Hopper Captain

About the role

The Hopper Captain leads the operations of a hopper dredger, overseeing both nautical and dredging activities. Reporting to the Project Manager, the Captain ensures safe, efficient, and high‑quality production while guiding the crew daily.

Key responsibilities

• Direct daily management of the vessel, production targets and crew performance.
• Coordinate operational, non‑operational, nautical and administrative tasks with the project team.
• Implement and communicate the project safety and environmental plan; conduct safety meetings, toolbox talks and drills.
• Monitor compliance with national and international maritime regulations and company policies.
• Oversee waste treatment, defect reporting and maintenance coordination with the Technical Department.
• Provide daily production reports and updates on work progress, delays and corrective actions.
• Lead investigations of accidents, near‑misses and unsafe situations.

Required profile

• Extensive experience in commanding marine vessels, preferably dredgers.
• Strong knowledge of maritime safety, environmental regulations and waste‑treatment procedures.
• Proven ability to lead and train crew members to improve operational quality and reliability.
• Excellent decision‑making skills with full authority to act in the vessel’s and crew’s best interest.

Required skills

• Nautical operations and navigation.
• Dredging equipment handling and process management.
• Maritime safety and environmental compliance.