We are recruiting for an experienced Captain to join a leading dredging and marine construction contractor, commanding a multicat vessel that supports dredging, towing, anchor handling, crane operations, and marine construction projects. Reporting to the Vessel Manager and working closely with project management, the Captain is responsible for the safe navigation, operation, and overall management of the vessel while leading the onboard crew and ensuring compliance with all maritime regulations and company safety standards. This is a hands-on leadership role requiring extensive experience operating workboats in demanding marine construction environments and the ability to live aboard the vessel during rotational assignments.
Key Responsibilities:
- Safely command and operate a multicat vessel in support of dredging and marine construction projects.
- Lead, supervise, and develop the vessel crew while promoting a strong culture of safety and operational excellence.
- Oversee daily vessel operations, including navigation, towing, anchor handling, crane operations, fuel transfers, and cargo movements.
- Coordinate vessel activities supporting dredges, barges, and other marine construction equipment.
- Ensure the vessel, machinery, navigational systems, and onboard equipment are properly maintained and operational.
- Plan and execute vessel movements, docking, undocking, and operations in confined waterways and shallow water environments.
- Maintain vessel stability during lifting, towing, dredging support, and other marine construction activities.
- Manage vessel documentation, bridge logs, inspections, certifications, and compliance with USCG and other regulatory requirements.
- Conduct safety meetings, emergency drills, Job Safety Analyses (JSAs), and ensure all crew members are trained in emergency response procedures.
- Act as the primary liaison between the vessel, project management, shore-based operations, and external stakeholders to support successful project execution.
Requirements:
- Valid USCG Master of Towing Vessels endorsement or equivalent credential appropriate for the vessel and operating route.
- Minimum of 5 years’ experience as a Captain operating commercial workboats, multicats, tugboats, or similar marine construction vessels.
- Strong knowledge of towing operations, anchor handling, dredging support, crane operations, and marine construction activities.
- Experience leading vessel crews, mentoring personnel, and managing day-to-day vessel operations.
- Thorough understanding of USCG regulations, vessel inspections, safety management systems, and maritime compliance requirements.
- Strong leadership, communication, organizational, and decision-making skills in dynamic operational environments.
- Ability to maintain vessel certifications, crew documentation, and operational records.
- Ability to work effectively under pressure while managing multiple operational priorities.
- Willingness to live aboard the vessel and work rotational schedules, including 21-day hitches at remote project locations.
- Commitment to maintaining the highest standards of safety, professionalism, and operational performance.
Does this role match your skillset? Apply today!
Darwin Recruitment is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.
Tyler Horton