New Construction Project Engineer

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.