A rare opportunity has arisen for an experienced Port Captain to join a globally respected marine operations and research organization supporting advanced offshore and scientific vessel operations.
This is a senior operational leadership role overseeing vessel operations, marine compliance, crew management, safety systems, and port activities for a modern fleet operating sophisticated offshore and research missions.
The successful candidate will combine strong shore-side operational leadership with deep seagoing expertise and advanced vessel operations experience, including dynamic positioning systems and complex marine operations.
This position also offers the opportunity to periodically sail as Relief Captain aboard a state-of-the-art research vessel conducting extended offshore expeditions.
Key Responsibilities
This is a senior operational leadership role overseeing vessel operations, marine compliance, crew management, safety systems, and port activities for a modern fleet operating sophisticated offshore and research missions.
The successful candidate will combine strong shore-side operational leadership with deep seagoing expertise and advanced vessel operations experience, including dynamic positioning systems and complex marine operations.
This position also offers the opportunity to periodically sail as Relief Captain aboard a state-of-the-art research vessel conducting extended offshore expeditions.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee vessel operations, port calls, and voyage execution
- Ensure compliance with international maritime regulations, Class, ISM, SOLAS, and environmental standards
- Coordinate crew management, recruitment, and manning
- Support maintenance planning, drydock activities, and technical operations
- Lead safety management, audits, inspections, and emergency response preparedness
- Liaise with regulatory authorities, port officials, contractors, and vessel personnel
- Monitor operational efficiency, fuel performance, and vessel readiness
- Support scientific and offshore operational activities during vessel missions
- Serve as Relief Captain when required
- USCG Master 1600GRT STCW II/1, II/2 – Master 500-3000GT
- Experience as Port Captain, Marine Superintendent, or senior vessel operations leader
- Strong knowledge of DP vessel operations and integrated bridge systems
- Experience managing safety management systems and regulatory compliance
- Demonstrated leadership within offshore, research, government, or specialist vessel operations
- Strong communication and operational decision-making skills
- Experience with scientific or research vessel operations highly advantageous
- Salary package: USD $180,000 – $230,000, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 403B retirement plan, and PTO
- Opportunity to work with a highly advanced research and offshore vessel fleet
- Unique blend of shore-side leadership and seagoing operations
- Collaborative and mission-focused organisation
- California coastal location with international operational exposure
- Long-term career growth within a technically advanced marine environment