Cutter Captain – Self‑Propelled Cutter Suction Dredger

About the role

The Cutter Captain commands a Self‑Propelled Cutter Suction Dredger (SPCSD), ensuring safe, efficient and compliant navigation during dredging, sailing, berthing and unberthing operations.

Key responsibilities

• Command the vessel in accordance with company policies, Flag State requirements, Class rules, ISM Code, COLREGs and all applicable maritime regulations.
• Plan and execute vessel movements, dredging transits and operational activities in coordination with Dredging Superintendent, Project Management and Marine Operations teams.
• Maintain bridge watchkeeping, navigational safety and passage planning, including electronic navigation, chart management and position monitoring.
• Direct critical maneuvers in restricted visibility, adverse weather, heavy traffic and complex dredging‑area movements.
• Supervise self‑propulsion, steering, thruster and anchoring operations, and ensure safe positioning during cutter‑head deployment, swing operations and spud/anchor handling.
• Monitor vessel stability, trim, draught, freeboard and loading conditions, taking corrective action as required.
• Lead emergency preparedness and response, covering fire, flooding, collision, grounding, man‑overboard and loss of propulsion/steering.
• Ensure implementation of the Safety Management System, Permit‑to‑Work procedures and conduct regular equipment inspections.
• Maintain accurate deck, bridge, navigation, safety and statutory records, logs and reports.

Required profile

• Proven experience as a captain or senior deck officer on self‑propelled dredging vessels.
• Valid Certificate of Competency for Master of a vessel of appropriate size and type.
• Strong knowledge of maritime regulations, ISM Code and dredging operational requirements.
• Ability to supervise and mentor deck officers and junior crew, promoting a safety‑first culture.

Required skills

• Electronic navigation systems operation
• Chart management and passage planning
• Vessel stability and trim monitoring
• Safety Management System implementation
• Permit‑to‑Work procedures
• Navigation equipment inspection and maintenance