Director of Vessel Operations

Stabbert Maritime is a family-owned company with a proud legacy spanning over 50 years and two generations. We provide a comprehensive range of innovative solutions and support services to clients in the offshore, scientific research, subsea, defense, and ship repair industries. Our diverse operational fleet serves the science, research, offshore energy, defense, and renewable energy sectors, delivering reliable and specialized maritime services. Stabbert is currently looking for a Director of Vessel Operations.

POSITION SUMMARY 

The Director of Vessel Operations oversees the day-to-day management and performance of Stabbert Maritime’s offshore DP2 fleet. This role provides leadership to Vessel Managers, ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant operations that align with company strategy and customer commitments. The position serves as the key link between vessel operations and executive leadership, allowing the VP of Operations to focus on broader business development and strategic initiatives.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:  

• Oversee Vessel Managers to ensure effective vessel management, including crew, maintenance, compliance, and client satisfaction.
• Serve as the escalation point for complex operational or regulatory issues.
• Evaluate Vessel Manager performance through feedback, reports, and structured reviews.
• Foster collaboration among Vessel Managers and support departments (Technical, HR, HSE, Purchasing, etc.) for efficient operations.
• Promote strong working relationships between shore-based teams and vessel crews.
• Implement and monitor operational best practices to enhance safety, reliability, and efficiency.
• Ensure all vessels meet regulatory, safety, and charter requirements, address compliance gaps proactively.
• Lead development of project risk assessments and safety protocols with HSE.
• Review operational and financial performance to identify improvements and cost-saving opportunities.
• Maintain client satisfaction through contract oversight, performance monitoring, and timely resolution of issues.
• Represent the company in client meetings and support Vessel Managers in key interactions.
• Align vessel operations with customer and contractual obligations.
• Partner with the VP of Operations on strategic goals, growth initiatives, and diversification efforts.
• Champion adoption of new technologies and systems to enhance operational effectiveness.
• Align daily operations with long-term company and regulatory objectives.
• Ensure compliance with flag state, SOLAS, IMO, USCG, and environmental regulations.
• Support HSE in maintaining safety programs suited to company size and risk profile.
• Participate in incident investigations and implement corrective actions.
• Oversee vessel operations, crew management, and logistics.
• Maintain strong relationships with Captains and Senior Officers.
• Provide timely and accurate reports on vessel condition, performance, and budgets.
• Lead by example in regulatory compliance, safety and client relations.

KNOWLEDGE SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams, including Vessel Managers, Port Engineers, and operational support staff.
• Strong knowledge of vessel operations, including technical, regulatory, and budget management.
• Excellent communication and conflict-resolution skills to maintain cohesive team dynamics and client relationships.
• Financial acumen to analyze operating budgets, track vessel costs, and recommend optimizations.
• Familiarity with maritime software platforms.
• Collaborative yet decisive, with the ability to delegate effectively while maintaining oversight.
• Skilled at mentoring and developing high-performing teams to meet organizational objectives.
• Focused on proactive problem-solving and risk mitigation to ensure operational continuity.

• Experience: 10+ years in maritime operations, with at least 5 years in a leadership role managing vessel operations or similar teams.
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Maritime Operations, Engineering, Business Administration, or related field. Equivalent experience may be considered.
• Certifications: Deep understanding of DP2 operations, ISM Code, HSE protocols, and regulatory requirements.

Benefit Summary
Stabbert Maritime provides a competitive and comprehensive benefits program for full-time, salary-eligible employees. Our current benefits offering includes:

• Paid vacation and paid sick leave
• Employer-sponsored 401(k) plan with matching contributions after one year of service
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options
• Employer-provided and voluntary life insurance options
• Flexible scheduling, where business needs allow

Benefits, eligibility requirements, and plan provisions are subject to the terms of the applicable benefit plan documents and may be modified at the company’s discretion. Additional details will be provided to candidates during the hiring process.

The Stabbert Maritime team takes pride in our vessels, crews, and the ability to think outside the box to solve our customers' needs. If you are looking to be part of a dynamic team with a company that focuses on its people and understands the need for work-life balance, please send your resume.