Dynamic Positioning Operator

Role Overview

The Dynamic Positioning Operator (DPO) acts as the Junior DP watchstander, learning and operating under the guidance of the Senior DPO. This role is critical in maintaining the vessel's position during operations and navigation, ensuring the continuous monitoring of all systems essential for Dynamic Positioning (DP).

Key Responsibilities

• Hold responsibility for keeping the vessel on station during operations and monitor position while underway.
• Monitor all critical DP systems continuously while on the DP desk.
• Serve as Navigational Watch Officer when relieved from DP duties.
• Maintain communication with the rig floor, ROV, and Engine control room to stay fully aware of current operational and power system statuses.
• Keep accurate and timely records, forms, logs, and checklists.
• Follow procedural manuals including FMEA, WSOG, DP Operations Manual, Standing Orders, and Night Orders.
• Support DP system maintenance, including position reference components as needed.
• Ensure safety and environmental compliance throughout operations.
• Assist with vessel operations such as deck duties, ballast control, and power management systems.
• Use manual and joystick controls to manage vessel positioning.
• Monitor and prioritize DP system alarms, coordinating necessary technical support.
• Support navigation and watch duties during vessel transit.
• Maintain awareness of operational weather conditions and adapt accordingly.
• Train and instruct assigned personnel and understudy the Sr. DPO.
• Maintain marine navigation publications and charts up-to-date.
• Participate in voyage planning and assist rig supervisory personnel as needed.
• Assist in maintenance and repair of DP systems, ensuring full operational readiness before arrival on location.
• Keep detailed daily and weekly DP system operational logs and reports.
• Implement and promote safety policies, lead firefighting and emergency responses, conduct safety training, and ensure adherence to Hazard Identification and Live Safe codes.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Marine Transportation preferred.
• Minimum of 1 year experience on DP vessels in an industrial marine environment.
• Must hold an Unlimited DPO certificate issued by the Nautical Institute.
• USCG Unlimited Tonnage Any Oceans Third Mate's License or equivalent qualification required.
• Completion of all necessary position training within designated timeframes.
• Proficiency in office software, dynamic positioning control systems, and other related technical systems.

Technical Expertise

• Understand principles of DP control systems, position reference systems (satellite and acoustic), thruster performance, and vessel power plant operations.
• Knowledge of emergency response procedures and software relevant to DP operations.
• Ability to operate and manage DP system hardware and software, radars, radios, and safety systems (fire and gas).
• Basic understanding of drilling operations, well control, Emergency Disconnect Sequences, Blowout Preventor operations, and ROV operations.
• Familiarity with calibration methods, failure modes of key sensors, and DP/Vessel Management System alarms and redundancy.

Additional Information

• The DPO does not have supervisory duties.

Health, Safety, and Environmental Responsibilities

• Implement and uphold company safety policies and procedures.
• Identify and correct unsafe behaviors and conditions promptly.
• Lead firefighting and damage control efforts from deck level and train firefighting teams.
• Responsible for compliance with government regulations and internal Management System requirements.
• Participate actively in safety meetings and promote a zero-incident workplace culture.
• Perform safety-critical tasks and incorporate job safety analysis in daily activities.