Chief Mechanic

The Chief Mechanic is the senior deck department technician responsible for the operation, maintenance, and repair of all deck machinery, mechanical systems, and equipment outside the engine room. This pivotal role ensures the vessel's key operational equipment—such as winches, cranes, mooring systems, and, most critically, the hydraulic systems for anchor handling and towing is maintained to the highest standard.

The Chief Mechanic reports directly to the Captain and works closely with the Chief Engineer.

Key Responsibilities

Deck Machinery Maintenance & Operations

Lead the operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of all deck machinery, including:

AHTS Focus: Anchor Handling Winches, Towing Winches, Storage Winches, and associated wire/cable systems.

PSV Focus: Cranes, Pipe Carrying Systems, Ramps.

General: Mooring Winches, Windlasses, Hydraulic Power Packs (HPUs), Valves, and Cylinders.

Perform daily inspections, planned maintenance system (PMS) tasks, and emergency repairs on all deck mechanical equipment.

Possess expert-level knowledge of hydraulic and pneumatic systems, including design, schematics, and fault-finding procedures.

Safety & Compliance

Ensure all deck machinery and lifting equipment certifications are current (e.g., wire ropes, slings, shackles, cranes).

Strictly follow the company’s Safety Management System (SMS), permit-to-work systems, and lock-out/tag-out (LOTO) procedures for all maintenance tasks.

Lead by example in promoting a safety-first culture, conducting toolbox talks, and ensuring all work is performed risk-free.

Ensure compliance with all Qatari Port State and Ministry of Transport regulations regarding deck equipment.

Leadership & Administration

Supervise, mentor, and assign duties to Motormen, Deck Mechanics, and Deck Crew for mechanical tasks.

Manage spares, tools, and consumables inventory for deck mechanical systems, coordinating with the Captain and onshore management for requisitions.

Maintain accurate maintenance records, logs, and reports for all deck machinery.

Collaborate with the Chief Engineer on systems interfacing between deck and engine room (e.g., power supply to HPUs).

Operational Support

Act as a key operational team member on deck during critical operations such as:

AHTS Operations: Anchor handling, towing, rig moves.

PSV Operations: Cargo handling and supply tasks.

Ensure deck machinery is operated correctly during operations, and respond immediately to any mechanical issues.

Requirements

• Certifications & Documents: Valid STCW Certifications (including Basic Safety Training, Security Awareness). ValidQatari Mechanic License or the ability to obtain one is highly desirable. Valid certificates for any advanced training(e.g., Hydraulic Systems, Crane Maintenance, Slinging & Rigging). A minimum of 5 years of experience in the role of Mechanic or Chief Mechanic on offshore vessels. Extensive and proven hands‑on experience on AHTS and/or PSV vessel types is essential. Demonstrable expertise in troubleshooting and repairing complex hydraulic systems. Strong background in mechanical fabrication, welding, and machining is a significant advantage.
• Medical: Valid seafarer's medical fitness certificate from an approved facility.
• Technical Skills: Expert-level knowledge of hydraulic systems, pneumatics, and mechanical power transmission. Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and schematics.
• Personal Skills: Exceptional leadership, problem‑solving, and communication skills. Must be a proactive, hands‑on team leader capable of working under pressure in a demanding environment. Fluency in English (written and verbal) is mandatory.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience working on vessels operating under Qatar Energy standards.
• Experience with specific brands of deck equipment (e.g., Rolls-Royce, Hawboldt, National Oilwell Varco, Hydralift).
• Experience operating in the Arabian Gulf region.
• Formal qualifications in Mechanical Engineering or a related trade (e.g., Diploma, Trade Certificate).

What We Offer

• A highly competitive, tax-free salary package commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive benefits package including company-provided accommodation, transportation, and medical insurance.
• A balanced rotation schedule (e.g., 6 weeks on / 6 weeks off).
• The opportunity to work on advanced, modern vessels for a world-class energy sector.
• Continuous professional development and training opportunities.