Hire a Chief Engineer in 24 Hours

Our comprehensive recruitment service includes an initial consultation to understand your exact requirements, access to our exclusive network of pre-vetted Chief Engineer candidates, shortlist delivery within 24-48 hours, interview coordination and logistics support, thorough background checks and reference verification, offer negotiation assistance, and ongoing support through the onboarding period. We operate on a success-fee basis—you only pay when your new Chief Engineer starts work. Our replacement guarantee provides additional security, offering a free replacement if the placement doesn't work out within the guarantee period.

We deliver your first shortlist of 3-5 qualified Chief Engineer candidates within 24-48 hours of our initial consultation. The complete hiring timeline typically spans 2-4 weeks: Week 1 for shortlisting and initial interviews, Week 2 for final interviews and selection, Weeks 3-4 for reference checks, offer negotiation, and mobilization. Urgent replacements can be expedited – we've successfully placed Chief Engineers within 7 days when vessels faced immediate needs. The timeline largely depends on your decision-making speed and candidate availability.

Minimum requirements include an unlimited Chief Engineer Certificate of Competency (CoC) or Y3/Y2 certification for yachts, current STCW Basic Safety Training, and valid ENG1 medical certificate. Beyond certificates, look for 5+ years yacht-specific experience, familiarity with your engine types (MTU, MAN, Caterpillar), and proven leadership experience. Additional valuable qualifications include ISM understanding, ship security officer certification, and specialized training on systems like dynamic positioning or hybrid propulsion. The best candidates combine technical expertise with yacht service standards and cultural adaptability.

We provide a comprehensive graduated guarantee: if your Chief Engineer leaves within 90 days, we source a replacement at no additional cost. This guarantee extends to 6 months on a pro-rated basis – for example, if they leave after 4 months, we credit 50% of our fee toward finding a replacement. Our 94% retention rate after one year demonstrates our matching accuracy, but this guarantee ensures you're protected during the critical integration period. The guarantee covers voluntary departures and performance issues, though not circumstances beyond anyone's control like medical emergencies.

Our seven-step vetting process goes beyond checking certificates. We conduct technical assessments specific to yacht systems, verify all certifications directly with issuing authorities, and perform comprehensive background checks including criminal records. We speak directly with previous captains and chief engineers – not just provided references. We assess leadership style, communication skills, and cultural fit through structured interviews. For senior positions, we may coordinate technical tests or system-specific evaluations. This thorough process typically takes 5-7 days but ensures you only interview genuinely qualified candidates.

Chief Engineer compensation varies significantly based on experience level, responsibilities, location, and specific requirements of the role. During our initial consultation, we provide detailed salary benchmarking tailored to your specific situation and market conditions. This ensures your offer is competitive enough to attract quality candidates while remaining aligned with current market rates. We draw on our extensive placement experience to advise on the full compensation package including benefits, accommodation, and other factors that influence candidate decisions.

Yes, we guide you through visa and work permit requirements for your Chief Engineer. We identify candidates with existing visa status for key jurisdictions like Schengen, USA, or Caribbean nations. Our consultants advise on sponsorship requirements, processing timelines, and associated costs. We coordinate with specialized maritime immigration lawyers when needed and help prepare required documentation. While we don't process visas directly, our experience ensures smooth navigation of immigration requirements, preventing delays in your Chief Engineer's start date.

Absolutely. We maintain a global network with particularly strong coverage in major yachting hubs: Mediterranean (Antibes, Monaco, Palma), Caribbean (Fort Lauderdale, Antigua), and Northern Europe. We source location-specific candidates who understand local regulations, have established supplier relationships, and can join quickly. For remote locations or specific cruising areas, we identify engineers with relevant experience – whether that's Pacific crossing expertise, Arctic operations knowledge, or familiarity with particular shipyard locations for upcoming refits.

Emergency replacements are our specialty. We maintain a database of immediately available Chief Engineers, including those between contracts or on rotation leave. For urgent needs, we can present qualified candidates within 24 hours and potentially have someone onboard within 72-96 hours. Our record is placing a Chief Engineer in 5 days from initial call to joining the vessel. We coordinate expedited vetting, fast-track reference checks, and arrange immediate travel. Our network includes freelance Chiefs who can provide temporary coverage while we source permanent solutions.

Simply contact us via phone (+1 954 523 8787) or email for a confidential consultation. The initial 15-30 minute discussion covers your vessel specifications, engineering team structure, technical priorities, and timing requirements. We'll explain our process, provide salary guidance, and outline realistic timelines. There's no obligation and no cost for this consultation. If you decide to proceed, we immediately activate our search and commit to delivering qualified candidates within 24-48 hours. Most clients are reviewing Chief Engineer profiles within two days of first contact.

Yes, we offer guidance on creating attractive long-term packages for Chief Engineers. Beyond placement, we advise on competitive compensation reviews, professional development opportunities, and rotation structures that promote retention. We can benchmark your current package against market standards, suggest performance bonus structures, and recommend training investments that demonstrate commitment to your Chief's career growth. Our goal is not just successful placement but long-term stability in this critical position. Many clients consult us annually on retention strategies, preventing turnover before it occurs.

Successful placements result from matching technical competencies with cultural fit and career aspirations. The best matches occur when vessel complexity aligns with the engineer's experience level – neither overwhelmed nor under-challenged. Clear communication about rotation expectations, budget authority, and reporting structures prevents misunderstandings. Competitive compensation packages including professional development opportunities encourage retention. Most importantly, mutual respect between captain and chief engineer creates stable, long-term working relationships. Our detailed matching process considers all these factors, which explains our 94% one-year retention rate.