Tug Chief Officer

Job Responsibilities:

• Act as the second in command aboard the tug, supporting the Master with all vessel operations, navigation, and crew management.
• Safely execute day-to-day marine operations such as towing, docking, undocking, and assisting with vessel mooring operations in accordance with established procedures and international standards.
• Oversee and participate in the planning, coordination, and supervision of all deck activities, ensuring safety and operational readiness.
• Ensure that the deck crew operates in compliance with safety procedures, maritime regulations, and the International Safety Management (ISM) Code.
• Supervise cargo operations, making sure proper load and ballast distribution is maintained during towage, fuel transfers, or port entry operations.
• Monitor and maintain safety and firefighting equipment, ensuring systems are operational and accessible at all times.
• Conduct regular emergency drills for fire, man-overboard, abandon ship, and other emergencies, ensuring the crew is trained and prepared.
• Oversee proper upkeep of deck logs, voyage data, reports, and documentation to ensure compliance with legal, regulatory, and contract requirements.
• Implement the routine maintenance, cleaning, and testing of all deck equipment, including mooring winches, hawsers, and towing gear.
• Coordinate with the Chief Engineer to ensure vessel operational readiness and maintain close communication regarding the mechanical and technical status of the vessel.
• Assist in the navigation of the tug to ensure safe passage, including maintaining situational awareness while underway, at anchor, or during ship-to-ship activities.
• Serve as the primary safety officer for onboard deck operations, identifying and mitigating risks while monitoring compliance with environmental and pollution prevention standards.
• Manage inventories of safety, navigation, and operational equipment, coordinating resupply as required.
• Step into the role of acting Captain if required, in the absence of the Master.
• Collaborate and liaise effectively with crewmembers, port authorities, and other stakeholders involved in towing and dockside operations.

Minimum Requirements:

• Valid certification as Chief Mate (unlimited) or equivalent license as required under STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers).
• 3–5 years of relevant experience onboard tugs or other similar vessels, including towage, docking, and port services.
• Strong knowledge of maritime rules and regulations, including ISM Code, SOLAS, MARPOL, and local/international navigation standards.
• Experience in rigging, deck operations, mooring, and towing procedures.
• Proficiency in managing emergency situations, including firefighting, man overboard recovery, and damage control.
• Strong leadership, team coordination, and organizational skills, including managing deck crews and work processes.
• Thorough knowledge of vessel safety management systems, pollution control, and environmental protocols.
• Ability to maintain detailed logs, records, and reports as required by company policy, flag-state, and port-state control inspections.
• Must be in possession of a valid passport and capable of traveling internationally.