USV Operator

Fugro; Dubai; On-site; AED 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

Fugro is seeking a USV Operator to join a rotational, site-based role supporting the execution of detailed passage plans and safe vessel operations. You will maintain navigational watches, track certifications, and update charts and notices to mariners, ensuring regulatory compliance and smooth 24/7 operations on project sites.

The role requires STCW certificates, RADAR/ARPA, ECDIS, and GMDSS qualifications, with a preference for USV experience and proficiency in relevant software.

Qualifications

• Minimum 1 year of experience in maritime operations, preferably with USVs or remotely operated systems.
• Flag state certificate and STCW certificates are required.
• RADAR/ARPA, ECDIS, and GMDSS General Operator certificates are expected.
• Proficiency with software/tools for USV operations is required.
• In-house USV Training Matrix guidance must be followed.

Responsibilities

• Support creation and execution of detailed passage plans with regulatory compliance.
• Maintain safe navigational watch and ensure vessel follows planned route.
• Track vessel certifications and take action per flag state requirements.
• Update navigational publications, charts, and notices to mariners.
• Complete IMS-aligned checklists and reports for operational readiness.
• Support launch and recovery of payloads with safe deployment.
• Follow emergency procedures and participate in drills and incident reporting.
• Maintain accurate operational logs and support vessel maintenance periods.

Skills

Maritime operations

USV operations

English proficiency

Technical aptitude

Education

Flag state certificate

STCW certificates and licenses

RADAR/ARPA certificate

ECDIS certificate

GMDSS General Operator certificate

Tools

USV software tools

Job description

USV Operator

Job Description

Do you want to join our Geo-data revolution? Fugro’s global reach and unique know-how will put the world at your fingertips. Our love of exploration and technical expertise help us to provide our clients with invaluable insights. We source and make sense of the most relevant Geo-data for their needs, so they can design, build and operate their assets more safely, sustainably and efficiently. But we’re always looking for new talent to take the next step with us. For bright minds who enjoy meaningful work and want to push our pioneering spirit further. For individuals who can take the initiative but work well within a team.

Tasks and Responsibilities

• Support the creation and execution of detailed passage plans, ensuring compliance with maritime regulations and risk management.
• Maintain a safe navigational watch and ensure the vessel follows the planned route safely.
• Support tracking vessel certification and implement required actions in line with complying to flag state requirements.
• Maintain and update navigational publications, charts, and notices to mariners.
• Complete checklists and reports in line with the IMS, ensuring operational readiness.
• Support launch and recovery of payloads, ensuring safe deployment.
• Follow emergency response procedures, including participating in drills and supporting incident reporting.
• Maintain accurate operational logs.
• Supporting during vessel maintenance periods.

Qualifications, education & training

• Minimum of 1 year of experience in maritime operations, preferably involving USVs or remotely operated systems.
• Flag state certificate
• STCW-required certificates and licenses for the position.
• RADAR/ARPA certificate, ECDIS certificate, GMDSS General Operator certificate.
• Proficiency in using relevant software and tools for USV operations.
• Training as per Company USV Training Matrix.
• Knowledge of applicable codes, guidelines, and standards.
• Knowledge of equipment and procedures under their responsibility.
• Good boat handling and control capabilities.

Additional Skills

• Strong technical aptitude and eagerness to learn.
• Excellent command of the English language, both written and verbal

Working Conditions

• Rotational position.
• Operational site‑based, ROC, LOC, or vessel maintenance location (project‑dependent).
• This role will require flexible working hours to support 24/7 operations.
• Travel required for audits, visas and training.

What we offer

Fugro provides a positive work environment as well as projects that will satisfy the most curious minds. We also offer great opportunities to stretch and develop yourself. By giving you the freedom to grow faster, we think you’ll be able to do what you do best, better. Which should help us to find fresh ways to get to know the earth better. We encourage you to be yourself at Fugro. So bring your energy and enthusiasm, your keen eye and can‑do attitude. But bring your questions and opinions too. Because to be the world’s leading Geo‑data specialist, we need the strength in depth that comes from a diverse, driven team.

Our view on diversity, equity and inclusion

At Fugro, our people are our superpower. Their variety of viewpoints, experiences, knowledge and talents give us collective strength. Distinctive beliefs and diverse backgrounds are therefore welcome, but discrimination, harassment, inappropriate behaviour and unfair treatment are not. Everybody is to be well‑supported and treated fairly. And everyone must be valued and have their voice heard. Crucially, we believe that getting this right brings a sense of belonging, of safety and acceptance, that makes us feel more connected to Fugro’s purpose ‘together create a safe and liveable world’ – and to each other.