Overview

Department: Engine

Employment Type: Contract

Location: Shipboard

Description

We are looking for an experienced CHIEF ENGINEER to join SAGA Cruises — vessel TBC. Embarkation will be at the end of October 2025. Contract and conditions will be advised upon interview.

Position Summary

1. Overall responsibility for the entire technical operations and equipment onboard, including engineering, electrical and mechanical divisions.
2. Ensures that all systems and equipment of every sub division of the technical department are operating correctly and maintained to the highest possible standards to support safe navigation, in accordance with Company policies and any National or International standards, and in compliance with Public Health or other prescribed regulations.
3. Ensures proper coordination with different technical parties and cooperation with all ship’s departments.

Reporting Structure

1. Reporting to the Captain and to Company Marine Technical Department.
2. Subordinates – Engine department.

Safety Duties

1. Participates in crew and passenger safety drills according to instructions.
2. Must comply with the Company’s safety and pollution prevention regulations and operating procedures.
3. Leads by example by taking care of the Health and Safety of self and others.
4. Ensures that all work equipment, PPE, chemicals and safety devices are used correctly and, where necessary, provides training, guidance and supervision on how to use and maintain them.

Education/Experience/Qualifications

1. Valid STCW95 certification.
2. Valid CoC A-III/2.
3. Appropriate certification as required by regulations.
4. Extensive experience as a Chief Engineer is essential.
5. Strong ability to detect and identify the cause of machinery faults.
6. Physically and medically fit.
7. Moral integrity is required.
8. Public Health, Sanitation and Environmental training courses.
9. Alaska experience is a plus.
10. Public Health, Coast Guard and Port State Control experience.

Language Requirements

Excellent fluent English (verbal, written and technical). English is the working and safety language on board. This includes the ability to give and receive instructions in verbal and written forms and to engage effectively with guests and crew. Additional languages are beneficial.

Computer Knowledge

Good knowledge of AMOS and Microsoft Office applications.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions

Required to stand, walk long distances, reach and sit. Repetitive bending, climbing stairs, and ladders. Lifting or pushing up to 50 lbs. Overtime work and irregular schedules. Works in the Engine Control Room and engine spaces with noise and challenging environments, as well as in an office.

Profile

1. Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to lead, motivate and develop a culturally diverse workforce.
2. Punctual and proactive with problem-solving abilities.
3. Flexible, well organized, self-motivated; able to handle multiple demands and remain effective under pressure.
4. Clear, concise communication; safe, professional practices; fully conversant with VMS and MLC requirements.
5. Well groomed and neat appearance; ability to deliver high standards of technical performance.

Key Responsibilities

1. Lead safe and effective operation and maintenance to the highest standards of all main, auxiliary and domestic machinery and technical equipment.
2. Overall responsibility for safe and efficient operation, repair and maintenance of listed systems and equipment (non-exhaustive):
   1. Main engines, diesel generators, propulsion machinery and related auxiliary equipment.
   2. Black and Grey Water collection and treatment system.
   3. Boilers and steam plant.
   4. Oily bilge water separator.
   5. Sea water cooling, fresh/technical water systems.
   6. Fuels and lubricating oil purifiers.
   7. Air compressors.
   8. Fresh water generators, evaporators and RO.
   9. Deck machinery.
   10. Garbage management and treatment system.
   11. LSA equipment including lifeboats, tenders, rescue boats, davits, cranes, winches.
   12. Chlorine, pH control dosing for potable water systems.
   13. RWF chlorine, pH control, filtering system.
   14. Emergency/DS generator maintenance and tests.
   15. Dead ship recovery generator (CLIA) maintenance and tests.
   16. Watertight and semi-watertight doors hydraulic systems.
   17. Fire screens, doors and pneumatic systems; firefighting water pipelines and valves.
   18. Incinerator and garbage equipment system.
   19. Swimming pool and Jacuzzi machinery.
   20. Hotel technical equipment, plumbing, etc.
   21. Air conditioning and mechanical ventilation of all spaces.
   22. Thrusters, stabilizers, steering and rudder machinery.
   23. Audible and visual signaling systems (whistles, bells, General Alarm).
3. Manage the electrical sub-department.
4. Ensure engine department personnel comply with safety and environmental protection procedures.
5. Implement and maintain the vessel’s planned maintenance systems, plant history and inventory systems.
6. Prepare and monitor the department budget with the Superintendent; coordinate watches per VMS and normal/exceptional operating conditions.
7. Maintain ISM compliance and adhere to all applicable regulations and SMS requirements.
8. Plan voyage needs (fuel, water, lubricants) and optimize fuel consumption.
9. Know vessel handling characteristics and safety features; be fully conversant with the Company’s VMS.
10. Assist the Safety Officer with engine room and technical space safety standards.
11. C develop succession planning by mentoring Staff Engineer to potentially assume Chief Engineer duties.
12. Prepare Chief Engineer’s Standing Orders for safe, efficient operation.
13. Familiarize with lifesaving, firefighting and pollution prevention equipment; monitor fixed and portable fire systems.
14. Ensure staff are trained and understand their duties; maintain engine room alarm systems, including CO2 alarms.
15. Enforce OH&S briefing and training for contractors; conduct monthly OHS self-inspection (SAF112) and PPE inventory oversight.
16. Participate in shipboard management, maintenance, and health and safety meetings as required.
17. Oversee fuel and ballast operations to prevent pollution; ensure proper disposal of sludge, bilge water, oily water and spent oils per regulations.
18. Maintain adequate stock of spare parts and consumables; ensure machinery certification is current.
19. Coordinate surveys with Classification Society and perform Continuous Survey items as authorized.
20. Maintain accurate records, manuals and technical drawings; ensure proper reporting for management and Classification Society.
21. Provide information and consultancy during inspections; collaborate with Hotel Department on maintenance planning to minimize operational impact.
22. Keep Master informed of significant problems; prepare for sea readiness before departures.
23. Attend arrival/departure manoeuvring; work with the stability officer; submit required reports to Marine Technical Department.
24. Coordinate daily with the Staff Engineer on progress and priorities; maintain engine log books and related records (Oil Record Book, Wastewaters, ODS, Oil to Sea, etc.).
25. Ensure all personnel hold correct certifications; liaise with HR on staffing, training and development.
26. Enforce a fair corrective action system and proper disciplinary procedures.
27. Control and approve department overtime and working hours; ensure compliance with ILO/MLC and ship policies; maintain documentation.
28. Ensure engine room operations comply with ISM, ISPS, SOLAS, Safe Working Practices, MARPOL, COLREG 72, GMDSS, STCW, Oil Record Book, ballast/waste handling, and other relevant regulations.
29. Maintain departmental standards and supervise performance and development; implement corrective actions as needed.
30. Foster a culture of openness and teamwork; uphold grooming standards and professional conduct.

Notes: Position status is Officer; Salary and rotation per contract.