Job SummaryF3EA is seeking a qualified Chief Officer / Chief Mate to support maritime operations aboard operational vessels supporting dynamic mission requirements. This position is responsible for assisting the Master in the safe and efficient operation of the vessel while leading and managing the Deck Department.
The Chief Officer / Chief Mate serves as the senior deck operations leader onboard and is responsible for deck department supervision, vessel safety, cargo and ballast operations, navigational watch-standing, emergency preparedness, and operational readiness. Personnel in this role are expected to uphold F3EA operational standards while reinforcing a culture of professionalism, accountability, safety, and mission execution.
Roles and Responsibilities- Lead and supervise all operations within the Deck Department
- Ensure safe and efficient execution of deck operations, maintenance, and vessel readiness activities
- Manage deck department personnel, work schedules, training, and professional development
- Support safe vessel navigation and perform Officer of the Watch (OOW) duties in accordance with COLREGs and vessel procedures
- Maintain vessel structure, deck equipment, cargo systems, and ballast operations in operational condition
- Oversee vessel stability, stress, cargo handling, and deck maintenance activities
- Maintain deck stores, PPE inventory, tools, and operational supplies
- Serve as Ship Safety Officer (SSO) responsible for lifesaving appliances and safety equipment compliance
- Ensure compliance with SOLAS, MARPOL, and applicable maritime safety and environmental requirements
- Manage SOPEP equipment and support pollution prevention procedures
- Support risk management, Job Safety Analysis (JSA), and implementation of safe work procedures
- Administer and support Planned Maintenance System (PMS) actions within assigned areas
- Lead and participate in emergency drills, safety meetings, and vessel readiness exercises
- Maintain required operational records, risk assessments, checklists, and documentation
- Monitor Maritime Safety Information (MSI), weather reports, and navigational warnings
- Coordinate deck operations with vessel leadership, clients, survey personnel, and third parties
- Promote effective communication and coordination between deck, engineering, and support departments
- Perform additional duties as assigned in support of vessel operations and mission requirements
Supervisory Responsibilities- Direct supervisory responsibility for all deck department personnel and deck operations.
Required Qualifications and Education- Valid U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) endorsed as Chief Mate appropriate to vessel requirements
- Valid STCW endorsements and required maritime certifications
- Experience managing deck operations aboard operational vessels
- Knowledge of vessel navigation, cargo operations, ballast systems, and maritime safety procedures
- Experience performing Officer of the Watch (OOW) duties
- Knowledge of COLREGs, SOLAS, MARPOL, and maritime regulatory requirements
- Strong leadership, communication, and decision-making skills
- Ability to work rotational schedules in maritime environments
- U.S. citizenship required
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Defense security clearance
Preferred Qualifications and Education- Experience supporting government maritime operations or defense-related missions
- Prior experience aboard offshore support vessels, research vessels, or similarly complex platforms
- Experience operating in high operational tempo maritime environments
- Prior military or government-contracted maritime experience
- Familiarity with Dynamic Positioning (DP) vessel operations
Work Authorization/Security Clearance Requirements- Ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Defense security clearance.
Physical Demands/Work Environment- Operational maritime and shipboard environment
- Exposure to varying weather conditions, vessel motion, and operational deck activities
- Extended periods standing watch, climbing ladders, and performing physically demanding work
- Ability to support rotational or extended underway operations as required
Other DutiesPlease note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee for this job.
