1st Engineer - Temporary / Seasonal - Min exp 6 years - €6000 - Malta
Chief Engineer (STCW III/2 or III/3) – Search and Rescue Operations
Contract Type: German Seafarer’s Contract
Rotation: 2:1 Paid Leave Ratio (e.g., 60 days on / 30 days paid leave)
Salary: €6,000 Gross
The Mission:
Join an international crew of activist rescue professionals aboard the MV Louise Michel. We are seeking a highly skilled Chief Engineer who combines maritime mastery with a commitment to queer-feminist, anti-racist, and anti-fascist principles. Operating within a flat hierarchy, this is not a traditional engine-room role; it is an act of direct resistance. You will be responsible for the technical integrity of a high-speed SAR vessel while standing in solidarity with people on the move and actively fighting for freedom of movement for all.
Your Responsibilities:
Technical & Engine Room Management:
• Total Oversight: Lead the operation, maintenance, and repair of the main engine, generators, pumps, compressors, and hydraulic systems.
• Deck Equipment: Maintain and operate the crane, anchor winch, and outboard engines for the SIB (Small Inflatable Boat).
• Leadership: Manage a dedicated engine team of three, including the development of the engine room watch plan.
• Logistics: Responsible for inventory, spare parts procurement, lubricants, and managing external contractors.
• Reporting: Maintain precise daily records of fuel, lube oil, fresh water, and black water. Ensure all maintenance documentation is completed to a high standard.
Operational & SAR Duties:
• Active SAR Participation: You will play a key role during rescue operations, including launching SIBs, acting as a lookout, embarking survivors, and assisting the medical team with guest care (food, water, and support).
• General Seamanship: Assist with mooring lines during berthing/unberthing and general ship maintenance.
• Coordination: Work in close collaboration with the Master and Head of Operations. Coordinate with on-shore logisticians regarding shipyard requirements and technical repairs.
Required Qualifications & Skills:
• Licensing: Valid Chief Engineer’s License (STCW III/3 or III/2, min. 3000 kW).
• Endorsements: If you hold a non-German license, a Certificate of Equivalent Competency (Endorsement of Recognition) from the German BSH is mandatory.
• Certification: Valid STCW VI/1 (Basic Safety) and STCW I/9 (Medical Fitness for Sea Service).
• Documentation: Valid Seafarer’s Book (or German Seafarer’s ID Card) and a Passport with at least 6 months validity.
• Experience: Longstanding engineering experience on board ships with a strong working knowledge of standard safety equipment.
• Languages: Excellent, fluent command of English (written and spoken).
What We Offer:
• Salary: €6,000 (before taxes).
• Rotation: 2:1 paid leave scheme (for every 2 days on board, you earn 1 day of paid leave).
• A formal German seafarer’s contract with a reputable company.
• The opportunity to apply your technical skills to life-saving humanitarian work.
How to Apply:
If you have the technical expertise and the drive to support SAR missions, we want to hear from you. Please submit your CV, cover letter, copies of your CoC, and BSH Endorsements via our email [blocked]. APPLICATIONS SENT VIA THE PLATFORM WON'T BE CONSIDERED, PLEASE SUBMIT IT VIA OUR EMAIL.
