Chief Engineer

We are seeking a highly competent and motivated Chief Engineer to join the crew of our newbuild vessels. Operating from Penzance on a time-for-time rotation, the Chief Engineer will be the head of the engineering department onboard, responsible for the safe, efficient, and reliable operation of all machinery and systems.

This is an exceptional opportunity to be part of the introduction and operation of a brand-new vessel within the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group’s fleet. The Group operates lifeline passenger and freight services between the Isles of Scilly and the mainland, including a passenger ship and four cargo vessels. With both Menawethan and Scillonian IV currently in build with Piriou, this role offers the rare chance to shape new operational standards and take pride in bringing the vessel into service.

Minimum Qualifications

• Chief Engineer Certificate of Competency (STCW III/2, < 9000 kW Motor, < 3000GT, no vessel type restrictions).
• Valid ENG1 medical certificate.
• Up-to-date STCW mandatory training, including refresher courses where applicable.

Desirable Experience and Skills

• Experience in coastal or short-sea freight operations.
• Involvement in vessel commissioning, refit, or newbuild projects.
• Knowledge of modern engine and electrical control systems, including automation.
• Strong diagnostic, fault-finding, and problem-solving skills.
• Awareness of maritime environmental management, emissions reduction, energy efficiency measures, and pollution prevention, with the ability to contribute to company environmental objectives.
• Good communication, teamwork, and IT proficiency to support onboard digital systems, reporting platforms, and Safety Management System (SMS) compliance.

Key Responsibilities

Engineering Operations

• Take full responsibility for the safe and efficient operation, maintenance, and repair of all main and auxiliary machinery, electrical systems, and associated equipment.
• Ensure propulsion engines and systems are maintained and operated in accordance with company and manufacturer requirements, achieving optimum efficiency.
• Lead, manage, and be fully accountable for the onboard Planned Maintenance System (PMS), ensuring all tasks are correctly planned, executed, and recorded.
• Maintain fuel quality, quantity, and adequate reserves for each voyage in accordance with company procedures.
• Maintain accurate engineering records, including logbooks, maintenance reports, defect tracking, and digital reporting via onboard IT systems.
• Ensure there are adequate manufacturer’s instructions and operational procedures for all machinery and equipment.
• Maintain an appropriate level of engine and machinery spares onboard.
• Ensure timely, safe, and economical execution of all dry-docking and major repair activities.
• Manage general and engineering expenditure within approved budgetary limits or allowed variance.

Safety, Security, and Compliance

• Ensure all engineering operations comply with class, flag-state, harbour, and port-state control requirements.
• Maintain the vessel in a condition that satisfies statutory and trading approvals.
• Uphold company safety, security, and environmental policies and emergency procedures in accordance with the Safety Management System (SMS), ensuring engineering elements of the SMS are continuously maintained, reviewed, and improved.
• In collaboration with the Chief Officer, ensure the maintenance and safe operation of firefighting, lifesaving, and emergency-related equipment.
• Maintain all pollution-prevention, electrical, electronic, and control systems in full operational readiness.
• Ensure the safe loading, discharging, and handling of bunkers and cargo fuel oil.
• Actively participate in drills, inspections, and safety meetings, supporting the vessel’s Safety Officer.
• Contribute to ongoing risk assessments, audits, and safety improvement initiatives.
• Ensure full compliance with MARPOL and all environmental regulations applicable to the vessel, including fuel management, waste handling, emissions control, and spill prevention.
• Actively support the Company’s environmental and sustainability objectives by identifying opportunities to reduce environmental impact through efficient operation, maintenance practices, and fuel use.
• Contribute to environmental reporting, monitoring, and performance improvement initiatives as required.

Commissioning and Newbuild Support

• Support the vessel’s handover and commissioning phase, including machinery trials, system verification, and documentation review.
• Liaise with shipyard representatives, classification societies, and company technical staff as required.
• Provide input on operational and maintenance considerations to ensure long-term reliability and maintainability.

Teamwork and Leadership

• Collaborate closely with the Master, Chief Officer, and Technical Superintendent to ensure safe and efficient daily operations.
• Assist with deck operational duties as required.
• Mentor and encourage line-managed crew and cadets to foster a professional, safety-focused working environment.
• Promote positive relationships between vessel departments and wider company stakeholders.
• Act as the representative for the vessel in relation to environmental matters, contributing as required to the Company Environmental Committee and supporting the development and implementation of environmental initiatives across the fleet.
• Act at all times in a manner that promotes and protects the interests, reputation, and values of the Company.
• Undertake any other reasonable duties appropriate to the role, as required by your line manager.