Jimmy Ferris
Fort Lauderdale,FL
Summary
Experienced electrician turned Chief Engineer in the yachting industry since 2009. Demonstrating leadership as Chief Engineer since 2014, prioritizing hands-on management and unwavering commitment to excellence. Exceptional critical thinking abilities and proactive mindset ensure smooth operation and maintenance of all engineering systems onboard. Dedicated with work standards, enhancing performance, and upholding safety and efficiency standards while fostering strong crew relationships. Engineering expert recognized for driving results through high standards, innovative solutions, collaborative teamwork, and strategic planning.
Overview
16
16
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Temporary Chief Engineer
M/Y Champagne Seas - 50m Trinity 2012
02.2025 - 05.2025
- Served as Temporary Chief Engineer on a vessel in critically poor condition, overseeing a comprehensive overhaul of all major engineering systems to restore functionality, safety, and reliability. Led diagnostics, repairs, and upgrades across propulsion, mooring equipment, generators, fuel systems, electrical, and auxiliary systems, implementing urgent corrective actions to bring the vessel back to operational standards. Coordinated closely with Captain, contractors and management on a tight timeline in preparation for upcoming season.
Chief Engineer
M/Y Hospitality – 50m Westport 2011
12.2017 - 11.2024
- Led the engineering department on a high-performing, busy charter vessel, ensuring zero mechanical failures impacting operations for over six years. Strong focus on safety, compliance, and seamless vessel performance to deliver exceptional charter experiences. Played a key role in a major 10-year yard period, overseeing critical upgrades, including shore power systems, AV/IT enhancements, and running gear improvements and upgrades.
Chief Engineer
M/Y DaVinci – 50m Mangusta 2017
02.2017 - 11.2017
- I became involved with the vessel during its final construction phase, participating in flag state and class surveys. I established a comprehensive maintenance program, including procedures and inventory management, in preparation for a busy Mediterranean private and charter season. Proactive in preventive maintenance, troubleshooting, and system optimization.
2nd Engineer
M/Y Global – 74m Lurssen 2006
04.2016 - 12.2016
- During the period from April to December, Several major projects were conducted at the Lurssen shipyard, including a seven-meter aft extension and a large audiovisual upgrade. These projects were all mostly managed internally. Also involving three full generator rebuilds and main engine overhauls, ensuring reliability and efficiency.
Chief Engineer
M/Y Aquavita – 50m Westport 2009
03.2014 - 09.2015
- Delivered two highly successful charter seasons in the Caribbean and Mediterranean, maintaining seamless operations under demanding conditions. Led a complete AV system upgrade, transitioning from Crestron to Savant for enhanced onboard entertainment and automation.
2nd ETO
M/Y Constellation – 80m Oceanco 1999
04.2013 - 03.2014
- Major electrical upgrade projects undertaken internally, Complete system testing. Full apple integration with a Creston operating system. Stood engineering watches underway.
2nd Engineer
M/Y Lady M II – 50m Hakvoort 1994
01.2011 - 10.2012
- Two major yard refits during this period, Repair/break down and planned maintenance of all mechanical equipment. An extensive AV/IT upgrade of which I was heavily involved with, General 2nd engineer duties.
2nd Engineer
M/Y Emelina - 52m Codecassa 2009
11.2009 - 11.2010
- Fault finding electrical problems onboard, Planned maintenance, Connection/Disconnection of shore power. Responsible for all AV/IT systems, Relief chief engineer for three months.
Education
Electrotechnology Systems Electrician
Yeronga Institute of TAFE
12-2008
Skills
- Electrical Troubleshooting
- Mechanical Troubleshooting
- AV / IT
- Project Management
Certification
- March 2017 MCA Y3 COC
- August 2014 MTU 4000 Engine Course
- February 2014 MCA Y4 COC
- October 2009 Approved Engine Course
- November 2008 Electrotechnology Systems Electrician
Timeline
Temporary Chief Engineer
M/Y Champagne Seas - 50m Trinity 2012
02.2025 - 05.2025
Chief Engineer
M/Y Hospitality – 50m Westport 2011
12.2017 - 11.2024
Chief Engineer
M/Y DaVinci – 50m Mangusta 2017
02.2017 - 11.2017
2nd Engineer
M/Y Global – 74m Lurssen 2006
04.2016 - 12.2016
Chief Engineer
M/Y Aquavita – 50m Westport 2009
03.2014 - 09.2015
2nd ETO
M/Y Constellation – 80m Oceanco 1999
04.2013 - 03.2014
2nd Engineer
M/Y Lady M II – 50m Hakvoort 1994
01.2011 - 10.2012
2nd Engineer
M/Y Emelina - 52m Codecassa 2009
11.2009 - 11.2010
Electrotechnology Systems Electrician
Yeronga Institute of TAFE
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