Port Engineer

Oregon State University

Oregon State University

USD 94k-125k / year

Posted on May 1, 2026
Position Information
Department Marine Operations (RMO)
Position Title Specialist 2-Port Engineer
Job Title Port Engineer
Appointment Type Professional Faculty
Job Location Newport
Benefits Eligible Full-Time, benefits eligible
Remote or Hybrid option?
Job Summary
Marine Operations is seeking a Port Engineer. This is a full-time (1.00 FTE), 12-month, professional faculty position. This position will work out of multiple locations including Newport, Oregon, Corvallis, Oregon, and in Houma, Louisiana.

The Port Engineer supports oceanographic research for Oregon State University under the Division of Research and Innovation (DRI) in the Marine Operations group in Newport, Oregon. Marine Operations is responsible for the scheduling, operation, maintenance, and repair of multiple Oceanographic research vessels (R/V’s), a support facility, pier, heavy lift equipment and for the portable scientific vans in the UNOLS West Coast Van Pool.

The vessels and vans are used in support of research and education conducted by the College, and other educational and research institutions, through the University-National Oceanographic Laboratory System (UNOLS). Our success is based on an interdisciplinary approach and state-of-the-art technology and facilities. Through field experiments, theoretical investigations, and numerical modeling and simulations, we study all aspects of ocean, land, and atmosphere processes and interactions. This position contributes to broadening the knowledge of the marine and atmospheric environments through education and research.

The Port Engineer serves as Marine Operations principal authority on all engineering related matters. Duties include managing the material readiness of midsized and regional classed Research Vessels, the portable research laboratories in the van pool, and the Marine Operations Facility in Newport, Oregon. The Port Engineer is a critical part of a small, dedicated team. The Port Engineer tasks include assisting with the recruiting and selection of vessel and shore-based employees; preparing specifications for shipyard and major repair activities; specifying major vessel equipment for purchase; assisting in the preparation of budgets and proposals; implementing procedures and maintaining documentation to meet a variety of regulatory requirements including the Computer Maintenance Management System (CMMS) for the vessels and shore equipment, Safety Management System (SMS), and US Coast Guard/American Bureau of Shipping inspection and survey, and the audits that are associated with those bodies. A portion of the incumbent’s time is spent out of the office, in hands-on activities which may include crane operations and troubleshooting vessel-based engineering issues among other facility and heavy equipment responsibilities.

OSU is managing the design and construction of three new Regional Class Research Vessels (RCRV’s) for the National Science Foundation. The first vessel, R/V TAANI, will be operated by OSU Marine Operations. The Port Engineer will be instrumental in the commissioning of R/V Taani, testing mechanical systems and establishing systems and infrastructure that will function for the life of the ship. The Port Engineer will need to work with OSU staff and crew at the Project Field Office (PFO) in Houma Louisiana, with the OSU Transition to Operations team in Oregon, the shipyard who is constructing the vessel, the National Science Foundation, and additional stakeholders. The Port Engineer will provide advice, leadership, and direction regarding operational procedures, monitoring systems and methods to meet engineering best practices. OSU Marine Operations will work with RCRV program after delivery to outfit the ship, conduct underway trials and to complete a warranty haul out.

This position will work out of multiple locations including Marine Operations in Newport,
Oregon, the RCRV the project field office in Corvallis, Oregon, in Houma, Louisiana while R/V Taani is being built, and remote work as agreed upon by the employee and supervisor, contingent upon supervisor approval.
Why OSU?

Working for Oregon State University is so much more than a job!


Oregon State University is a dynamic community of dreamers, doers, problem-solvers and change-makers. We don’t wait for challenges to present themselves — we seek them out and take them on. We welcome students, faculty and staff from every background and perspective into a community where everyone feels seen and heard. We have deep-rooted mindfulness for the natural world and all who depend on it, and together, we apply knowledge, tools and skills to build a better future for all.


FACTS:


• Top 1.4% university in the world

• More research funding than all public universities in Oregon combined

• 1 of 3 land, sea, space and sun grant universities in the U.S.

• 2 campuses, 11 colleges, 12 experiment stations, and Extension programs in all 36 counties

• 7 cultural resource centers that offer education, celebration and belonging for everyone

• 100+ undergraduate degree programs, 80+ graduate degrees plus hundreds of minor options and certificates

• 35k+ students including more than 2.3k international students and 10k students of color

• 217k+ alumni worldwide

• For more interesting facts about OSU visit: https://oregonstate.edu/about


Locations:


Oregon State has a statewide presence with campuses in Corvallis and Bend, the OSU Portland Center and the Hatfield Marine Science Center on the Pacific Coast in Newport.


Oregon State’s beautiful, historic and state-of-the-art main campus is located in one of America’s best college towns. Corvallis is located close to the Pacific Ocean, the Cascade mountains and Oregon wine country. Nestled in the heart of the Willamette Valley, this beautiful city offers miles of mountain biking and hiking trails, a river perfect for boating or kayaking and an eclectic downtown featuring local cuisine, popular events and performances.


Total Rewards Package:


Oregon State University offers a comprehensive benefits package with benefits eligible positions that is designed to meet the needs of employees and their families including:

• Medical, Dental, Vision and Basic Life. OSU pays 95% of premiums for you and your eligible dependents.

• Free confidential mental health and emotional support services, and counseling resources.

• Retirement savings paid by the university.

• A generous paid leave package, including holidays, vacation and sick leave.

• Tuition reduction benefits for you or your qualifying dependents at OSU or the additional six Oregon Public Universities.

• Robust Work Life programs including Dual Career assistance resources, flexible work arrangements, a Family Resource Center, Affinity Groups and an Employee Assistance Program.

• Optional lifestyle benefits such as pet, accident, and critical illness insurance, giving you peace of mind and the support you need to thrive in all aspects of your life.


Oregon State University is deeply committed to the principles of a Health Promoting University. This commitment drives a collaborative approach across OSU’s safety and well-being programs, reducing silos and coordinating efforts to enhance employee safety and well-being. By prioritizing resources that support the health of both employees and students, OSU fosters a culture of care and a healthier campus environment where everyone can thrive.


2025 Best Place for Working Parents® Designation!


Future and current OSU employees can use the Benefits Calculator to learn more about the full value of the benefits provided at OSU.
Key Responsibilities
25% Support Regulatory Compliance
  • Participate in inspections, drills, safety meetings, continued trainings.
  • Participate in vessel and shoreside ISM audits. Act as alternate Designated Person Ashore.
  • Oversee utilization of the vessel CMMS. Track and follow up on all vessel nonconformity reports & equipment deficiencies. Responsible for investigating and troubleshooting equipment failures. Provide support to vessel engineering team ashore or at sea. Advise engineers on appropriate methods of operations to prevent occurrence and/or reoccurrence of equipment fault.
  • Cooperate with regulatory bodies including ABS and USCG to ensure standards & requirements for alterations or modifications to the vessel are met.
  • Maintain detailed records, provide reports, and establish standard operating procedures and policies as applied.
  • Maintain regulatory compliance of the shipboard scientific vans in the National Science Foundation/UNOLS West Coast Van Pool managed by OSU, and performing other such tasks as may be identified by the Marine Superintendent.
20%- Provide Expert Level Guidance
  • Serve as subject matter expert providing leadership, advice and guidance to Vessel Personnel and Marine Superintendent.
  • Provide engineering advice and expertise to assist the Marine Superintendent in preparing annual operation schedules, developing budgets, and writing proposals.
  • Serve as representative of the Marine Superintendent, Marine Operations and/or Oregon State University in committees, with outside entities and regulatory bodies as assigned.
  • Provide support of Marine Operations vessels by planning for unusual scientific operations onboard vessels,
  • Provide engineering support for midsize vessels as needed. Regularly attend vessels during out of service and dry-docking periods.
20% Manage Facilities and Equipment
  • Plans for future maintenance needs, budgets, and scheduling to assure consistent operational readiness. Ensure implementation and execution of planned maintenance and quality systems.
  • Obtain, install, and maintain both vessel and shore-side equipment, according to applicable regulations and safety standards.
  • Provide inventory control of parts for all vessels, vans and shore side equipment.
  • Oversee the west coast van pool compliance, safety, service, maintenance and repair.
  • Assist in the connection of vessel services & scientific support equipment such as winches and vans. Provide mechanical and engineering support for visiting vessels including hookups, electrical, fueling, etc.
  • Provide support as needed for scientific community both at the facility and onboard vessels including last minute troubleshooting.

20% Provide Leadership Supervision and Direction for Assigned Staff
  • Plan, assign and review work; establish goals for each position assigned; participate in advancement activities, participate in addressing and responding to grievances and developing corrective actions as necessary.
  • Assist in efforts to recruit, interview, and select ship crew and shore personnel including regular, full time, temporary and intermittent positions.
  • Assist Port Captain in development of and recommendations for training programs for engineers as directed
15% Procurement Management
  • Locate appropriate vendors, build relationships, solicit bids, coordinate equipment delivery and repair, schedule vessel visits.
  • Oversee service of engineering, vans & shoreside equipment. Prepare specifications, with the assistance of the Vessel Personnel for drydocking, major machinery overhauls, and modifications to the vessels, vans, and other capital projects.
  • Schedule shore visits & review completed work. Assist with ship engineering ordering and procurement, working closely with the Program Specialist on capital expenditures and service agreements in line with Oregon State policies and procedures.
  • Maintain detailed purchasing records and invoices with OSU fiscal policy and federal grant reporting requirements.
  • Assist in the development of criteria to evaluate proposals for work and participate in selection panels for contractors.
What You Will Need
A Bachelor’s degree in a technical field from maritime or military academy, college, or university.

Acceptable substitutes for a degree are:
  • 4 years of sea service as First Assistant or Chief Engineer on research or commercial vessels.
  • 6 years’ experience with research or commercial vessel management.
  • Military experience equal to or greater than the above qualifications.
The position also requires:
  • A technical knowledge of ships and related equipment, maintenance operations, overhaul, and design.
  • Must acquire forklift training and certification within 6 months of hire through OSU.
  • Ability to interact and cooperate with research vessel crew, marine technicians, university staff, and scientific personnel.
  • Familiarity with applicable international and US regulations pertaining to the operation and maintenance of sea-going research vessels.
  • Excellent computer skills including proficiencies with Microsoft office products (Excel, Outlook, and word), database use and internet search engines.
  • Demonstrated strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Have or ability to obtain a U.S. Passport and Transportation Worker
  • Identification Card (TWIC) credentials within 6 months of hire.
This position is designated as a critical or security-sensitive position; therefore, the incumbent must successfully complete a criminal history check and be determined to be position qualified as per University Standard: 05-010 et seq. Incumbents are required to self-report convictions and those in youth programs may have additional criminal history checks every 24 months.

This position requires driving a university vehicle or a personal vehicle on behalf of the university; therefore, the incumbent must successfully complete a motor vehicle history check, possess, and maintain a current, valid driver’s license in their state of residence, be determined to be position qualified and self-report convictions as per University Policy 05-030.
What We Would Like You to Have
  • Bachelor’s degree in Engineering from maritime or military academy, college, or university.
  • Experience in drafting shipyard work specifications and overseeing shipyard repair work.
  • Previous duty as an Engineer at sea on research vessels or commercial vessels
  • Previous UNOLS or research vessel experience.
  • Current or previous experience as a Port Engineer for a research or commercial operation.
  • Current US Coast Guard (USCG) License as Chief Engineer Unlimited HP.
  • Current Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) certificate.
  • Current EPA Refrigerant Technician Certificate, or ability to obtain within six months of start date.
  • Demonstrated ability to work productively and cooperatively in teams, and to contribute to an inclusive team culture where all individuals feel valued and respected.
  • Experience with new vessel builds and sea trials preparing a vessel for service.
  • Experience with computer-based maintenance systems for vessels and facilities.
  • Previous experience working within State or University practices and policies.
  • Ability to work effectively in an administrative environment and follow highly structured policies and procedures while managing operations and services of a busy maritime operation. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
  • Professional demeanor, ability to use appropriate levels of tact and courtesy and communicate respectfully when communicating with individuals at all employment levels across widely diverse backgrounds.
  • Experience as a Designated Person Ashore and with internal and external audits.
  • Excellent time management skills, ability to handle multiple tasks, set priorities, and meet deadlines.
Working Conditions / Work Schedule
  • This position requires working in multiple locations including Oregon and Louisiana while R/V Taani is under construction; travel will be required and is anticipated on a project needed basis.
  • Ship Operations is a seven day per week operation; therefore, weekend and holiday work may be periodically required. Shift and/or work assignment may change based on operational needs.
  • Will work aboard vessels at sea and on small vessels on occasion.
  • Work in a port/dock environment operating forklift and lift equipment, assisting vessel mooring, etc. The ability to move about in small and confined shipboard spaces and to conduct light facility tasks including heavy equipment operations as needed is required.
  • Work may involve heights such as a ship’s mast, may be performed over water, and where lock-out/tag procedures are required.
  • May be exposed to high noise levels, or in environments where paint, fuel or other fumes are present.
  • Use of protective equipment including safety eye wear, hearing protection and respirator or dust mask is required.
  • This position is required lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects weighing up to 40 pounds.
Pay Method Salary
Pay Period 1st through the last day of the month
Pay Date Last working day of the month
Recommended Full-Time Salary Range $94,000 - $125,000
Link to Position Description
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number P09887UF
Number of Vacancies 1
Anticipated Appointment Begin Date 07/12/2026
Anticipated Appointment End Date
Posting Date 04/30/2026
Full Consideration Date 05/14/2026
Closing Date 05/28/2026
Indicate how you intend to recruit for this search Competitive / External - open to ALL qualified applicants
Special Instructions to Applicants
To ensure full consideration, applications must be received by May 14, 2026. Applications will continue to be accepted after the full consideration date, until a sufficient applicant pool has been achieved or the position is filled. The closing date is subject to change without notice to applicants

When applying you will be required to attach the following electronic documents:

1) A resume/CV; and

2) A cover letter indicating how your qualifications and experience have prepared you for this position.

You will also be required to submit the names of at least three professional references, their e-mail addresses and telephone numbers as part of the application process.

For additional information please contact: LM Hyslop at Lisamarie.hyslop@oregonstate.edu or 541-867-0224.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability, protected veteran, and other protected status.

OSU will conduct a review of the National Sex Offender Public website prior to hire.

Starting salary within the salary range will be commensurate with skills, education, and experience.

OSU is a fair chance employer committed to inclusive hiring. We encourage applications from candidates who bring a wide range of lived experience including involvement with the justice system. This job has “critical or security-sensitive” responsibilities. If you are selected as a finalist, your initial job offer will be contingent upon the results of a job-related pre-employment check (such as a background check, motor vehicle history check, sexual misconduct reference check, etc.). Background check results do not automatically disqualify a candidate. Take a look at our Background Checks website including the for candidates section for more details. If you have questions or concerns about the pre-employment check, please contact OSU’s Employee and Labor Relations team at employee.relations@oregonstate.edu.
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