Job description
Job Summary
The Deck Mate reports to the Master and supports the Chief Mate in the safe and efficient execution of marine and deck operations, including bulk product handling. This role helps ensure compliance with all regulatory and company requirements related to marine safety and vessel operations.
The Deck Mate is also responsible for overseeing the transfer of bulk product between supply vessels, storage silos and the cement unit. This position contributes to the safe operation of the vessel, the protection of personnel and the environment and supports the Chief Mate in maintaining the operational readiness of marine and bulk handling systems.
Principal Duties and Responsibilities
- Supports the Chief Mate in the operation, maintenance and readiness of the vessel's marine and deck equipment, including firefighting, lifesaving appliances and bulk handling systems.
- Supervises deck operations ensuring all activities are conducted safely, efficiently and in accordance with client procedures and regulatory requirements.
- Assists the Master and Chief Mate with Flag and Class surveys, as well as other statutory inspections and audits, ensuring vessel documentation and records are accurate and properly maintained.
- Participates in the inspection, monitoring and maintenance of marine, navigational, safety and emergency systems; supports the Chief Mate in maintaining accurate preventive maintenance (PM) and inspection records within the clients Asset Management System (VAMS).
- Ensures the safe handling, transfer, stowage and securing of materials and equipment in compliance with Company and regulatory requirements.
- Supports safe deck operations and maintains watertight integrity, including monitoring cargo operations, supply vessel activities and helicopter operations.
- Assists with the maintenance, deployment and recovery of hydrophones and transponders.
- Assists, as directed, in maintaining and monitoring vessel stability in the correct draft and trim, promptly reporting any deviations or concerns to the Chief Mate and Master.
- Provides supervision, guidance and support to assigned crew, promoting safe and efficient vessel operations.
- Promotes and ensures compliance with company policies, procedures and the clients Management System (VMS).
- Participates in safety meetings, toolbox talks and emergency drills to support operational readiness and continuous improvement.
- Maintains high standards of housekeeping within assigned areas of responsibility.
- Supports onboard training and crew familiarization activities.
- Ensures incidents, near misses, non-conformities and operational concerns are promptly reported to the Chief Mate or Master.
- As a designated Barrier Authority (BA), support the Valaris Management System (VMS) of Major Accident Hazards and process safety risks by performing assigned barrier verification activities and reporting any deficiencies.
Key Behaviors for Role
As part of our commitment to fostering a high-performance culture, employees are expected to align their actions and decisions with the principles outlined in our Behavioral Framework. This framework serves as the foundation for our organizational culture and guides our behaviors to drive better outcomes across the company. Employees are responsible for incorporating these behaviors into their daily actions, relationships, and decision-making to help manage expectations, strengthen relationships, and contribute to the overall success of the organization.
Analyze & Plan
- Assesses navigational, operational and environmental conditions to support safe and effective decision-making during watchkeeping and deck operations.
- Uses available data, procedures and experience to anticipate risks and plan activities accordingly.
Collaborate
- Works closely with the Master, Chief Mate, DPO's and deck crew to ensure safe, efficient and coordinated operations.
- Fosters a team environment where input is encouraged and trust is built across the crew.
Communicate
- Communicates clearly and effectively during deck operations, watchkeeping and handovers
- Ensures timely and accurate reporting of operational status, risks, incidents and deviations.
Learn, Grow & Adapt
- Actively develops knowledge and skills in Marine, Safety, bulk handling operations and leadership.
- Supports crew training and development and adapts effectively to changing operational and environmental conditions.
Deliver Results
- Takes responsibility for safe and efficient execution of operations.
- Demonstrates accountability, addresses challenges proactively and delivers results in line with company expectations and values
Qualifications / Experience
- Completion of all training and certification requirements for Deck Mate as described in the required training matrix.
- STCW Officer of the Watch (OOW) Certificate (II/1) or higher, with valid flag state endorsement
- Valid STCW certification
- DP Induction or Advanced Certificate (preferred, where applicable)
Skills & Experience
- Knowledge of all technical calculations required for the safe operation of the marine aspect of the vessel.
- Capable of performing emergency procedures including evacuations, fire drills, and other emergencies.
- Excellent knowledge of navigational systems, marine operations and safety procedures.
- Capable of responding to emergency situations including fire, evacuation and loss of position scenarios.
- Possesses good interpersonal skills, communication skills, excellent teamwork and organizational skills.