Dynamic Positioning Operator (DPO)

Valaris Limited; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Valaris Limited is seeking a Dynamic Positioning Operator (DPO) in Houston, Texas. The DPO will operate the automated and fixed station keeping system of the MODU, ensuring safety and compliance. The role requires a valid DPO certificate and at least one year of experience as a certified DPO on similar vessels.

The position emphasizes fluent English communication, adherence to training protocols, and operational independence while supporting the Senior DPO during operations.

Qualifications

• Minimum one year as certified DPO on MODU's or two years on other DP vessel.
• Compliant with all mandatory DPO training described in the company training matrix.

Responsibilities

• Operate the automated and fixed station keeping system of the MODU.
• Monitor control room alarms for the DP system and Fire & Gas systems.
• Assist with preventive and corrective maintenance on DP equipment.

Skills

Fluent English communication skills

Education

Officer in Charge of Navigational Watch License STCW 95 II/1

Valid Flag State endorsement

Valid Dynamic Positioning Operator certificate

Valid Ballast Control Operator credential

Job description

Job Summary

The Dynamic Positioning Operator (DPO) operates the automated and fixed station keeping system of the MODU while on location and acts as Officer in Charge of the Navigational Watch (OICNW) while underway.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities

• Reports directly to the Sr DPO.
• Operates within the Company’s core values and in accordance with the Code of Conduct.
• Complies with the Valaris Management System (VMS), policies, procedures, and relevant regulatory requirements.
• Operates the dynamic positioning (DP) system under the direct supervision of the Sr DPO and has an understanding of the principles of DP operations.
• Monitors all control room alarms including DP system, VMS, and Fire and Gas systems.
• Prioritizes alarm response as necessary to maintain DP system operability by calling for technical assistance or additional DP room help.
• Operates and understands the Ballast Control System, Power Management System and Fire and Gas Detection Systems in accordance with the latest class-approved DP FMEA and Proving Trials.
• Maintains the vessel in a stable condition at all times.
• Assists the Sr DPO in setting up the DP System operational parameters.
• Ensures all DP System data are recorded.
• Advises the Sr DPO, or Master/OIM, of potential position loss, malfunction of equipment, or degraded situation.
• Assists with preventive and corrective maintenance on DP equipment under direction of Sr DPO.
• Understands basic drill floor operations and the potential impact on DP Operations.
• Ensures effective communication with the drill floor, Engine Control Room (ECR), and ROV (when deployed) while connected to the seabed.
• Maintains operational awareness and supports Sr DPO in planning DP operations to support the overall operational goal.
• Supports management of the 500 meter zone.
• Stands safe navigational watch as required and instructed by the Master or Sr DPO.
• Reviews and has a basic understanding of the vessel’s class-approved DP Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) and Proving Trials.
• Possesses a basic understanding of the SSOC, drift off calculations, and riser analysis.
• Possesses basic operational knowledge of the data logger.
• Maintains system specific knowledge of DP System and Vessel Management System.
• Assists with preparation and execution of rig move plans in accordance with Master’s Standing Orders and company procedures.
• Maintains nautical publications and charts as per regulatory standards.
• Assists in maintaining Voyage Planning report (transits/field moves).
• Performs emergency duties and responsibilities as stated on the Station Bill, DP Emergency Response Plan, and vessel specific Emergency Response Manual.

Qualifications / Experience

• Officer in Charge of Navigational Watch License STCW 95 II/1.
• Valid Flag State endorsement.
• Valid Dynamic Positioning Operator certificate.
• Valid Ballast Control Operator credential.
• One (1) year minimum experience as certified DPO on MODU’s and preferably on same type of DP system; or two (2) years minimum experience as certified DPO from other type DP vessel.
• Fluent English communication skills.
• Compliant with all mandatory DPO training described in the company training matrix.

Behaviors

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.

Our five behaviors that define our culture are:

• Analyze & Plan – Being deliberate in understanding and describing the problem to solve and using information from a range of relevant sources to develop solutions that are effective and evidence‑based.
• Collaborate – Collaborating effectively, sharing ideas, and leveraging one another’s strengths based on trust, transparency, and empathy, creating an environment where everyone’s input is valued.
• Communicate – Communicate clearly with all employees and stakeholders, ensuring active listening, understanding, and timely information sharing.
• Learn, Grow & Adapt – Building organizational capability through our own learning and development while coaching others and supporting others to adapt, learn, and develop.
• Deliver Results – Striving to deliver and exceed required results, identifying and overcoming obstacles, and taking responsibility for the outcome while respecting our values.

Disclaimer

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this job. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed. Valaris is an equal opportunity employer in all aspects of employment to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation or any other non‑job related factors. Valaris is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities in our job application process. If you need such an accommodation, or a religious accommodation, please contact [e-mail].