Chief Marine Engineer Position Overview

The chief marine engineer at Sealord plays a crucial role on fishing trawlers, handling all propulsion, technical, and maintenance systems onboard.

This position offers ‘trip on, trip off’ rotation, with shifts lasting up to 12 hours, ensuring a strong work-life balance at sea.

Expect to collaborate closely with a dedicated crew of 1,200 employed by Sealord, New Zealand’s premier seafood company.

Applicants must currently hold MEC 4 and MEC 3 marine engineering tickets, with proven deep-sea engineering experience and a strong problem-solving approach.

All meals and personal protective equipment are provided during trips, plus extensive training opportunities are available for professional growth.

Day-To-Day Responsibilities

As a chief marine engineer, you will be responsible for managing the ship’s mechanical and electrical systems, including propulsion and processing equipment.

Daily routines involve preventive maintenance, monitoring vessel performance, and troubleshooting technical issues as they arise while at sea.

Leadership is key, as you will coordinate tasks within a close-knit engineering team, ensuring safe and efficient vessel operations.

You must remain adaptable, working independently and reliably even in challenging marine environments and varying shift hours.

Commitment to maintaining safety and environmental standards while respecting colleagues and equipment is crucial.

Advantages of This Role

Sealord supports engineers with continuous training and development, offering pathways to new certifications and career advancement.

Rotation schedules allow plenty of time for rest, contributing to a healthy work-life balance and job satisfaction.

Potential Downsides

Long stretches at sea can be physically and mentally demanding, with limited connectivity and extended hours of shift work.

Candidates must pass drug tests and medical assessments, and legal entitlement to work is mandatory, potentially restricting some applicants.

Final Verdict

The chief marine engineer job at Sealord is well-suited to experienced professionals passionate about the maritime sector who thrive in a structured, supportive, and adventurous environment.

If you have the necessary credentials and a drive for excellence, this role offers stability and room for growth in a respected organisation.