RIVER - Nautical Instructor Engineer

Viking (NYSE: VIK) is a global leader in experiential travel with a fleet of more than 100 ships, exploring 21 rivers, five oceans and all seven continents. Designed for curious travelers with interests in science, history, culture and cuisine, Executive Chairman Torstein Hagen often says Viking offers experiences For The Thinking Person™. Viking has more than 450 awards to its name, including being rated #1 for Rivers and #1 for Oceans five years in a row by Condé Nast Traveler in the 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards. Viking is also rated a “World’s Best” by Travel + Leisure—no other travel company has simultaneously received such honors by both publications.

Please note that we can only accept applicants who are eligible to work in Switzerland or in possession of a valid work permit.

Role Description

• Reports to the Nautical Instructor Team Leader and delivers engineering training and assessments for Engineers and Second Engineers.
• Field-based role with up to 80% travel across Europe.
• Professional experience in inland navigation is essential; candidates with exclusively ocean-going, offshore, or deep-sea experience will not be considered.

Key Responsibilities

• Training Delivery

• Deliver classroom and onboard practical training for Engineers and Second Engineers according to Viking's training methodology and course curriculum. Training topics include, but are not limited to:

• Operation, monitoring, and maintenance of main engines, generators, propulsion and steering systems, electrical power distribution, and, where installed, hybrid and battery-electric systems.

• Auxiliary and hotel technical systems (HVAC, fresh water production, wastewater treatment, fuel and bunkering, bilge and ballast), detection and fixed firefighting systems, technical emergency procedures, and environmental and regulatory requirements for inland vessels (including ES-TRIN and CDNI).

• Ensure effective knowledge transfer through practical examples, troubleshooting exercises, and interactive learning methods; deliver webinars and virtual sessions as part of blended learning. Support selected sessions for nautical and hotel crew to strengthen cross-departmental understanding of technical systems.

• Assessment & Talent Programs

• Carry out standardized theoretical and practical assessments for newcomers, repeaters, and rank progression, with structured briefings and debriefings.

• Develop and maintain assessment criteria and question banks in line with Viking's standards; complete performance reports for each assessment and training.

• Create and maintain talent programs for engineering roles, including structured development paths from newcomer to Second Engineer and from Second Engineer to Engineer.

• Monitor trainee progress, evaluate promotion readiness, and maintain accurate training and assessment records.

• Training Material Development

• Prepare and update classroom training material, including presentations, handouts, exercises, and practical checklists.

• Develop digital and e-learning content.

• Translate technical documentation, manufacturer information, and operational procedures into structured, practical learning content.

• Coordination and Standards

• Coordinate a group of on-demand trainers; review and quality-check the engineering training they deliver and provide feedback to ensure consistent delivery to Viking's standard.

• Coordinate with Nautical Operations and the technical department on candidate selection, development needs, and placement; provide practical input based on observations from training and assessments.

Key Qualifications

• Qualified Engineer on inland passenger vessels, with previous experience on Viking ships, several years of experience in engine room operations on river cruise vessels; experience with hybrid or diesel-electric propulsion is an asset.
• Strong training, coaching, and assessment skills, ideally within a technical or nautical environment.
• Experience in preparing training material; experience with e-learning authoring tools (e.g., Articulate 360) is an asset.
• Strong observation, communication, and feedback skills.
• Completed technical education in marine, mechanical, or electrical engineering, preferably complemented by a Bachelor's degree or higher technical qualification.
• Fluent in German and English; French is an asset.
• Additional certification or teaching experience in technical training is an asset.
• Willingness to travel up to 80%.

Culture & Benefits

• Fast-growing and dynamic environment, a modern workspace, flexible working hours.

How To Apply Please apply via our website www.vikingcareers.com , including your CV in English and a one-page cover letter to introduce yourself and your interest for the role.

*Unsolicited submissions of candidates from agencies will not be considered*