Are you an experienced Marine Engineer looking for a hands on role where your skills keep vital harbour operations running smoothly? The Port of Dover is seeking a proactive, safety focused Chief Engineer to join our Marine Services team and support the operation of our towage vessels and wider fleet.
This is an exciting opportunity to work in a dynamic harbour environment, where no two days are the same, and your engineering expertise directly supports essential 24/7 port activities.
Shift pattern: Week on / Week off (7 days on, 7 days off), joining Tuesday. In addition, 23 days annual leave per annum.
About the Role
As Port Vessel Unit (PVU) Engineer, you will be responsible for the safe operation, maintenance and repair of all mechanical, electrical and hydraulic systems across our towage fleet. You will ensure vessels are always ready for service, maintain statutory records, support planned maintenance routines, and work closely with the Master and Technical Superintendent on all technical matters.
You will also support engineering requirements across pilot boats and workboats, taking a leading role in shipyard periods, fault diagnosis, and ongoing technical improvements.
Key Responsibilities
• Maintain, monitor and repair all onboard mechanical, electrical and hydraulic systems.
• Diagnose faults through engine management systems and take corrective action.
• Manage planned maintenance schedules and maintain accurate technical logs.
• Oversee bunkering, fuel, oil and bilge waste operations.
• Ensure compliance with ISM, MARPOL and all safety standards.
• Support mooring operations and general deck duties.
• Assist during shipyard maintenance, dry dockings and repair periods.
• Communicate effectively with shore based teams on technical issues.
• Provide engineering support to pilot boats and workboats.
What We're Looking For
• Experience as a 2nd Engineer (typically 2+ years')
• Strong maintenance, problem solving and diagnostic abilities.
• Experience working on small commercial vessels.
• Minimum STCW III/2 Chief Engineer (Motor) < 6,000kW (Near coastal).
• Valid STCW certification and ENG1.
• Good working knowledge of ISM, MARPOL and technical safety standards.
• Confident using computer based planned maintenance systems.
• Safety focused, proactive and able to work independently.
• Reside within 2 hours of the Port of Dover.
Desirable
• Experience with tugs and pilot vessels.
• Strong hydraulic and electrical engineering knowledge.
• STCW III/2 Chief Engineer Motor Unlimited.
About You
• Calm under pressure with strong decision making skills.
• Excellent communicator and team player.
• Organised and self-motivated.
• Physically fit and comfortable working in a harbour environment.
• A positive ambassador for safety, professionalism and Port of Dover values.
Salary: IRO £60K
Why Join the Port of Dover?
You will play a critical role in one of the UK's most important ports, supporting essential marine operations that keep our harbour moving. You'll be part of a supportive, skilled team, with opportunities to contribute to improvements, develop your technical expertise and work within a unique and rewarding environment.
If you're a motivated, capable engineer seeking variety, responsibility and the chance to make a real impact, we'd love to hear from you.
Benefits
* 5 weeks annual leave + bank holidays (pro rata)
* Generous contributory pension scheme
* Discretionary annual bonus scheme
* Private Health Care
* Life assurance
* Employee assistance programme
* 3rd party discounts
* Cycle to work scheme
* Benefits and reward platform
* Free Parking
* Employee volunteering scheme
All offers of employment are subject to us obtaining satisfactory references (covering all education, training, employment and unemployment in the preceding 5 years) and there will be a pre-employment medical including a Drug and Alcohol test. We need to satisfy your Right to Work in the UK.
Please be aware that all employees will be subject to background security checks in order to obtain a Dock Pass.
We value the unique differences that each of our colleagues bring to work every day and are committed to creating an environment where everyone is looking after each other and respected, included and able to perform at their best.
All applications are reviewed by our team — we do not use AI for screening.
CLOSING DATE: 13 MARCH 2026 at 5PM