INTERNAL POSTING - Vessel Operations Manager

Full Job Description

Job Duties Include:

• Directing the operations of SCDNR-MRD's four (4) large research vessels engaged in estuarine and ocean research, management and education, and supervising the Captain of Record of each vessel.
• Ensuring that all Vessel Operations Section staff members are informed of their duties and know their roles in decision making.
• Soliciting views and opinions from Vessel Operations Staff and users concerning the direction of Vessel Operations at SCDNR-MRD and addressing long-term needs of the section.
• Ensuring that all Vessel Operations vessels and equipment are well maintained by:
  • Ensuring that each captain conducts a comprehensive preventative maintenance program and oversees the inspection and maintenance of all equipment over which they or their crew members are responsible.
  • Reviewing and assisting in the preparation of work specs and bid contracts for yard-periods and administering all contracts for vessels.
  • Ensuring all vessels comply with U.S. Coast Guard regulations.
  • Ensuring that radio and other licensing are renewed.
• Working closely with the Marine Operations Director on annual budget planning.
• Working to maintain cost controls and records for vessel operations including number of trips, crew, and scientists per vessel.
• Preparing invoices for Accounts Receivable to charge vessel cruises to the appropriate accounts.
• Working to develop and maintain vessel operating cost estimates to allow rate calculations for use in charging vessel utilizing programs.
• Reviewing grant and project proposals that require ship time and approve/disapprove based on vessel availability and suitability.
• Preparing cruise schedules to meet each program's needs, and coordinating vessel cruise plans with research, management and education managers.
• Coordinating with Marine Education to schedule the EV Discovery.
• Ensuring that vessel crews are prepared to go to sea as the cruise schedule and weather permits.
• Providing support for MRD Operations in the areas of emergency preparedness, implementation, damage assessment and recovery.
• Overseeing purchasing for the Vessel Operations Section.

Requirements

A bachelor's degree and two (2) years relevant program experience.

Watercraft Captain License

Qualifications

Ten (10) years experience working at-sea on various vessels and the ability to operate and maintain research vessels. Supervisory experience is preferred to demonstrate the management skills necessary to supervise the broad scope of activities within vessel operations. An understanding of the grants administration process.