Job Summary:
The Assistant Engineer is responsible for assisting in the operation, maintenance, and repair of all mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic systems aboard U.S.-flagged Articulated Tug and Barge (ATB) units operating on the Great Lakes. The position involves ensuring the safe, efficient, and continuous operation of the vessel's engine room and associated systems during voyages on the Great Lakes.
Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) Code – 53-5031 (Ship engineers)
Direct Supervisor – Chief Engineer
Primary Responsibilities:
The responsibilities of the Assistant Engineer include, but are not limited to:
- Stand engine room watch, providing safe and efficient operations
- Assist the Chief Engineer in maintaining and operating propulsion systems, generators, pumps, compressors, HVAC, and other mechanical/electrical/hydraulic systems aboard the tug and barge
- Perform preventative and corrective maintenance on all tug/barge main, auxiliary and emergency machinery and systems
- Maintain accurate engineering logbooks, maintenance records, and inventory of spare parts and consumables
- Respond to mechanical emergencies, diagnosing and resolving issues to minimize downtime
- Perform bunkering operations, including receiving fuel, soundings, and proper documentation, under the direction of the Chief Engineer
- Ensuring compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and company policy
- Participate in drills and emergency response procedures (fire, abandon ship, oil spill, etc.)
- Assist in maintaining cleanliness and organization of the engine room and workspaces
- Ensure familiarity and compliance with the Company Safety Management System (SMS)
- Monitor and ensure the safety of work conducted by any third party / subcontractor
- Respond in accordance with the duties listed on the Station Bill
Credential, License / Endorsement, Certificate, and Other Requirements:
- Valid U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC)
- Minimum U.S. Coast Guard license as Assistant Engineer (Limited)
- Endorsement of U.S. Coast Guard Lifeboatman / PSC (or approved course certificate)
- Valid U.S. Coast Guard Medical Certificate
- Valid U.S. DOT Transportation Workers Identification Credential (TWIC)
- Must be legally authorized to work in the United States as a U.S. citizen or national, or an alien admitted as a permanent resident, refugee or asylee
- Must be able to legally enter Canada
- Must be able to give/receive written and oral orders in English
Working Conditions:
- Work performed in a maritime environment with exposure to cold, heat, rain, snow, and ice depending on season.
- Rotational, live-a-board schedule (e.g., 28/14 or 28/28), with extended periods away from home, sailing remotely on a vessel away from shore.
- Physically demanding; must be able to perform all tasks listed under Section VIII of the U.S. Coast Guard ‘Application for Medical Certificate’ (Form CG-719K)
- Participation in pre-employment and random drug and alcohol screening as required by DOT / U.S. Coast Guard.
