Port Engineer (Channelview, TX)

Job Title: Port Engineer
Company: American Commercial Barge Line
Location: Channelview, TX
Job Type: Full Time; Salaried

The Port Engineer is responsible for repair scheduling, cost control, and the timely completion of vessel and barge repairs at designated port locations, ensuring safe operating conditions and cost-efficient maintenance practices. This role collaborates closely with internal departments, shipyards, key suppliers, and regulatory authorities to maintain fleet reliability and improve vessel efficiency by minimizing downtime, repair expenses, claims, and cargo losses. The Port Engineer ensures all repair activities are completed in compliance with company policies and applicable government regulations while supporting the safe and efficient operation of the fleet. Through proactive oversight and coordination, this position helps maximize operational performance and asset availability.

What you will be doing... Your IMPACT 

• Leads Maintenance Team Members with maintaining ACBL fleet, reducing equipment downtime, and ensuring safety and regulatory protocols are followed.


• Develops standards and best practices with vendors and maintenance Team Members to ensure timely, accurate, and safe completion of services.


• Ensures departmental, company, and industry standards are met and executes corrective actions to ensure vessel and facility operations are safe and compliant.


• Assist in departmental planning activities regarding fleet repairs, capital expenditures, and assists in the development of procedures to improve the availability of company assets.


• Verifies the company is prepared to promptly respond to vessel emergencies and assist in supporting investigative efforts and identifying ways to prevent future incidents.


• Negotiates prices and timelines for parts and repairs, providing work summaries and scope of work information for internal and external shops.


• Authorizes and approves on-site repair costs up to approval limit.


• Performs all other duties as assigned.

What we are looking for...

You will need to have: 

• Valid driver’s license and valid TWIC card.


• Knowledge of barge tank transfer operations, boat construction, engine repairs, and river systems.


• Knowledge of USCG, OSHA, and MSDS regulations.


• Must possess the ability to supervise others, facilitate teamwork and provide functional direction.


• Must possess the ability to communicate professionally and effectively through normal channels, including meetings, email, and presentation formats.


• Must be able to travel with minimal notice. Anticipated travel will be approximately 30%. 

Even better if you have:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field.


• 5-8 Years of maintenance experience with at least 3 years in maintenance management.


• Experience in fleet maintenance or boat/barge design and construction in marine transportation or shipyard environment.


• Previous boat maintenance competence (diesel engine mechanics), extensive structural design of towing vessels, and propulsion competence in marine transportation or shipyard environment.


• Excellent computer skills and an understanding of office productivity software such as Google G Suite or MS Office.

FLSA Status: 

Exempt