Role Summary Offshore Operations is seeking a highly capable Chief Officer to serve as the vessel's Second‑in‑Command and the Master's principal deputy. This role carries substantial management responsibility, overseeing the deck department, ensuring safe and compliant vessel operations, and maintaining high standards of leadership, organisation, and professionalism.
Responsibilities
Act as Second‑in‑Command, fully capable of assuming temporary command of the vessel in the Master's absence.
Lead, organise and supervise the deck department, ensuring discipline, performance and adherence to company standards.
Mentor and develop Junior Deck Officers, ensuring they follow all procedures and are prepared for progression.
Manage and record deck staff working hours and maintain an efficient, well‑coordinated team.
Provide thorough written handovers when joining or leaving the vessel.
Plan, manage and supervise maintenance of all deck areas, hatches, holds and superstructure.
Inspect deck machinery, equipment and inventories on joining the ship, ensuring readiness and compliance.
Maintain responsibility for deck stores, stowage, stock levels and ordering.
Ensure safe and efficient operation of all deck equipment and liaise with the Chief Engineer regarding defects.
Take charge of loading, discharge and ballasting operations, ensuring correct stability, stress and securing of cargo.
Verify cargo properties and ensure safe stowage and correct marking, including hazardous cargo.
Conduct all required stability calculations before departure and maintain accurate tank soundings and records.
Serve as a Watchkeeping Officer (typically 4–8), taking full operational control of the vessel when on watch.
Follow all navigation procedures and international regulations.
Take assigned station during berthing and unberthing and maintain communication with the Master and Pilot.
Lead shipboard drills and verify records.
Maintain and issue all safety equipment and PPE, ensuring correct use by personnel.
Prevent pollution and work with the Chief Engineer during bunkering and bilge operations to avoid spills.
Maintain vessel security and follow all contingency plans and emergency procedures.
Report any cargo‑related or operational equipment damage and ensure Engineering is informed.
Be conversant with Permit to Work / Tag Out systems, waste disposal procedures, shipboard management team processes and shipboard safety committee responsibilities.
Qualifications
British nationality and a valid British passport to obtain SC clearance.
Certificate of Competence as Chief Officer (Unlimited) as a minimum.
Valid STCW certification, including Survival Techniques, Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting, Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities, Designated Security Duties and Survival Craft, Proficiency in Fast Rescue Boat (FRB).
An unrestricted ENG1 licence.
Methodical approach and strong organisational capability.
Experience with safety routines, vessel contingency plans and company safety management systems (SMS, IMS, ISM, ISPS).
Disability Confident employer – all applicants with a disability will be considered.
Benefits
Competitive holiday package.
Over 1,100 internal courses available, funding for qualifications and apprenticeships.
Employee assistance programme, Bupa Anytime HealthLine, wellbeing app, 30% off at Serco‑managed leisure centres, and 24/7 access to a virtual GP service.
Discounts across around 1,000 retailers.
Paid volunteering day, tax‑free charitable giving through Payroll Giving Scheme, donate your pennies from your monthly pay to the Serco People Fund Charity.
Employee networks supporting inclusion and connection – LGBTQIA+, women, parents and carers, people with disabilities, veterans and people from all cultural backgrounds.
We comply with equal opportunity legislation and welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates.
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