homeported at in Newport, Oregon. R/V Taani is the first in a new class of advanced research vessels sponsored by the National Science Foundation ( NSF ) to support cutting-edge oceanographic research across the Pacific region.
The Chief Engineer is the direct supervisor for employees in the Research Vessel (R/V) Taani Engineering Department and is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the vessel’s machinery, as well as the mechanical and electrical systems under the overall direction of the Master. The Chief Engineer is a key position in the prevention of pollution at sea and safe management of ship operations.
The Chief Engineer oversees the Engineering Department, directs maintenance and repair activities, and ensures that all systems are operated in accordance with U.S. Coast Guard ( USCG ), American Bureau of Shipping ( ABS ), and UNOLS Research Vessel Safety Standards ( RVSS ).
The Chief Engineer ensures compliance with regulatory requirements, including International Safety Management ( ISM ) Safety Management System ( SMS ) and the International Convention of the Prevention of Pollution from Ships ( MARPOL ) procedures, maintains accurate engineering and maintenance records, and provides technical leadership to engineering personnel and contracted support. The position works collaboratively with the vessel’s officers, marine technicians, and embarked science parties to sustain safe, reliable, and efficient vessel operations in support of OSU’s research and education missions.
Why OSU?
Working for Oregon State University is so much more than a job!
Oregon State University is a dynamic community of dreamers, doers, problem-solvers and change-makers. We don’t wait for challenges to present themselves — we seek them out and take them on. We welcome students, faculty and staff from every background and perspective into a community where everyone feels seen and heard. We have deep-rooted mindfulness for the natural world and all who depend on it, and together, we apply knowledge, tools and skills to build a better future for all.
FACTS :
Oregon State has a statewide presence with campuses in Corvallis and Bend, the OSU Portland Center and the Hatfield Marine Science Center on the Pacific Coast in Newport.
Oregon State’s beautiful, historic and state-of-the-art main campus is located in one of America’s best college towns. Corvallis is located close to the Pacific Ocean, the Cascade mountains and Oregon wine country. Nestled in the heart of the Willamette Valley, this beautiful city offers miles of mountain biking and hiking trails, a river perfect for boating or kayaking and an eclectic downtown featuring local cuisine, popular events and performances.
Total Rewards Package:
Oregon State University offers a comprehensive benefits package with benefits eligible positions that is designed to meet the needs of employees and their families including:
2025 Best Place for Working Parents® Designation!
Future and current OSU employees can use the Benefits Calculator to learn more about the full value of the benefits provided at OSU .
Key Responsibilities
60% – Engineering Watch and Plant Operations
Oversees overall operation of engine department on a watch, daywork, and on call basis. Stands watch as the roving engineer at sea and serves as the daily duty engineer in ports other than Newport on a rotating basis with other engineering officers. Assumes responsibility for the safe operation and maintenance of the engineering plant, including continual checks of pressures, temperatures, fuel consumption, fluid levels, and the condition of operating machinery to ensure economical, and efficient performance. Updates computerized maintenance software, oily record book, and other logs and records as needed.
20% – Engineering Department Coordination and Technical Supervision
Organizes and directs engineering-department personnel while assigned, providing direction on maintenance priorities, safe work practices, and repair procedures to ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and OSU Marine Operations policies. Operates, maintains, and repairs ship machinery; electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, fuel, and ballast systems; and freshwater and saltwater firefighting systems.
10% – Fuel, Stores, and Documentation
Maintains adequate supplies of fuel, lube oil, freshwater, repair parts, and maintenance materials on board during relief periods. Reports fuel, lube-oil, and freshwater usage and remaining levels to the Master. In consultation with the master, verifying all loading conditions maintain adequate ships stability. Keeps engineering daily work logs and Oily Record Book and provides reports as required, maintaining compliance with the vessel’s Safety Management System ( SMS ). Maintain and ensure compliance with the vessel’s Shipboard Oil Pollution Emergency Plan.
10% – Scheduling and Maintenance Activities
Schedules engineering watches and assigns daily duties to engineers in consultation with the Master. Repairs or replaces broken parts using hand tools, precision tools, arc and gas welders, and lathes. Assists in the repair of scientific equipment as requested and within department capability. Directs or performs maintenance of firefighting equipment. Serves as a member of the fire-response team, administering First Aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation ( CPR ) when required. Performs other duties as assigned.
Fleet Assignment Clause
As qualified and assigned, may temporarily provide support other vessels within OSU Marine Operations (e.g., Small Boats Program, midsize/new-build vessels, West Coast Van Pool) to maintain safe crewing and operational continuity across the fleet.
What You Will Need
What We Would Like You To Have
This position is required to work aboard R/V Taani on research cruises that may range from one day to three weeks or longer in duration before returning to port. Typical rotations can last 2-3 months and may on occasion run longer as operational needs require. The Chief Engineer is expected to be involved with maintenance periods in shipyards and dry docks. The Chief Engineer is obligated to work aboard R/V Taani – wherever it is located – at least 8 months per year.
Ocean and weather conditions are highly variable, and the incumbent must not be incapacitated by seasickness.
Work is performed in machinery spaces and other areas that involve noise, vibration, heat, and exposure to electrical, mechanical, and hydraulic systems. The ability to lift, carry, push, and pull objects weighing up to 40 pounds is required.
The ability to lift, carry, push, and pull objects weighing up to 40 pounds is required.
Ship Operations is a seven day per week operation; therefore, weekend and holiday work may be required. Shift and/or work assignment may change based on operational needs.
Pay Method Hourly
Pay Period 16th - 15th of the following month
Pay Date Last working day of the month
Recommended Full-Time Salary Range $99,500 - $128,000
Link To Position Description
https://jobs.oregonstate.edu/position_descriptions/18623
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number P09792UF
Number of Vacancies 1
Anticipated Appointment Begin Date 06/01/2026
Anticipated Appointment End Date
Posting Date 03/17/2026
Full Consideration Date
Closing Date 04/07/2026
Indicate how you intend to recruit for this search Competitive / External - open to ALL qualified applicants
Special Instructions to Applicants
When applying you will be required to attach the following electronic documents:
For additional information please contact: Matt Fogg at Mathurin.Fogg@oregonstate.edu or 541-867-0168.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability, protected veteran, and other protected status.
OSU will conduct a review of the National Sex Offender Public website prior to hire.
Starting salary within the salary range will be commensurate with skills, education, and experience.
OSU is a fair chance employer committed to inclusive hiring. We encourage applications from candidates who bring a wide range of lived experience including involvement with the justice system. This job has “critical or security-sensitive” responsibilities. If you are selected as a finalist, your initial job offer will be contingent upon the results of a job-related pre-employment check (such as a background check, motor vehicle history check, sexual misconduct reference check, etc.). Background check results do not automatically disqualify a candidate. Take a look at our Background Checks website including the for candidates section for more details. If you have questions or concerns about the pre-employment check, please contact OSU’s Employee and Labor Relations team at employee.relations@oregonstate.edu .
Any required license and/or certification may be uploaded as License or Certification 1 (or 2, 3, 4 as needed). The online application system will allow you to attach your license/certification if the PDF file is 9MB or less. If over 9MB in size, submit to contact person listed. The license and/or certification must be received by the closing date if not uploaded with your application.
Position Information
Department Marine Operations (RMO)
Position Title Specialist 2-Chief Engineer
Job Title Research Vessel Taani Chief Engineer
Appointment Type Professional Faculty
Job Location Newport
Benefits Eligible Full-Time, benefits eligible
Remote or Hybrid option?
Job Summary
Marine Operations is seeking a Chief Engineer. This is a full-time (1.00 FTE ), 12-month, professional faculty position. This position is located in Newport, Oregon.
Oregon State University ( OSU ) operates the R/V Taani, a 199-foot Regional Class Research Vessel ( RCRV ) homeported at in Newport, Oregon. R/V Taani is the first in a new class of advanced research vessels sponsored by the National Science Foundation ( NSF ) to support cutting-edge oceanographic research across the Pacific region.
The Chief Engineer is the direct supervisor for employees in the Research Vessel (R/V) Taani Engineering Department and is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the vessel’s machinery, as well as the mechanical and electrical systems under the overall direction of the Master. The Chief Engineer is a key position in the prevention of pollution at sea and safe management of ship operations.
The Chief Engineer oversees the Engineering Department, directs maintenance and repair activities, and ensures that all systems are operated in accordance with U.S. Coast Guard ( USCG ), American Bureau of Shipping ( ABS ), and UNOLS Research Vessel Safety Standards ( RVSS ).
The Chief Engineer ensures compliance with regulatory requirements, including International Safety Management ( ISM ) Safety Management System ( SMS ) and the International Convention of the Prevention of Pollution from Ships ( MARPOL ) procedures, maintains accurate engineering and maintenance records, and provides technical leadership to engineering personnel and contracted support. The position works collaboratively with the vessel’s officers, marine technicians, and embarked science parties to sustain safe, reliable, and efficient vessel operations in support of OSU’s research and education missions.
Why OSU?
Working for Oregon State University is so much more than a job!
Oregon State University is a dynamic community of dreamers, doers, problem-solvers and change-makers. We don’t wait for challenges to present themselves — we seek them out and take them on. We welcome students, faculty and staff from every background and perspective into a community where everyone feels seen and heard. We have deep-rooted mindfulness for the natural world and all who depend on it, and together, we apply knowledge, tools and skills to build a better future for all.
FACTS :
- Top 1.4% university in the world
- More research funding than all public universities in Oregon combined
- 1 of 3 land, sea, space and sun grant universities in the U.S.
- 2 campuses, 11 colleges, 12 experiment stations, and Extension programs in all 36 counties
- 7 cultural resource centers that offer education, celebration and belonging for everyone
- 100 undergraduate degree programs, 80 graduate degrees plus hundreds of minor options and certificates
- 35k students including more than 2.3k international students and 10k students of color
- 217k alumni worldwide
- For more interesting facts about OSU visit: https://oregonstate.edu/about
Oregon State has a statewide presence with campuses in Corvallis and Bend, the OSU Portland Center and the Hatfield Marine Science Center on the Pacific Coast in Newport.
Oregon State’s beautiful, historic and state-of-the-art main campus is located in one of America’s best college towns. Corvallis is located close to the Pacific Ocean, the Cascade mountains and Oregon wine country. Nestled in the heart of the Willamette Valley, this beautiful city offers miles of mountain biking and hiking trails, a river perfect for boating or kayaking and an eclectic downtown featuring local cuisine, popular events and performances.
Total Rewards Package:
Oregon State University offers a comprehensive benefits package with benefits eligible positions that is designed to meet the needs of employees and their families including:
- Medical, Dental, Vision and Basic Life. OSU pays 95% of premiums for you and your eligible dependents.
- Free confidential mental health and emotional support services, and counseling resources.
- Retirement savings paid by the university.
- A generous paid leave package, including holidays, vacation and sick leave.
- Tuition reduction benefits for you or your qualifying dependents at OSU or the additional six Oregon Public Universities.
- Robust Work Life programs including Dual Career assistance resources, flexible work arrangements, a Family Resource Center, Affinity Groups and an Employee Assistance Program.
- Optional lifestyle benefits such as pet, accident, and critical illness insurance, giving you peace of mind and the support you need to thrive in all aspects of your life.
2025 Best Place for Working Parents® Designation!
Future and current OSU employees can use the Benefits Calculator to learn more about the full value of the benefits provided at OSU .
Key Responsibilities
60% – Engineering Watch and Plant Operations
Oversees overall operation of engine department on a watch, daywork, and on call basis. Stands watch as the roving engineer at sea and serves as the daily duty engineer in ports other than Newport on a rotating basis with other engineering officers. Assumes responsibility for the safe operation and maintenance of the engineering plant, including continual checks of pressures, temperatures, fuel consumption, fluid levels, and the condition of operating machinery to ensure economical, and efficient performance. Updates computerized maintenance software, oily record book, and other logs and records as needed.
20% – Engineering Department Coordination and Technical Supervision
Organizes and directs engineering-department personnel while assigned, providing direction on maintenance priorities, safe work practices, and repair procedures to ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and OSU Marine Operations policies. Operates, maintains, and repairs ship machinery; electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, fuel, and ballast systems; and freshwater and saltwater firefighting systems.
10% – Fuel, Stores, and Documentation
Maintains adequate supplies of fuel, lube oil, freshwater, repair parts, and maintenance materials on board during relief periods. Reports fuel, lube-oil, and freshwater usage and remaining levels to the Master. In consultation with the master, verifying all loading conditions maintain adequate ships stability. Keeps engineering daily work logs and Oily Record Book and provides reports as required, maintaining compliance with the vessel’s Safety Management System ( SMS ). Maintain and ensure compliance with the vessel’s Shipboard Oil Pollution Emergency Plan.
10% – Scheduling and Maintenance Activities
Schedules engineering watches and assigns daily duties to engineers in consultation with the Master. Repairs or replaces broken parts using hand tools, precision tools, arc and gas welders, and lathes. Assists in the repair of scientific equipment as requested and within department capability. Directs or performs maintenance of firefighting equipment. Serves as a member of the fire-response team, administering First Aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation ( CPR ) when required. Performs other duties as assigned.
Fleet Assignment Clause
As qualified and assigned, may temporarily provide support other vessels within OSU Marine Operations (e.g., Small Boats Program, midsize/new-build vessels, West Coast Van Pool) to maintain safe crewing and operational continuity across the fleet.
What You Will Need
- Valid Merchant Mariner Credentials ( MMC ) with the following rating: Chief Engineer Limited Oceans issued by the United States Coast Guard ( USCG ).
- Current Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping ( STCW ) endorsements as appropriate for this position.
- Transportation Worker Identification Credential ( TWIC ).
- Ability to obtain a passport.
- Ability to speak, read, and write English.
- Meet Coast Guard drug testing requirements.
- Solid understanding of basic computer programs including Microsoft Office products.
- Minimum of one (1) year experience with Computerized Maintenance Management Systems ( CMMS ) programs.
What We Would Like You To Have
- Merchant Mariner Credentials ( MMC ) with the following rating: Chief Engineer Unlimited HP issued by the USCG .
- Any USCG ETO / ETR /electrician MMC rating
- Two years’ experience as Chief Engineer of a comparable size vessel, or equivalent military service.
- Bachelor’s degree in a relevant engineering or technical discipline
- Prior experience working on research vessels in the US Academic Research Fleet or elsewhere.
- 2 years of experience working with a safety management system as described in the International Safety Management ( ISM ) code.
- STCW Advanced Stability
- At least one year of supervisory experience.
- Vessel Security Officer Certificate.
- Fast Rescue Boat Certificate.
- Kongsberg’s K-Pos dynamic positioning (DP) system Maintenance Training.
- Demonstrated ability to work productively and cooperatively in teams, and to contribute to an inclusive team culture where all individuals feel valued and respected.
This position is required to work aboard R/V Taani on research cruises that may range from one day to three weeks or longer in duration before returning to port. Typical rotations can last 2-3 months and may on occasion run longer as operational needs require. The Chief Engineer is expected to be involved with maintenance periods in shipyards and dry docks. The Chief Engineer is obligated to work aboard R/V Taani – wherever it is located – at least 8 months per year.
Ocean and weather conditions are highly variable, and the incumbent must not be incapacitated by seasickness.
Work is performed in machinery spaces and other areas that involve noise, vibration, heat, and exposure to electrical, mechanical, and hydraulic systems. The ability to lift, carry, push, and pull objects weighing up to 40 pounds is required.
The ability to lift, carry, push, and pull objects weighing up to 40 pounds is required.
Ship Operations is a seven day per week operation; therefore, weekend and holiday work may be required. Shift and/or work assignment may change based on operational needs.
Pay Method Hourly
Pay Period 16th - 15th of the following month
Pay Date Last working day of the month
Recommended Full-Time Salary Range $99,500 - $128,000
Link To Position Description
https://jobs.oregonstate.edu/position_descriptions/18623
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number P09792UF
Number of Vacancies 1
Anticipated Appointment Begin Date 06/01/2026
Anticipated Appointment End Date
Posting Date 03/17/2026
Full Consideration Date
Closing Date 04/07/2026
Indicate how you intend to recruit for this search Competitive / External - open to ALL qualified applicants
Special Instructions to Applicants
When applying you will be required to attach the following electronic documents:
- A resume/CV; and
- A cover letter indicating how your qualifications and experience have prepared you for this position.
- License or Certification: Upload your current USCG Merchant Mariner Credentials, including all pages that show ratings & certifications.
For additional information please contact: Matt Fogg at Mathurin.Fogg@oregonstate.edu or 541-867-0168.
We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability, protected veteran, and other protected status.
OSU will conduct a review of the National Sex Offender Public website prior to hire.
Starting salary within the salary range will be commensurate with skills, education, and experience.
OSU is a fair chance employer committed to inclusive hiring. We encourage applications from candidates who bring a wide range of lived experience including involvement with the justice system. This job has “critical or security-sensitive” responsibilities. If you are selected as a finalist, your initial job offer will be contingent upon the results of a job-related pre-employment check (such as a background check, motor vehicle history check, sexual misconduct reference check, etc.). Background check results do not automatically disqualify a candidate. Take a look at our Background Checks website including the for candidates section for more details. If you have questions or concerns about the pre-employment check, please contact OSU’s Employee and Labor Relations team at employee.relations@oregonstate.edu .
Any required license and/or certification may be uploaded as License or Certification 1 (or 2, 3, 4 as needed). The online application system will allow you to attach your license/certification if the PDF file is 9MB or less. If over 9MB in size, submit to contact person listed. The license and/or certification must be received by the closing date if not uploaded with your application.
Salary : $99,500 - $128,000