Risevoic
Licensed Assistant Engineer
Company : Kirby Inland Marine
Location : Channelview, TX, 77530
Job Type : Full Time / Part Time
Date Posted : 3 January 2026
Overview
The Vessel Assistant Engineer's primary function is to follow the Chief Engineer’s direction on maintenance repair of propulsion systems, heating and ventilating systems, and other mechanical and electrical equipment on tugboats and barges.
Responsibilities
- Follow direction of Chief Engineer
- Familiarity with KOM documented Company policies and procedures.
- Ensure that work done on machinery is in accordance with safety procedures, including the use of personal protective equipment.
- Maintain vessel inventories.
- Safely operate and maintain vessel machinery as required to carry out the vessel's utilization requirements; monitor equipment and perform inspections, tests, general maintenance and repairs required to ensure proper operating conditions.
- Manage fuel, lube, ballast and other fluids essential operation; fueling and transfers; consult with the tug Captain regarding issues in order to maintain safe and efficient operating conditions.
- Properly and legibly complete, submit and maintain vessel maintenance logs, work requests, requisitions, inspection reports and any other paperwork as required; instruct deck watch standers in the proper conduct of engine room rounds.
- Ensure that the Captain and Engineering Management are kept informed of vessel requirements, conditions, scheduled maintenance or repair items that are beyond his ability to complete, or any items that are deferred for any reason.
- Assist the PIC Tankerman with barge repairs that affect cargo operations; assist on deck as directed by the tug Captain; stand watches during tug operations.
The responsibilities outlined above cannot totally encompass or define all tasks, which may be required of the position holder. The outline of responsibilities given above may, therefore, vary from time to time without materially changing either the character or level of responsibility of the position.
Qualifications
- Valid Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with USCG Designated Duty Engineer 4000 or Third Assistant Engineer required
- Valid USCG Medical Certificate required
- STCW compliant
- Canada Compliant
- Valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) required
- Tug and barge experience preferred.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, securing a valid Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with USCG Designated Duty Engineer 4000 or Third Assistant Engineer endorsement is essential. Additionally, compliance with STCW, a valid USCG medical certificate, and a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) are typically required for this role in the Channelview maritime sector.
This role focuses heavily on vessel propulsion and mechanical systems maintenance aboard tugboats and barges, unlike other assistant engineering jobs that might emphasize civil, electrical, or software engineering tasks. It demands maritime certifications and hands-on experience with marine machinery and safety protocols.
Progression often leads to higher engineering ranks such as Chief Engineer or specialized marine engineering roles. Gaining expertise in vessel operations, safety management, and towing logistics at Kirby Inland Marine can open doors to leadership positions within the maritime engineering field.
Besides the standard USCG and STCW certifications, Kirby Inland Marine emphasizes familiarity with company-specific policies and procedures, as well as practical tug and barge experience. Their safety culture also mandates thorough knowledge of personal protective equipment use and vessel operational standards.
Kirby Inland Marine’s focus on inland marine operations means Licensed Assistant Engineers engage closely with tug and barge systems, emphasizing maintenance aligned with vessel utilization and safety. The company’s operational scale and documented KOM policies create a structured environment unique to this employer.
Channelview's strategic location near Houston's port facilities sustains steady demand for maritime engineers, though the market remains moderately competitive due to specialized certifications required. Candidates with tug and barge experience and up-to-date credentials tend to have an advantage in local hiring.
Channelview offers proximity to major waterways, which can reduce commute times for marine roles; however, shift schedules and watch duties aboard vessels may impact work-life balance. Prospective engineers should assess vessel operation hours and local traffic patterns when planning their daily routines.
Licensed Assistant Engineers in this region generally earn between $60,000 and $75,000 annually, depending on experience and certification levels. Kirby Inland Marine’s compensation aligns with industry standards, factoring in maritime expertise and compliance with all regulatory requirements.
The company enforces strict adherence to safety procedures, including personal protective equipment use and documented maintenance logs. Licensed Engineers are tasked with monitoring vessel machinery, conducting inspections, and coordinating with the tug captain to maintain safe and efficient operations.
Operating in dynamic inland waterways requires adaptability to varying vessel conditions and cargo operations. Engineers must manage fuel, ballast, and mechanical systems while coordinating with deck crews and captains, ensuring both safety and operational efficiency under often fluctuating environmental factors.