What are the responsibilities and job description for the Port Engineer - Seattle, WA position at The Boat Company?
Port Engineer (Contract Position)
Location:Seattle, WA
Company:The Boat Company
** Contract position with potential for contract extension or permanent hire based on performance and need. As a temp position, the position is not eligible for relocation compensation or benefits. **
About The Boat Company
The Boat Company is a mission-driven luxury eco-tourism operator and the only nonprofit cruise line in Alaska. For over four decades, our vesselsMV LiseronandMV Mist Covehave carried guests deep into the Inside Passage for world-class fishing, kayaking, and wilderness exploration - while also supporting conservation and sustainable management of Southeast Alaskas forests and fisheries. We are a second-generation, family-run business rooted in stewardship and adventure.
Role Overview
We are seeking an experiencedPort Engineerto oversee the maintenance, repair, and compliance readiness of our two classic wooden-hulled vessels. This is a contract rolewith primary responsibilities during the Seattle off-season (September - May), when both boats undergo shipyard periods, winter work, and regulatory inspections. The Port Engineer will serve as the primary technical lead on all shoreside engineering matters, coordinating closely with vessel Captains, Chief Engineers, and management to ensure our fleet is safe, reliable, and compliant before returning to Alaska each summer.
Key Responsibilities
- Maintenance & Repairs
- Oversee planned maintenance program (PMP) for both vessels.
- Direct repair projects on main engines, auxiliaries, electrical systems, HVAC, plumbing, and safety systems.
- Develop and track work orders, ensuring timely and cost-effective execution.
- Shipyard & Projects
- Plan and manage annual shipyard periods, dry-docks, and major refits.
- Write and review technical specifications for contractors and vendors.
- Supervise shipyard work to ensure quality, safety, and budget adherence.
- Regulatory Compliance
- Coordinate with USCG, ABS, and other regulatory bodies during inspections and dry dockings.
- Maintain up-to-date documentation within the Safety Management System (SMS).
- Track and resolve non-conformities and deficiency reports.
- Budgeting & Procurement
- Assist management with annual technical budgets and project cost forecasting.
- Source parts, manage spares inventory, and oversee vendor relationships.
- Evaluate bids and manage contractor performance.
- Crew & Communication
- Serve as a technical resource to Captains and Chief Engineers during the off-season.
- Contribute to recruiting, onboarding, and training of engineering staff.
- Hold weekly check-ins with onboard engineers to monitor progress.
Qualifications
- Chief Engineer license or equivalent senior shipboard engineering experience strongly preferred.
- Proven record managing vessel maintenance programs, dry-docks, and compliance for passenger vessels.
- Strong knowledge of USCG Subchapter T/K/H regulations, SOLAS, and SMS processes.
- Excellent project management and vendor oversight skills.
- Familiarity with heritage/wooden vessels a plus.
- Based in or able to reliably work fromSeattleduring contract period.
Compensation
- Competitive, commensurate with experience and scope.