Senior Dynamic Positioning Operator (SDPO)

Valaris; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Valaris is seeking a Senior Dynamic Positioning Operator in Houston, TX. The Sr DPO operates automated and fixed station-keeping systems while ensuring navigational safety on the MODU.

You will supervise junior operators and maintain logbooks, ensuring compliance with regulatory and internal records. A valid Dynamic Positioning Operator certificate and relevant experience are essential for this role. Valaris is committed to providing equal employment opportunities.

Qualifications

• Minimum of two years experience as certified DPO on MODUs.
• Valid STCW 95 II/1 license required.
• Compliance with all mandatory Sr DPO training from Valaris training matrix.

Responsibilities

• Operate automated and fixed station keeping systems.
• Maintain DP/Bridge logbooks and records.
• Ensure safe Dynamic Positioning activities and operations.

Skills

Dynamic Positioning

Marine Operations

Communication

Education

STCW 95 II/1 License

Dynamic Positioning Operator Certificate

Job description

Senior Dynamic Positioning Operator (SDPO)

Houston, TX, United States

Job Description

Job Summary

The Sr Dynamic Positioning Operator (Sr DPO) operates the automated and fixed station keeping system of the MODU while on location and acts as the Officer in Charge of the Navigational Watch (OICNW) while underway. The Sr DPO is the Senior Marine representative on the bridge/control room.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities

Reports directly to the Chief Mate or Barge Supervisor. May report directly to the Master if no Chief Mate/Barge Supervisor is on tour.

Is the senior person on the bridge/control room in the absence of the Chief Mate or Master.

Junior Dynamic Positioning Operator (JDPO) and Dynamic Positioning Operator (DPO) report directly to the Sr DPO.

Complies with the Valaris Management System’s (VMS), policies, procedures, and relevant regulatory requirements.

Responsible for proper set up, operation, and monitoring of the DP System and associated sensors.

Operates and understands ballast control system, power management system, bilge system, ventilation system, fire & gas system, fuel system, etc. as per the most recent class-approved DP FMEA and Proving Trials.

Responsible for maintaining applicable and required regulatory and internal vessel records.

Immediately communicates a situation that may result in a position loss or any equipment fault or failure that degrades station‑keeping ability.

Maintains DP/Bridge logbooks and other DP records as required.

Maintains records of system anomalies and ensures they are adequately corrected.

Supports Preventive and Corrective DP equipment maintenance.

Supports acoustic system setup and deployment.

Understands basic drill floor operations and their 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 plans DP operations to support the overall operational goal.

Maintains awareness of Permits to Work and Isolated equipment as it pertains to equipment or systems that support DP operations.

Ensures operations are planned, organized, supervised, and executed in accordance with well programs, rig move plans, company requirements, and contractual obligations.

Prepares a comprehensive and accurate work status report and communicates it at end of shift and end of hitch handovers.

Maintains a safe navigational watch as required and as directed by the Master.

Reviews and understands the vessel’s class‑approved DP Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) and Proving Trials.

Reviews and understands the requirements of the SSOC procedure.

Possesses full operational knowledge of the data logger.

Responsible to ensure DPOs and Jr DPOs receive adequate on‑the‑job DP training and experience.

Prepares and executes rig move plans in accordance with Master’s Standing Orders and company procedures.

Maintains nautical publications and charts per regulatory standards.

Maintains Voyage Planning report (transits/field moves).

Ensures safe Dynamic Positioning activities and Simultaneous Operations with other vessels.

Responsible for maintaining the 500‑meter exclusion zone of the vessel.

Performs emergency duties and responsibilities as stated on the Station Bill, DP EmergencyResponse Plan and vessel specific Emergency Response Manual.

As an identified Barrier Authority (BA) under the Valaris Management System (VMS), integral to the management and control of Major Accident Hazards/Process Safety Risks. Responsible for the thorough and timely completion of assigned barrier integrity verification activities, as prescribed under VMS, for the assessment of associated deficiencies and, if applicable taking mitigating or corrective actions to the best of their competency, knowledge and ability.

Qualifications / Experience

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

Valid Dynamic Positioning Operator certificate

Minimum of two (2) years experience as certified DPO on MODU’s and preferably on same type of DP system; or three years minimum experience as certified DPO from other type DP vessel

Compliant with all mandatory Sr DPO training described in the Valaris training matrix.

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].