Dynamic Positioning Operator

About the role

The DPO (Dynamic Positioning Officer) is the Junior DP watchstander who trains and works under the direct supervision of the Senior DPO. The DPO maintains the vessel on station for operations while on location and monitors position while underway. They continuously monitor all systems critical for DP operations while on the DP desk and serve as Navigational Watch Officer when relieved from DP duty. The role involves maintaining constant communication with the rig floor, ROV, and Engine Control Room to ensure awareness of current operations and power systems.

Responsibilities

• Maintain the vessel on station for operations and monitor position while underway.
• Continuously monitor all systems critical for DP operations while on the DP desk.
• Serve as Navigational Watch Officer when relieved from DP duty.
• Maintain constant communication with the rig floor, ROV, and Engine Control Room.
• Maintain all required forms, logs, and checklists in a professional and timely manner.
• Understand and follow FMEA, WSOG, DP Operations Manual, Standing Orders, and Night Orders.
• Aid in the maintenance of DP system components and position monitoring references if necessary.
• Implement and uphold safety and environmental compliance requirements.
• Work under the direction of the Sr. DPO to gain greater knowledge and proficiency in DP operations.
• Optimize vessel position and heading to minimize vessel force required to maintain location.
• Continuously monitor current and forecasted weather and met ocean conditions.
• Understand and follow prescribed WSOG, Standing Orders, Night Orders, and company policies.
• Maintain a high level of situational awareness while on watch and minimize distractions.
• Operate the automated and fixed station-keeping system of the vessel.
• Coordinate with the Master and Rig Manager to move on or off location, starting or securing the DP systems.
• Monitor the DP system and its associated equipment to maintain the desired position during drilling operations.
• Communicate with Sr. DPO, Master, Drill Floor, and Engine Room during inclement weather.
• Maintain good communications with the drill floor, engine control room, ROV, and Subsea.
• Advise the Driller and Master of potential position loss.
• Assist Chief Mate and Master with deck operations as required.
• Perform preventative maintenance on DP equipment and set up DP system operational parameters.
• Run and maintain records for hydrophones and subsea beacons.
• Be familiar with basic operational theory and failure modes of satellite and acoustic position reference systems.
• Understand principles of basic closed-loop control system theory, Emergency Response Manual, and required software.
• Complete training on systems relevant to the DP position.
• Control the vessel using manual and joystick controls.
• Report all defects and anomalies to the Sr. DPO and Master.
• Ensure all DP system data are recorded and adequate power reserves are maintained.
• Function as vessel radio operator and maintain proper GMDSS and Radio watch.
• Support Sr. DPO in navigation and Watch Officer duties during transit.
• Know operational response to all DP alarms and Vessel Management System alarms.
• Understand principles of DP processing of reference systems, wind sensors, VRS, and thrusters performance.
• Know vessel’s Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) and operations manuals.
• Maintain the rig in a stable condition at the correct draft and trim.
• Make regular use of the onboard simulator, where available.
• Manage deck crews and work outside with them as required.
• Monitor all DP room alarms, including DP system, Vessel Management System (VMS), Fire and Gas.
• Monitor and keep abreast of weather conditions at all times.
• Operate and understand the ballast control system, Power Management System, and fire and gas systems.
• Operate dynamic positioning equipment and vessel’s radios and radars as required.
• Possess knowledge of general math, trigonometry, and geometry.
• Sound ballast and bulk tanks; assist with loading and sampling of bulk products.
• Understand drilling operations, well-control, Emergency Disconnect Sequences (EDS), and BOP operations.
• Stand navigation watch as authorized by the individual’s license.
• Stay aware of vessel movements inside and outside the 500-meter Security Exclusion Zone.
• Train and instruct assigned personnel as requested by management.
• Understudy the Sr. DPO and update marine navigation publications and charts.
• Use daily DP operational experience to advance personal knowledge and share lessons learned.
• Use radar displays for detection and interpretation of local severe weather patterns.
• Use the Data Logger to optimize DP and Power Plant Operations.
• Assist in voyage planning and work with key supervisory personnel on the rig.
• Support Sr. DPO in ensuring the DP system is repaired and pre-tested between well locations.
• Consult with outside technical experts or specialists as required.
• Support maintenance requirements for the DP system and its associated equipment.
• Ensure adequate spare parts are available and properly stored.
• Maintain a daily DP system logbook and prepare weekly reports on station-keeping activities.
• Maintain up-to-date records of DP system equipment, performance, and maintenance schedules.
• Ensure administrative tasks are completed timely and accurately.
• Implement and uphold company safety policies and procedures.
• Ensure all operations proceed safely and correct unsafe acts or conditions.
• Maintain safety and security of the ship’s crew and operational condition of safety systems.
• Lead the ship’s firefighting and damage control response from the deck level.
• Train and instruct crewmembers in firefighting, safety, and deck operations.
• Familiarize and adhere to the company’s Live Safe Code and Hazard Identification Tool.
• Attend and participate in daily pre-tour and weekly safety meetings.
• Ensure compliance with company management system and government regulations.
• Initiate a safety stand-down when unplanned hazards are observed.
• Perform all Safety Critical Tasks as detailed in the HSE Case.
• Develop and implement Job Safety Analysis and prepare hazard assessments.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Marine Transportation preferred.
• 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.
• Proficient in office applications, dynamic positioning control systems, and other required systems.