The Executive Program Manager – Marine Mechanical Projects is responsible for leading strategic planning, execution, and delivery of complex, high-value marine mechanical engineering programs across new builds, retrofits, and modernization initiatives. This role ensures integration and performance of key shipboard mechanical systems—including propulsion, piping, HVAC, fuel and lube systems—within scope, schedule, and budget, while adhering to international marine standards and client expectations.
Oversee all aspects of project lifecycle management for marine mechanical system projects: from initiation and design through execution, testing, and commissioning.
Develop and implement program strategies, schedules, budgets, and staffing plans.
Drive technical excellence in the design, integration, and installation of propulsion systems, chilled water and HVAC systems, ballast/bilge systems, fuel/lube oil systems, and associated mechanical assemblies.
Serve as the key liaison between clients, engineering teams, classification societies (ABS, DNV, NAVSEA, etc.), vendors, and shipyard operations.
Enforce quality assurance and safety standards across all project phases.
Lead project governance meetings, track KPIs, and provide executive-level reporting.
Manage risk identification and mitigation processes.
Supervise and mentor cross-disciplinary teams including engineers, planners, procurement, and QC/QA specialists.
Ensure contractual compliance, cost control, and delivery of project milestones.
Strategic Program Leadership:
Deliver multi-vessel or fleet-wide mechanical upgrades or newbuild programs.
Align program goals with corporate strategy and client objectives.
Marine Mechanical System Integration:
Oversee design reviews, material selection, and system layout for propulsion, HVAC, piping, and auxiliary systems.
Ensure mechanical systems meet marine classification and regulatory standards (ABS, IMO, USCG, SOLAS).
Engineering Oversight & Quality Control:
Coordinate technical reviews, factory acceptance testing (FAT), and shipboard commissioning.
Guide root-cause analysis and system performance troubleshooting.
Project Budgeting & Financial Control:
Manage project budgets >$10M, track cost variances, and implement cost-saving measures.
Negotiate contracts and manage vendor/subcontractor deliverables.
Risk & Compliance Management:
Proactively address risks related to schedule, design flaws, vendor delays, or regulatory changes.
Maintain compliance with NAVSEA standards (if applicable), OEM specs, and HSE protocols.
Client & Stakeholder Engagement:
Represent the program at senior-level reviews, design approvals, and milestone inspections.
Build long-term relationships with shipyards, naval clients, commercial operators, and classification societies.
Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Marine Engineering, or related discipline.
PMP certification or equivalent highly preferred.
15+ years of experience in marine engineering projects with at least 5 years at a senior or executive level.
Strong track record in program delivery for complex mechanical projects in shipbuilding, retrofits, or defense sector.
Deep understanding of marine systems architecture and integration.
Experience with regulatory compliance and standards (ABS, DNV, NAVSEA, IMO, SOLAS).
Proficiency with project management tools (Primavera, MS Project, SAP).
Excellent leadership, negotiation, and communication skills.
Naval shipbuilding or modernization experience.
Shipyard-based project leadership experience.
OEM or EPC contractor background in mechanical systems.
Exposure to international marine projects or offshore vessel programs.