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

About MV Louise Michel:

The MV Louise Michel is a 30-meter former French Navy vessel, customized for high-speed search and rescue (SAR) with a top speed of 28 knots. Purchased with proceeds from the sale of Banksy artwork, and distinctively decorated by the artist, the ship is operated by an international crew of activist rescue professionals. Named after the French anarchist Louise Michel, the project aims to bridge the gap between professional sea rescue and the principles of queer-feminism, anti-racism, and anti-fascism

We operate on a flat hierarchy and a vegan diet, actively resisting the discriminatory power structures of nationalism, racism, patriarchy, and capitalism. We believe that humanitarian aid alone is not the answer; as Louise Michel said, “Something besides charity is needed in order to provide bread for everyone.” Our mission is to uphold maritime law by rescuing anyone in peril without prejudice. We stand in solidarity with people on the move and fight for the universal right to freedom of movement.

The Mediterranean border is currently the deadliest in the world. While it may seem incredible that a private emergency vessel is necessary in one of Europe’s busiest waterways, the reality is stark: European states have retreated from their duty to respond to distress calls, often collaborating with armed forces to illegally prevent crossings. We work in direct response to these policies, refusing to stand by while people are left to drift or drown at sea.

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: 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.

Recruitment is managed through the organisation's official crewing channels; further application details are available via those channels.