CUTTER CAPTAIN

NMDC Careers; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 150,000 - 210,000; Full time

Job summary

NMDC Group seeks an experienced Captain for a Self-Propelled Cutter Suction Dredger to lead safe operations and ensure regulatory compliance. You will oversee navigation, vessel safety, crew management, and environmental protection while coordinating with project teams across management and technical divisions.

The role requires Master Unlimited certification, STCW training, and 5–10 years in SPCSD operations, with a strong safety culture and meticulous record-keeping.

Qualifications

• Master Unlimited certification required.
• STCW Basic and Advanced Training certifications mandatory.
• 5–10 years of rank experience onboard SPCSD.

Responsibilities

• Command and operate the Self-Propelled Cutter Suction Dredger safely and efficiently.
• Ensure safe navigation, maneuvering, anchoring, and positioning during dredging and sailing.
• Take overall responsibility for vessel safety, crew management, and environmental compliance.
• Plan and supervise dredging operations in coordination with Project Management and technical teams.
• Monitor dredging production, cutter performance and operational parameters to meet project targets.
• Supervise bridge watchkeeping, navigation equipment operation, and voyage planning activities.
• Investigate onboard incidents and maintain thorough vessel logbooks and reports.

Education

Master Unlimited

STCW Basic & Advanced Training

Job description

Captain for Self-Propelled Cutter Suction Dredger

Responsibilities

• Command and operate the Self-Propelled Cutter Suction Dredger safely and efficiently in compliance with international maritime regulations and company procedures.
• Ensure safe navigation, maneuvering, anchoring, and positioning of the dredger during dredging and sailing operations.
• Take overall responsibility for vessel safety, crew management, operational performance, and environmental compliance.
• Plan and supervise dredging operations in coordination with Project Management, Production, Survey, and Technical departments.
• Monitor dredging production, cutter performance, slurry flow, and operational parameters to achieve project targets.
• Ensure safe execution of dredging activities in varying weather, sea, and tidal conditions.
• Supervise bridge watchkeeping, navigation equipment operation, and voyage planning activities.
• Ensure compliance with ISM Code, SOLAS, MARPOL, Flag State regulations, and company HSE policies.
• Conduct toolbox talks, safety meetings, emergency drills, and risk assessments onboard.
• Maintain effective communication with Port Authorities, Clients, Pilots, Marine Coordinators, and other marine traffic.
• Monitor vessel stability, ballast operations, draft conditions, and safe loading limitations at all times.
• Coordinate with Chief Engineer regarding machinery readiness, maintenance planning, and operational reliability.
• Ensure proper implementation of Planned Maintenance System (PMS) and defect reporting procedures.
• Supervise safe handling and operation of anchors, spuds, dredge pipelines, and associated marine equipment.
• Verify that all navigational charts, publications, permits, and vessel certificates remain valid and updated.
• Investigate onboard incidents, near misses, equipment damage, and operational delays, and submit detailed reports.
• Maintain accurate vessel logbooks, dredging reports, production records, and statutory documentation.
• Ensure effective crew discipline, welfare, training, and competency management onboard.
• Support mobilization, demobilization, dry docking, and project transition activities as required.
• Coordinate fuel management, freshwater usage, and onboard consumable control to optimize operational efficiency.
• Ensure compliance with environmental protection procedures during dredging and disposal activities.
• Supervise emergency response situations including fire, flooding, grounding, collision, and medical emergencies.
• Monitor operational risks and implement corrective actions to ensure uninterrupted project execution.
• Liaise with survey teams for dredging tolerances, positioning systems, and project progress verification.
• Promote a strong safety culture and maintain high standards of professionalism, teamwork, and operational excellence onboard the vessel.

Qualifications

Certified as Master (Unlimited)

Basic & advanced STCW training certification

5-10 years of rank experience onboard SPCSD.

About Us

DEVELOP YOUR CAREER WITH INDUSTRY LEADERS

NMDC Group is always looking for talented individuals to join our team. We know that our people are fundamental to our success as a business, which is why we support their career development and personal wellbeing in every way we can.

NMDC Group offers an environment where every employee can thrive and reach their professional potential. Nothing is more important to us than ensuring every employee feels valued and respected in their roles, and able to progress in their career through training, mentorship, and educational opportunities.

With a wide range of attractive employee benefits and competitive salaries, we have created a workplace defined by its culture, and made by its people. If you have a passion for EPC and marine construction and want to work on some of the region’s most exciting projects, find your next challenge with us.