Hire a Second Engineer in 24 Hours
Pre-vetted marine engineering professionals from our exclusive network. No upfront fees.
Why Clients Choose Us for Second Engineer Recruitment
24 Hour Shortlist
Receive qualified candidates within 1 business day
Replacement Guarantee
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Pre-Vetted Candidates
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Lighthouse Careers has been connecting luxury yachts with exceptional Second Engineers for over 20 years, building an unmatched network of pre-vetted marine engineering professionals. We understand that finding a technically competent Second Engineer who also fits your yacht's culture and operational standards is challenging in today's competitive market. Our specialized recruitment process delivers shortlisted candidates within 24-48 hours, with no upfront costs and a comprehensive replacement guarantee. Let us handle the complexity of finding your ideal Second Engineer while you focus on vessel operations.
About the Second Engineer Role
Understanding the Second Engineer Role in Luxury Yachting
The Second Engineer serves as the right hand to the Chief Engineer, playing a pivotal role in maintaining the complex systems that keep luxury yachts operating at peak performance. In an industry where technical failures can cost thousands per day in lost charter revenue and damage yacht reputation, the Second Engineer's expertise directly impacts both operational efficiency and guest satisfaction.
What Sets Exceptional Second Engineers Apart
While many engineers possess the basic qualifications, exceptional Second Engineers combine deep technical knowledge with the soft skills essential for yacht life. They anticipate problems before they occur, maintain meticulous records, and communicate technical issues clearly to non-technical crew. The best Second Engineers understand that their role extends beyond the engine room—they're custodians of the owner's investment and enablers of the guest experience.
Outstanding Second Engineers demonstrate initiative in implementing preventive maintenance programs, show creativity in sourcing parts in remote locations, and maintain composure during critical system failures. They balance the demands of routine maintenance with emergency response, all while working harmoniously in the confined environment of a yacht.
The Strategic Impact on Yacht Operations
A skilled Second Engineer can reduce annual maintenance costs by 15-30% through proactive maintenance and efficient parts management. They minimize downtime during peak charter seasons, ensure compliance with increasingly stringent regulations, and often serve as the technical liaison with shipyards during refits. Their expertise in modern yacht systems—from watermakers to stabilizers—directly affects charter reviews and repeat bookings.
Why Specialized Recruitment Matters
The superyacht industry's unique demands require a recruitment approach that goes beyond matching certifications to job descriptions. Yacht-specific experience matters: understanding the nuances of different yacht builders, familiarity with common systems like MTU engines or Quantum stabilizers, and experience with the specific challenges of maintaining vessels that combine hotel-level amenities with ocean-crossing capability.
Cultural fit is equally critical. Second Engineers must adapt to international crews, respect hierarchy while showing initiative, and maintain professional boundaries in a live-aboard environment. The wrong hire can disrupt crew dynamics and compromise safety, making thorough vetting essential.
Career Progression and Market Dynamics
The path from Second Engineer to Chief Engineer typically requires 3-5 years in position, with many professionals using rotational positions to gain experience across different yacht types and systems. The current market shows strong demand for Second Engineers with experience on yachts over 60 meters, particularly those with hybrid propulsion or advanced automation systems. Career-minded Second Engineers often pursue additional certifications in specialized systems, positioning themselves for senior roles on larger yachts where technical complexity—and compensation—increase significantly.
Key Responsibilities
Core Responsibilities of a Second Engineer
Daily Technical Operations
The Second Engineer's day begins with comprehensive machinery space rounds, checking all systems from main engines to HVAC plants. They monitor engine parameters, fluid levels, and system pressures, documenting findings in detailed logs that serve both operational and regulatory purposes. This includes managing the Planned Maintenance System (PMS), ensuring all equipment receives timely service according to manufacturer specifications and class requirements.
Maintenance Leadership
Second Engineers coordinate and execute preventive maintenance schedules, often managing a team of junior engineers and deckhands during technical projects. They oversee oil changes, filter replacements, and system overhauls, ensuring work meets yacht standards without disrupting guest activities. This includes scheduling contractor visits, supervising their work, and maintaining the spare parts inventory to prevent critical shortages.
Systems Management
Modern yachts feature complex integrated systems requiring specialized knowledge. Second Engineers manage watermakers producing 20,000+ liters daily, maintain hydraulic systems operating passerelles and tender cranes, and troubleshoot automation systems controlling everything from lighting to stabilization. They must understand the interconnections between systems—how generator loads affect air conditioning performance or how watermaker operation impacts overall power management.
Regulatory Compliance
Second Engineers maintain critical documentation for flag state and class society inspections. They ensure oil record books are accurately completed, manage hazardous waste disposal in compliance with MARPOL regulations, and prepare technical areas for surveys. This includes maintaining certificates for all machinery, updating technical drawings, and ensuring safety equipment meets current standards.
Emergency Response
When systems fail, Second Engineers lead the technical response. Whether addressing a watermaker breakdown before a charter, managing generator failures at sea, or coordinating emergency repairs in remote anchorages, they must diagnose problems quickly and implement solutions under pressure. They maintain emergency equipment including firefighting systems, bilge alarms, and backup power systems, conducting regular drills to ensure readiness.
Bridge Team Support
During passages, Second Engineers support bridge operations by monitoring propulsion systems, managing fuel transfers to maintain vessel trim, and ensuring all navigation-critical systems remain operational. They coordinate with the bridge during maneuvering operations, prepared to respond instantly to telegraph orders or emergency situations.
Qualifications & Skills
Essential Qualifications and Skills for Second Engineers
Mandatory Certifications
Professional qualification requirements vary by flag state and yacht size. For yachts over 3,000 GT, an STCW III/2 Chief Engineer license is typically required for Second Engineer positions. Smaller yachts may accept Y3 or AEC certifications. All positions require valid STCW Basic Safety Training, including updates for Security Awareness and Designated Security Duties. Medical certificates (ENG1 or equivalent) must be current, with many employers requiring recent certification dates.
Technical Competencies
Second Engineers must demonstrate proficiency across multiple technical domains. Engine expertise should cover common yacht propulsion systems: MTU, MAN, and Caterpillar engines, including electronic control systems. Electrical knowledge must encompass three-phase power systems, shore power connections, and generator synchronization. Experience with watermakers (especially Idromar and HEM systems), sewage treatment plants, and HVAC systems is essential. Hydraulic system knowledge becomes critical on yachts with complex deck equipment.
Experience Requirements
Entry-level Second Engineers typically bring 2-3 years of yacht experience as Third Engineer or equivalent shore-based experience. Mid-level positions require 3-5 years in progressively responsible yacht engineering roles, ideally including shipyard periods. Senior Second Engineer roles on 70m+ yachts demand 5+ years of experience, including time on similar-sized vessels with comparable system complexity.
Critical Soft Skills
Technical expertise alone doesn't guarantee success. Exceptional Second Engineers demonstrate clear communication skills, explaining technical issues to non-technical crew and guests when needed. They show cultural adaptability, working effectively in multinational crews. Problem-solving abilities extend beyond technical challenges to include parts sourcing in remote locations and managing contractor relationships. Leadership skills become essential when supervising junior engineers or coordinating with deck crew during technical operations.
Specialized Knowledge Areas
Modern yachts increasingly feature specialized systems requiring additional expertise. Hybrid propulsion experience becomes valuable as more yachts adopt eco-friendly technologies. IT skills are increasingly important with integrated bridge systems and vessel-wide networks. Knowledge of water treatment systems, including reverse osmosis troubleshooting, sets candidates apart. Experience with specific yacht builders (Feadship, Lürssen, Benetti) can be decisive for certain positions.
Red Flags in Candidates
Employers should be cautious of engineers with excessive job changes without career progression, gaps in certification renewals, or reluctance to provide detailed references. Limited shipyard experience may indicate gaps in refit management skills. Inflexibility about rotation schedules or living conditions suggests poor fit for yacht life. Candidates who focus solely on salary without asking about vessel specifications or crew dynamics often struggle with the comprehensive demands of the role.
Salary Overview
Second Engineer Salary Guide and Compensation
Global Salary Ranges by Experience
Second Engineer compensation varies significantly based on yacht size, location, and rotation schedule. Entry-level positions on 40-60m motor yachts typically offer €4,000-5,500 monthly, while experienced Second Engineers on 60-80m yachts command €5,500-7,000. Large yacht positions (80m+) can reach €7,000-9,000 monthly, with some ultra-prime positions exceeding these ranges. Sailing yachts generally offer 10-15% less than comparable motor yacht positions, though specialized performance sailing yacht experience can command premiums.
Rotation and Schedule Impacts
Rotational positions typically offer higher monthly salaries to compensate for time off. Standard 2:2 rotations (two months on, two months off) usually include 15-20% salary premiums over permanent positions. Some yachts offer 3:3 or 4:2 rotations, with compensation adjusted accordingly. Permanent positions may include additional leave allowances, typically 38-45 days annually, affecting the overall compensation package.
Benefits and Additional Compensation
Beyond base salary, Second Engineers typically receive comprehensive benefits. Standard packages include flights to and from the vessel, full medical insurance, and uniform provisions. Many positions include performance bonuses ranging from one to three months' salary, often tied to successful charters or owner satisfaction. Training allowances of €1,500-3,000 annually support ongoing certification requirements. Some positions offer pension contributions, particularly on Northern European flagged vessels.
Geographic and Seasonal Variations
Location significantly impacts compensation. Caribbean-based positions during winter season may include hardship allowances for remote locations. Mediterranean-based yachts often provide more stable schedules but may require unpaid yard periods. Pacific or expedition yacht positions typically offer 20-30% premiums due to remote operations and extended passages. Dual-season yachts (Mediterranean summer, Caribbean winter) often provide the most attractive overall packages.
Lighthouse's Salary Benchmarking Support
Our recruitment team provides detailed salary benchmarking based on current market conditions, yacht specifications, and rotation requirements. We analyze recent placements, industry surveys, and client feedback to ensure competitive offers that attract top talent while respecting budget constraints. Our consultants help structure packages that balance base salary, benefits, and incentives to create compelling offers in a competitive market. This expertise helps prevent costly hiring mistakes from over or under-pricing positions.
Our Hiring Process
The Lighthouse Hiring Process for Second Engineers
Step 1: Initial Consultation (15-30 minutes)
Your dedicated recruitment consultant begins with a comprehensive needs analysis. We discuss your yacht's specifications, including engine types, auxiliary systems, and any specialized equipment requiring specific experience. We explore team dynamics, rotation schedules, and upcoming yard periods or cruising plans that might affect the role. This conversation establishes salary parameters, benefit packages, and any unique requirements like specific manufacturer training or language skills. We'll also understand your timeline and any flexibility in start dates.
Step 2: Targeted Search Activation
Within hours of our consultation, we activate our search across multiple channels. Our database of 15,000+ pre-vetted yacht crew is filtered for Second Engineers matching your specifications. We reach out to passive candidates currently in similar roles who might consider a move for the right opportunity. Our network of chief engineers and captains provides referrals for engineers they've worked with successfully. This multi-pronged approach ensures we identify both active job seekers and exceptional engineers who aren't actively looking but would consider your opportunity.
Step 3: Shortlist Delivery (24-48 hours)
You'll receive a curated shortlist of 3-5 candidates, each presented with a detailed profile covering their technical qualifications, yacht-specific experience, and cultural fit indicators. Our summaries highlight relevant experience with your yacht's systems, any specialized training, and rotation preferences. We include our consultant's assessment notes and any concerns or standout factors we've identified during screening.
Step 4: Interview Coordination
We manage all interview logistics, coordinating across time zones and rotation schedules. Initial video interviews are scheduled at mutually convenient times, with technical interview guides provided if needed. For final candidates, we can arrange in-person meetings at yacht locations or during industry events. We brief candidates on your yacht's culture and expectations while providing you with targeted interview questions based on each candidate's profile.
Step 5: Comprehensive Vetting
Our seven-step vetting process intensifies for finalists. Reference checks go beyond basic employment verification—we speak with chief engineers and captains about technical competence, problem-solving abilities, and crew dynamics. Background checks verify certifications, flag state records, and any maritime incidents. We coordinate technical assessments if specific system knowledge is critical. Document verification ensures all certificates are current and meet your flag state requirements.
Step 6: Offer Support and Onboarding
We facilitate offer negotiations, ensuring terms are clearly understood by both parties. Our team assists with contract preparation, visa applications if required, and travel arrangements. We maintain communication through the joining process, addressing any concerns that arise. Post-placement, we check in at 30, 60, and 90-day intervals to ensure successful integration and address any adjustment challenges early.
Why Choose Lighthouse
Why Choose Lighthouse for Second Engineer Recruitment
Specialized Expertise in Yacht Engineering Recruitment
Our recruiters aren't generalists—they're specialists who understand the technical nuances of yacht engineering. We know the difference between experience on a Feadship versus a Benetti, why watermaker expertise matters in the Caribbean, and which certifications actually indicate competence versus mere compliance. This expertise means we ask the right questions during screening, identifying engineers who can handle your yacht's specific systems and operational demands.
Risk-Free Success-Fee Model
Our confidence in delivering exceptional candidates is reflected in our business model. You pay nothing until you hire—no retainers, no advertising fees, no shortlist charges. This aligns our success with yours, motivating us to present only candidates who genuinely match your requirements. If a placement doesn't work out, our replacement guarantee ensures you're not left short-handed during critical operational periods.
Unmatched Network Access
Twenty years of yacht crew recruitment has built a network extending beyond active job seekers. We maintain relationships with engineers throughout their careers, knowing who might be ready for new challenges. Chief Engineers refer their best former seconds. Captains recommend engineers who've impressed them. This network, combined with our reputation for ethical recruitment, gives us access to candidates who don't respond to job advertisements.
Quality Through Rigorous Process
Our seven-step vetting process eliminates the guesswork from hiring. Beyond verifying certifications, we assess problem-solving abilities through scenario-based discussions. Reference checks probe specific technical competencies and soft skills. We understand that a Second Engineer who excels on a busy charter yacht might struggle on a private vessel with different operational tempo. This nuanced matching reduces turnover and ensures long-term success.
Speed Without Compromise
Delivering shortlists within 24-48 hours doesn't mean cutting corners. Our established processes, comprehensive database, and dedicated team enable rapid response without sacrificing quality. We understand that engineering vacancies can impact yacht operations, charter schedules, and crew morale. Our speed helps minimize these disruptions while ensuring you have choices among qualified candidates.
Proven Success and Ongoing Support
Our 300+ annual placements and 500+ satisfied clients demonstrate consistent results. But our commitment extends beyond placement. We remain available to both client and candidate throughout the integration period, addressing challenges before they become problems. This ongoing support contributes to our industry-leading retention rates and explains why 80% of our business comes from repeat clients and referrals.
How It Works
Our streamlined process gets you qualified Second Engineer candidates fast.
Share Your Requirements
Tell us about your household or yacht, the role you need filled, and your specific requirements.
Receive Matched Candidates
We search our network and present a shortlist of pre-vetted candidates within 24 hours.
Interview & Hire
Meet your candidates, conduct interviews, and make your selection with our full support.
Learn More About Hiring a Second Engineer
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Trusted by Industry Leaders
Hear from clients and professionals who've worked with us
“I wanted to say a few words of thanks for your all your time and efforts over the past few years. You and your team has always been a massive help in trying to help find us the right candidate for the right job in this ever expanding and delicate industry.”
“I've had the pleasure of knowing Milica, and using her recruitment services for many years. Her attention to what I'm looking for in a crew member, fast response and flexibility and understanding of feedback has always impressed me.”
“Milica is always my first call when looking for new crew. She helped me get my first command 3 years ago and ever since has supplied me with great candidates for all positions onboard.”
“Working with Lighthouse has been a game-changer for our estate staffing. Their understanding of the unique requirements for private household positions is unmatched.”
“The team at Lighthouse found us an exceptional House Manager who has transformed how our properties operate. Their vetting process gave us complete confidence in our hire.”
“Professional, discreet, and incredibly efficient. Lighthouse understood exactly what we needed and delivered outstanding candidates within days.”
Trusted by Leading Yacht Owners & Management Companies
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about hiring a Second Engineer
1What's included in your recruitment service?
Our comprehensive recruitment service includes an initial consultation to understand your exact requirements, access to our exclusive network of pre-vetted Second 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 Second Engineer starts work. Our replacement guarantee provides additional security, offering a free replacement if the placement doesn't work out within the guarantee period.
2How long does the hiring process take?
We deliver your first shortlist of pre-vetted Second Engineer candidates within 24-48 hours of our initial consultation. The complete hiring timeline typically spans 2-4 weeks: 1-2 days for shortlist delivery, 3-7 days for initial interviews, 3-5 days for reference checks and final interviews, and 2-5 days for offer negotiation and acceptance. Urgent requirements can be expedited—we've successfully placed Second Engineers within 7 days when vessels faced operational pressures. The timeline can extend if candidates need to give notice to current employers or obtain visas.
3What qualifications should a Second Engineer have?
Second Engineer qualifications vary by yacht size and flag state requirements. Minimum certifications typically include an STCW III/2 license for yachts over 3,000 GT, or Y3/AEC for smaller vessels. All candidates must hold valid STCW Basic Safety Training, Security Awareness, and medical certificates (ENG1 or equivalent). Beyond certifications, strong Second Engineers bring 3-5 years of yacht-specific experience, familiarity with common yacht systems (MTU/MAN engines, watermakers, HVAC), and proven ability to manage maintenance programs. Additional qualifications like High Voltage certification or specific manufacturer training can be valuable for certain positions.
4What is your replacement guarantee?
Our replacement guarantee provides peace of mind for your engineering hire. If a placed Second Engineer leaves your employment within the guarantee period (typically 90 days), we'll source a replacement at no additional cost. This includes conducting a new search, vetting candidates, and supporting the hiring process through to successful placement. The guarantee reflects our confidence in our matching process—less than 5% of our placements require replacement. Terms are clearly outlined in our service agreement, with the guarantee period starting from the candidate's first day aboard.
5How do you vet Second Engineer candidates?
Our seven-step vetting process ensures only qualified, reliable Second Engineers reach your shortlist. We verify all certifications directly with issuing authorities and check flag state records for any incidents. Technical interviews assess system knowledge through practical scenarios. We conduct minimum three references, speaking directly with previous Chief Engineers and Captains about technical competence, work ethic, and crew compatibility. Background checks reveal any criminal history or maritime violations. For senior positions, we may arrange technical assessments on specific systems. This comprehensive approach has resulted in our industry-leading placement success rate.
6What salary should I expect to pay a Second Engineer?
Second 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.
7Do you help with visa/work permits?
Yes, we provide comprehensive visa and work permit support as part of our service. Our team guides both you and the candidate through requirements based on yacht flag state and cruising areas. We maintain updated information on visa requirements for major yachting nations and can recommend specialized maritime immigration lawyers when needed. We help compile required documentation, provide letter templates, and coordinate with port agents for crew joining arrangements. While we don't act as immigration lawyers, our experience with yacht crew mobility helps streamline the process and avoid common pitfalls that delay crew joining.
8Can you find Second Engineer candidates for specific locations?
Absolutely. Our global network includes Second Engineers currently based in all major yachting hubs—Mediterranean, Caribbean, USA, and Pacific regions. We can source local candidates to minimize relocation costs or identify engineers willing to relocate for the right opportunity. For remote locations or expedition vessels, we specifically target engineers with relevant experience who understand the challenges of limited shore support. We also consider visa status and work rights for your intended cruising areas, ensuring candidates can legally work throughout your planned itinerary without restrictions.
9What if I need to hire urgently?
Emergency recruitment is a Lighthouse specialty. When operational needs demand immediate action, we activate our rapid response protocol. This includes immediately contacting available candidates in our network, reaching out to engineers currently between contracts, and leveraging our relationships to identify candidates who can join quickly. We've successfully placed Second Engineers within 48-72 hours for critical situations. Our consultant team can work across time zones to maintain momentum, conducting evening or weekend interviews if needed. Urgent placements still undergo essential vetting—we accelerate the process without compromising quality.
10How do I get started?
Starting your Second Engineer search takes just one phone call or email. Contact us through our website or call directly, and we'll connect you with a specialist engineering recruiter within hours. The initial consultation takes 15-30 minutes, during which we'll discuss your yacht specifications, team structure, and ideal candidate profile. No contracts or payments are required to begin—we start searching immediately after our briefing. Most clients receive their first shortlist of qualified Second Engineers within 48 hours. From there, we guide you through interviews, vetting, and hiring to ensure a successful placement.
11Do you recruit Second Engineers for both motor yachts and sailing yachts?
Yes, we recruit Second Engineers for all yacht types, understanding the distinct requirements of each. Motor yacht engineers need expertise in twin engine installations, complex hydraulic systems, and high-power electrical systems. Sailing yacht Second Engineers require knowledge of sail handling hydraulics, rig loads affecting engineering systems, and often more compact engine room management. We maintain separate candidate pools for each specialization while recognizing that many engineers successfully transition between types. Our consultants understand these nuances, ensuring candidates match your yacht's specific operational profile.
12What makes a great Second Engineer beyond technical skills?
Exceptional Second Engineers combine technical expertise with crucial soft skills that determine success in the yacht environment. They demonstrate proactive communication, keeping the Chief Engineer informed while building positive relationships across all departments. Cultural adaptability allows them to work effectively in multinational crews. Strong problem-solving extends beyond technical issues to creative parts sourcing and contractor management. The best Second Engineers show leadership potential, mentoring junior crew while respecting yacht hierarchy. They maintain meticulous records, understand budget constraints, and adapt to the yacht's operational tempo—whether intensive charter or relaxed private use.
Our Placement Guarantee
We're so confident in our matching process that we offer a replacement guarantee. If your placed Second Engineer doesn't meet expectations within the guarantee period, we'll find a replacement at no additional cost.
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