Chief Engineer

License Requirements:
US Coast Guard Merchant Mariners Card with a Qualified Member of the Engine Dept (QMED) endorsement ideal but not required.
Preferred Qualifications/Skills:
• Practical knowledge of the mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems and components of marine machinery. Must be skilled in the operation, maintenance, repair and assist with the overhaul of marine diesel engines, particularly Cummins KT19M propulsion diesel engines and Caterpillar C4.4 (58kW) marine generators, electrical generating equipment, potable water systems, high and low pressure servo/electric hydraulic systems, hot water heating systems, HVAC systems and deck machinery equipment.
• Should be skilled in the use of standard machine shop tools, including welding.
• Previous experience aboard research vessels and the Great Lakes preferred.
• Ideally, certified in basic/advanced marine firefighting and hazardous oil spill response (HAZMAT operations level certification).
• Must be skilled in the use of life saving equipment, such as deployment and maintenance of life rafts and rescue boat.
• Must be capable of instructing anyone aboard the research vessel in safe work practices.
• Basic computer skills are necessary for email communication, maintaining logs and completing administrative duties such as time cards and expense reports.
• Fluency in English, both verbally and in writing/reading is required.
Work Environment:
• Sampling activities may take place on any of the Great Lakes and shift work will be necessary during transit periods. Six hours on, six off when running 24 hours.
• Typical underway day for science work is 12 hours.
• The weather conditions on the Great Lakes are extremely variable. Must be willing to work on a rolling deck requiring strength and agility. Work is sometimes required both day and night.
• Incumbent must be in sound physical and mental condition at all times. Must occasionally carry objects weighing up to 50 pounds. Requires vigorous and highly physical work; individuals who want to join our team need to be ready to handle long hours and challenging work under tough conditions.
Work Culture:
• You will be getting the opportunity to support the USEPA’s mission and work alongside some of our nation’s top scientists and boat crew.
• Successful performance of duties depends on close cooperation and a good work relationship between vessel crew and scientific staff.
• The ship will be staffed with 4 crew total, plus scientists during trips. You will be joining a top-notch crew led by the EPA Captain, along with SPS First Mate, SPS Chief Engineer (you), and SPS Marine Support Technician.
• The vessel’s home port and dock are in Superior, WI.
Pay Type:
• This is an hourly position (rate/hour DOE) with 1.5x hourly rate for overtime (in excess of 40 hours per week).
• Typical work schedule will be 8 hour days (M-F) and 40 hours per week (no overtime) when at dock in Duluth, MN. 12 hour days when on sampling trips, with OT for over 40.
• Meal per diem (55% of typical gov’t meal per diem rate) provided when on sampling trips, but not when at port in Superior.
• Berth on ship may be available while in port in Superior, negotiable.
Special Requirements/Certifications:
Must pass corporate and federal background checks, federal background checks take 8 weeks. Must have valid driver’s license.