CUTTER CAPTAIN

Role Overview

Cutter Captain for a Self-Propelled Cutter Suction Dredger with NMDC Group. The role commands and operates the dredger safely and efficiently in compliance with international maritime regulations and company procedures.

Role Purpose

To command, operate, and manage all aspects of a Self-Propelled Cutter Suction Dredger, ensuring safe navigation, efficient dredging operations, regulatory compliance, crew management, and achievement of project production targets across varying maritime conditions.

Key Responsibilities

Command & Navigation

• Command and operate the Self-Propelled Cutter Suction Dredger safely and efficiently in compliance with international maritime regulations and company procedures.
• Ensure safe navigation, maneuvering, anchoring, and positioning of the dredger during dredging and sailing operations.
• Take overall responsibility for vessel safety, crew management, operational performance, and environmental compliance.
• Supervise bridge watchkeeping, navigation equipment operation, and voyage planning activities.
• Maintain effective communication with Port Authorities, Clients, Pilots, Marine Coordinators, and other marine traffic.

Dredging Operations

• Plan and supervise dredging operations in coordination with Project Management, Production, Survey, and Technical departments.
• Monitor dredging production, cutter performance, slurry flow, and operational parameters to achieve project targets.
• Ensure safe execution of dredging activities in varying weather, sea, and tidal conditions.
• Supervise safe handling and operation of anchors, spuds, dredge pipelines, and associated marine equipment.
• Liaise with survey teams for dredging tolerances, positioning systems, and project progress verification.
• Support mobilization, demobilization, dry docking, and project transition activities as required.

Vessel Systems & Maintenance

• Monitor vessel stability, ballast operations, draft conditions, and safe loading limitations at all times.
• Coordinate with Chief Engineer regarding machinery readiness, maintenance planning, and operational reliability.
• Ensure proper implementation of Planned Maintenance System (PMS) and defect reporting procedures.
• Verify that all navigational charts, publications, permits, and vessel certificates remain valid and updated.
• Coordinate fuel management, freshwater usage, and onboard consumable control to optimize operational efficiency.

Safety, Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure compliance with ISM Code, SOLAS, MARPOL, Flag State regulations, and company HSE policies.
• Conduct toolbox talks, safety meetings, emergency drills, and risk assessments onboard.
• Investigate onboard incidents, near misses, equipment damage, and operational delays, and submit detailed reports.
• Ensure compliance with environmental protection procedures during dredging and disposal activities.
• Supervise emergency response situations including fire, flooding, grounding, collision, and medical emergencies.
• Monitor operational risks and implement corrective actions to ensure uninterrupted project execution.
• Promote a strong safety culture and maintain high standards of professionalism, teamwork, and operational excellence onboard the vessel.

Documentation & Reporting

• Maintain accurate vessel logbooks, dredging reports, production records, and statutory documentation.

Crew Management

• Ensure effective crew discipline, welfare, training, and competency management onboard.

Qualifications & Experience

• Master (Unlimited) certification.
• Basic and Advanced STCW training certification.
• Five to ten years of rank experience onboard Self-Propelled Cutter Suction Dredger.