New Construction Project Engineer

JOB SUMMARYThe 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 and the 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 RESPONSIBILITIESManage 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 SKILLSMarine engineering systemsShip construction processesShipyard production methodsTechnical drawing interpretation DESIGN REVIEW & TECHNICAL COORDINATIONConduct 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 OVERSIGHTMonitor 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 & COMMISSIONINGSupport 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 COMPLIANCEEnsure vessel compliance with applicable standards, including MARPOL, classification society rules, and flag state requirements. VENDOR & EQUIPMENT MANAGEMENTCoordinate 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 & REPORTINGMaintain 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 MANAGEMENTReview engineering changes for technical and cost impacts.Support evaluation of shipyard variation orders.Assist the project management team in controlling technical cost growth. DELIVERY & HANDOVERParticipate 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 & EXPERIENCENew graduate or minimum 4 years of marine vessel operation experience, such as maintenance, drydocking, major repair project management, and new constructionClass 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 educationFamiliarity with propulsion systems, marine electrical systems, HVAC, piping, deck machinery, and automation systemsAttention to detail and problem-solving skills; sometimes complexExcellent interpersonal skillsRequires proficiency with computer hardware and software, including the Microsoft Office suite of applications and AutoCAD software LICENSURE & CERTIFICATIONSA Merchant Mariner Credential, such as an officer endorsement as a chief engineer, is preferredA valid Passport (Required)An active and valid Texas driver's license (Required)Transportation Worker's Identification Credential(Required) REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITIESAbility to always communicate effectively and professionallyAbility to conduct a physical inspection of vessels involving tight spaces and heights in active industrial working environmentsAbility to express excellent professional interpersonal skills when communicating with employees, shipyard personnel, vendors, and customersAbility to maintain confidentiality in all matters and areas of the organizationAbility to manage multiple demands simultaneously while maintaining service standardsAbility to plan and organize work in a dynamic environmentAbility to prepare comprehensive, coherent written technical reportsAbility to promote, contribute to, and accept responsibility for a safe working environmentAbility to remain calm and project a positive demeanor during times of stressAbility to understand and execute complex oral and written instructionsAbility to work independently with minimal or no guidanceAble to act with a minimum of planning and guidanceAble to establish and maintain effective relationships with personnel and stakeholders to gain their trust and respectAnticipates business issues to align operational prioritiesConsistently 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 valuesDesign and construction of marine vessels from concept through final constructionEstablishes 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 metExcellent written and verbal communication skillsInterpersonal skills include self-awareness and the ability to deal professionally with others, and always make professional judgmentsMust be a team player and support the mission, vision, and goals of G&H Towing and the departmentMust be service-oriented and customer-centric to all internal and external customersNaval architecture, marine engineering, mechanical engineering, system safety and reliability, and shipyard safety requirements.Proven ability to troubleshoot, test resolutions, and escalate common issuesProven analytical and problem-solving skillsRobust understanding of the U.S. Coast Guard regulations and ABS rules applicable to steel vessel construction and repairStrong background in operations, construction, maintenance, and repairStrong communication, organizational, analytical, time management, problem-solving, and planning skills WORKING CONDITIONSOut-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, including out-of-town travelWork will be performed in the office and the fieldSPECIAL PROJECTSAssist 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 managerCompletion of other duties as assigned by the department manager, as related to the program and position ESSENTIAL JOB-RELATED PHYSICAL & MENTAL REQUIREMENTSPhysical:Ability to ascend and descend stairsAbility to board vessels safelyAbility to bend, twist, kneel, stoop, and or reach for itemsAbility to detect and write effectivelyAbility to handle objectsAbility to hear with or without aidAbility to move around within an office setting and or other locations as neededAbility to operate office equipmentAbility to push, pull, and or squatAbility to remain in a stationary position for long periodsAbility 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 bilgesAbility to have visual acuity to operate a motor vehicle and observe objects within the work settingMental:Ability to accept constructive criticismAbility to anticipate needsAbility to cultivate a positive working environmentAbility to express oneself clearly and effectively, orally and in writing, and use ethical and professional judgmentAbility 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 assistanceAbility to maintain regular attendanceAbility to meet deadlinesAbility to be professional and use professional judgment 100% of the timeAbility to multitask and plan time efficiently 100% of the timeAbility to perform job description and duties with minor supervisionAbility to reason and analyze effectivelyAbility to solve practical problems as they relate to the positionAbility to understand, communicate, and comprehend information in EnglishAbility to work professionally with others 100% of the timeRequired to pass and maintain all mandatory trainingRequires the ability to work collaboratively in a team settingRequires the ability to treat everyone professionally with courtesy, decency, and respect, worksite environmental conditions Ability to work aloneAbility to work closely with othersAbility to work closely with customers who may have hygiene challengesAbility to work long and or irregular hoursMay be subjected to a hostile environmentPotential exposure to tobacco productsMay be exposed to excessive noisesMay be subjected to both inside and outside environmental conditions, which include variations in temperature, dampness, humidity, heat, and coldMay be subjected to exposure to fumes, dust, gases, welding arc, and or chemicalsMay be subjected to water and or liquidsTravel by motor vehicle, van, bus, marine vessel, or planeWe 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 isbased 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.