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, customised 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 discriminatory power structures. 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. We work in direct response to state policies that fail to respond to distress calls, 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 role is responsible for the technical integrity of a high-speed SAR vessel while supporting life-saving humanitarian operations.

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 developing 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, and ensure 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 survivor care (food, water, and support).
• General seamanship: assist with mooring lines during berthing/unberthing and general ship maintenance.
• Coordination: work closely with the Master and Head of Operations and liaise 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: holders of non-German licences must obtain a Certificate of Equivalent Competency (Endorsement of Recognition) from the German BSH.
• 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 six months validity.
• Experience: longstanding engineering experience on board ships with 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 technical skills to life-saving humanitarian work.