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Work Pattern
Onshore / Hybrid
Reports To
Fleet Director / VP Marine Operations
Position Overview
The OSV Operations Manager oversees the operational performance, regulatory compliance, and commercial utilization of a fleet of offshore support vessels. This role is responsible for maximizing vessel availability and operational efficiency while maintaining the highest safety and environmental standards across the OSV portfolio.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage day-to-day operational performance of an OSV fleet (PSV, AHTS, ROVSV, DSV support) across multiple regions and contracts
- Oversee vessel maintenance planning, dry-docking schedules, and defect management to maximize vessel availability
- Ensure fleet compliance with ISM Code, class requirements, flag state regulations, and client-specific standards
- Manage vessel crewing plans, certification tracking, and competency assurance programs in coordination with crewing departments
- Develop and maintain vessel operating budgets, monitor cost performance, and implement cost optimization initiatives
- Liaise with charterers, ship managers, and class societies on operational and regulatory matters
- Conduct periodic vessel inspections and audits; implement corrective actions and continuous improvement programs
- Review and approve vessel voyage plans, risk assessments, and operational procedures
- Manage emergency response for vessel-related incidents; lead investigations and implement lessons learned
- Support commercial teams with vessel capability assessments, newbuilding specifications, and charter party negotiations
Qualifications
Required
- Education: Bachelor's degree in Maritime Studies, Nautical Science, or Naval Architecture; Master Mariner or Chief Engineer CoC preferred
- Certifications: BOSIET/FOET; ISM Internal Auditor qualification preferred; DPA qualification advantageous
- Experience: Minimum 8 years in offshore vessel operations including 3+ years in a fleet management or senior operational role; seagoing command experience strongly preferred
- Technical Skills: Fleet management and PMS systems; ISM/ISPS compliance; budget management; vessel performance monitoring; DP vessel operational knowledge
Preferred
- Experience managing mixed OSV fleets across multiple regions
- Charter party and marine warranty survey knowledge
- Offshore wind vessel management experience
- DPA (Designated Person Ashore) experience
Market Intelligence
$550–$850/day
Shortage Level: High
Key Skills Gap: Senior maritime professionals with both seagoing command experience AND commercial fleet management acumen; candidates tend to specialize in either operations or commercial, rarely both
Regions in Highest Demand: Middle East, Southeast Asia, North Sea, West Africa, Brazil
Demand Drivers: Fleet expansion in OSV sector driven by deepwater development and offshore wind; vessel owners consolidating fleets and needing experienced operations managers; post-COVID crew and supply chain challenges requiring stronger operational oversight