An offshore drilling operation is seeking a Dynamic Positioning Operator (DPO) — the Junior DP watchstander who trains and works under the direct supervision of the Senior DPO. The role maintains the vessel on station during operations, monitors position while underway, and continuously oversees all systems critical for DP operations while on the DP desk.
About the Role — Dynamic Positioning Watchstanding
Core Function: Maintain vessel position on station and monitor DP systems continuously
Dual Role: Serves as Navigational Watch Officer when relieved from DP duty
Communication: Constant contact with rig floor, ROV and Engine Control Room
Compliance: Follows FMEA, WSOG, DP Operations Manual, Standing Orders and Night Orders
Career Opportunity & Technical Growth
Structured Development: Work under a Senior DPO to gain proficiency in DP operations
Specialized Field: Dynamic positioning is a highly technical offshore marine discipline
Skill Development: Build expertise in DP control systems, power management and station keeping
Career Growth: Progress toward Senior DPO through hands-on offshore experience
Position Overview
This Dynamic Positioning Operator role involves optimizing vessel position and heading, continuously monitoring weather and met ocean conditions, operating the automated and fixed station keeping system, coordinating with the Master and Rig Manager during DP system start-up or securing, monitoring the DP system during drilling operations, maintaining communication with the drill floor and engine room, and assisting with deck operations and preventative maintenance on DP equipment.
Why This Role Matters: As a Dynamic Positioning Operator, you help maintain safe, precise vessel positioning during critical offshore drilling operations, apply structured training under a Senior DPO to build specialized DP expertise, monitor complex systems including power management, DP control and vessel management systems, uphold strict safety and environmental compliance standards, and build a technical marine career path within offshore drilling operations.
Key Responsibilities
DP System Monitoring & Position Keeping
- Maintain the vessel on station for operations while on location, monitor position while underway
- Continuously monitor all systems critical for DP operations while on the DP desk
- Optimize vessel position and heading to minimize vessel force required to maintain location
- Operate the automated and fixed station keeping system of the vessel
Navigation & Watchkeeping
- Serve as Navigational Watch Officer while relieved from DP duty
- Stand navigation watch as authorized by individual license
- Maintain a high level of situational awareness while on watch
Communication & Coordination
- Maintain constant communication with rig floor, ROV and Engine Control Room
- Coordinate with Master and Rig Manager to move on/off location and start/secure the DP system
- Advise the Driller and Master of potential position loss
Maintenance, Records & Documentation
- Maintain all required forms, logs and checklists in a professional and timely manner
- Assist in preventative maintenance on DP equipment and system components
- Maintain a daily DP system logbook and prepare weekly reports
Health, Safety & Environmental Compliance
- Responsible for implementing and upholding safety and environmental compliance requirements
- Attend and actively participate in daily pre-tour and weekly safety meetings
- Assist in firefighting, safety and deck operations training as required
Qualifications & Requirements
Educational Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Marine Transportation preferred
Experience & Certification Requirements
- 1+ years of experience on DP vessels and in an industrial marine environment
- Unlimited DPO certificate issued by the Nautical Institute
- USCG Unlimited Tonnage Any Oceans Third Mate’s License, or equivalent
- Completion of all training requirements for the position within the designated time period
Essential Skills
- Proficient in office applications and dynamic positioning control systems
- Basic knowledge of closed-loop control system theory and DP reference systems
- Knowledge of general math, trigonometry and geometry
- Understanding of drilling operations, well-control, and ROV operations basics
About Offshore Dynamic Positioning Operations
This role sits aboard an offshore drilling vessel where precise dynamic positioning keeps the unit safely on location during drilling operations. Working under a Senior DPO, the operator maintains continuous system monitoring, communicates across rig floor, engine room and ROV teams, and follows structured company policies, WSOG and FMEA guidance to ensure safe, compliant and efficient station keeping throughout every operation.
Career Excellence: Build a specialized marine career operating advanced dynamic positioning systems offshore.
Who Should Apply?
- Certified DPOs: Holding an Unlimited DPO Certificate from the Nautical Institute
- Licensed Marine Officers: With a USCG Third Mate’s License or equivalent
- Marine Transportation Graduates: Seeking offshore drilling vessel experience
- Offshore Watchstanders: With experience in an industrial marine environment
- Safety-Focused Mariners: Comfortable with strict HSE and compliance protocols
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