JOB SUMMARY

The Newbuilding Project Engineer is responsible for technical oversight, coordination, and execution of vessel construction projects from contract design through delivery. This role acts as the owner’s technical representative at the shipyard, ensuring the vessel is built according to contractual specifications, classification society requirements, regulatory standards, and operational needs.

The Project Engineer works closely with shipyards, naval architects, equipment vendors, classification societies, and internal stakeholders to manage engineering approvals, monitor construction progress, resolve technical issues, and support testing and delivery of vessels.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

Manage the technical aspects of new vessel construction projects from contract signing through delivery and warranty period.

Review and approve shipyard engineering drawings, calculations, and technical submittals.

Ensure vessel design and construction comply with class rules, flag state regulations, and company specifications.

Coordinate engineering interfaces between shipyard designers, vendors, and owner technical teams.

Track engineering deliverables against the newbuild schedule and milestones.

TECHNICAL SKILLS

Marine engineering systems

Ship construction processes

Shipyard production methods

Technical drawing interpretation

DESIGN REVIEW & TECHNICAL COORDINATION

Conduct detailed reviews of general arrangement plans, structural drawings, machinery layouts, electrical systems, piping, HVAC systems, and accommodation layouts.

Ensure equipment selections meet operational requirements.

Provide technical input during design development and change management.

Evaluate and approve vendor equipment packages.

SHIPYARD CONSTRUCTION OVERSIGHT

Monitor shipyard construction progress and verify compliance with specifications.

Coordinate with the shipyard on technical clarifications and engineering changes.

Attend and participate in production meetings, engineering review meetings, and design approval meetings.

Ensure quality standards are maintained throughout construction.

TESTING & COMMISSIONING

Support planning and execution of Factory Acceptance Tests (FAT), Harbor Acceptance Tests (HAT), and Sea Trials.

Verify installed equipment meets performance specifications.

Document and track deficiencies during testing.

REGULATORY & CLASSIFICATION COMPLIANCE

Ensure vessel compliance with applicable standards, including MARPOL, classification society rules, and flag state requirements.

VENDOR & EQUIPMENT MANAGEMENT

Coordinate technical communication with equipment suppliers.

Review vendor documentation, including technical specifications, installation drawings, and operation manuals.

Ensure vendor equipment is delivered according to the project schedule.

Assist with equipment troubleshooting during installation and commissioning.

DOCUMENTATION & REPORTING

Maintain project engineering documentation and approval records.

Prepare regular reports including engineering status updates, technical risk assessments, design change logs, and construction progress reports.

Track open technical issues and ensure resolution.

BUDGET & CHANGE MANAGEMENT

Review engineering changes for technical and cost impacts.

Support evaluation of shipyard variation orders.

Assist the project management team in controlling technical cost growth

DELIVERY & HANDOVER

Participate in final inspections prior to delivery.

Verify completion of all punch list items.

Ensure documentation packages are complete, including as-built drawings, equipment manuals, and spare parts lists.

Support vessel handover to fleet operations team.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

New graduate or minimum 4 years of marine vessel operation experience, such as maintenance, drydocking, major repair project management, and new construction

Class surveyor experience is a plus.

A high school diploma or GED is required; an advanced degree in marine engineering, naval architecture, or equivalent is preferred; extensive experience may be considered in lieu of education

Familiarity with propulsion systems, marine electrical systems, HVAC, piping, deck machinery, and automation systems

Attention to detail and problem-solving skills; sometimes complex

Excellent interpersonal skills

Requires proficiency with computer hardware and software, including the Microsoft Office suite of applications and AutoCAD software

LICENSURE & CERTIFICATIONS

A Merchant Mariner Credential, such as an officer endorsement as a chief engineer, is preferred

A valid Passport (Required)

An active and valid Texas driver's license (Required)

Transportation Worker’s Identification Credential(Required)

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITIES

Ability to always communicate effectively and professionally

Ability to conduct a physical inspection of vessels involving tight spaces and heights in active industrial working environments

Ability to express excellent professional interpersonal skills when communicating with employees, shipyard personnel, vendors, and customers

Ability to maintain confidentiality in all matters and areas of the organization

Ability to manage multiple demands simultaneously while maintaining service standards

Ability to plan and organize work in a dynamic environment

Ability to prepare comprehensive, coherent written technical reports

Ability to promote, contribute to, and accept responsibility for a safe working environment

Ability to remain calm and project a positive demeanor during times of stress

Ability to understand and execute complex oral and written instructions

Ability to work independently with minimal or no guidance

Able to act with a minimum of planning and guidance

Able to establish and maintain effective relationships with personnel and stakeholders to gain their trust and respect

Anticipates business issues to align operational priorities

Consistently delivering visible and transparent practices as related to G&H Towing policies and the ability to communicate how decisions are made based on G&H Towing values

Design and construction of marine vessels from concept through final construction

Establishes short and mid-term work plans and optimizes resources to ensure that work area objectives (e.g., aligned with productivity, quality, and costs) are consistently met

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Interpersonal skills include self-awareness and the ability to deal professionally with others and always make professional judgments

Must be a team player and support the mission, vision, and goals of G&H Towing and the department

Must be service-oriented and customer-centric to all internal and external customers

Naval architecture, marine engineering, mechanical engineering, system safety and reliability, and shipyard safety requirements.

Proven ability to troubleshoot, test resolutions, and escalate common issues

Proven analytical and problem-solving skills

Robust understanding of the U.S. Coast Guard regulations and ABS rules applicable to steel vessel construction and repair

Strong background in operations, construction, maintenance, and repair

Strong communication, organizational, analytical, time management, problem-solving, and planning skills

WORKING CONDITIONS

Out-of-region, state, and country travel may be required.

The position will require extended out-of-town travel based on the location of the new construction site (shipyard location)

Work hours will be assigned based on business needs; however, work hours will typically be Monday-Friday from 7:30 am to 4:00 pm or adjusted to suit the project that has been assigned, as shipyard schedules vary.

Work hours may include irregular hours to assist in completing special tasks or assignments,s including out-of-town travel

Work will be performed in the office and the field

SPECIAL PROJECTS

Assist the management and or executive team when requested to complete special projects and complete all assignments within a negotiated time frame established by the department manager

Completion of other duties as assigned by the department manager, as related to the program and position

ESSENTIAL JOB-RELATED PHYSICAL & MENTAL REQUIREMENTS

Physical:

Ability to ascend and descend stairs

Ability to board vessels safely

Ability to bend, twist, kneel, stoop, and or reach for items

Ability to detect and write effectively

Ability to handle objects

Ability to hear with or without aid

Ability to move around within an office setting and or other locations as needed

Ability to operate office equipment

Ability to push, pull, and or squat

Ability to remain in a stationary position for long periods

Ability to transport, adjust, and or move items up to 50 lbs.

Ability to work in small, confined areas, such as but not limited to tanks and bilges

Ability to have visual acuity to operate a motor vehicle and observe objects within the work setting

Mental:

Ability to accept constructive criticism

Ability to anticipate needs

Ability to cultivate a positive working environment

Ability to express oneself clearly and effectively, orally and in writing, and use ethical and professional judgment

Ability to deal professionally, ethically, and effectively with customers, co-workers, vendors, and the public, including providing professional, prompt, responsive, efficient, and courteous customer service and assistance

Ability to maintain regular attendance

Ability to meet deadlines

Ability to be professional and use professional judgment 100% of the time

Ability to multitask and plan time efficiently 100% of the time

Ability to perform job description and duties with minor supervision

Ability to reason and analyze effectively

Ability to solve practical problems as they relate to the position

Ability to understand, communicate, and comprehend information in English

Ability to work professionally with others 100% of the time

Required to pass and maintain all mandatory training

Requires the ability to work collaboratively in a team setting

Requires the ability to treat everyone professionally with courtesy, decency, and respect worksite environmental conditions

Ability to work alone

Ability to work closely with others

Ability to work closely with customers who may have hygiene challenges

Ability to work long and or irregular hours

May be subjected to a hostile environment

Potential exposure to tobacco products

May be exposed to excessive noises

May be subjected to both inside and outside environmental conditions, which include variations in temperature, dampness, humidity, heat, and cold

May be subjected to exposure to fumes, dust, gases, welding arc, and or chemicals

May be subjected to water and or liquids

Travel by motor vehicle, van, bus, marine vessel, or plane

We are an equal opportunity employer and prohibit unlawful discrimination per federal, state, and local laws. We value diversity and are committed to being an inclusive environment for all candidates and employees representing a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. All employment is based on qualifications. Qualified individuals must be able to perform all the functions listed in the job description with or without reasonable accommodation, as based on ADA requirements.