Middlesbrough
Vessel Master Location: Middlesbrough Rotation: Week-on / Week-off Reporting to: Marine Superintendent Role Overview We are seeking an experienced Vessel Master to take full command of assigned vessels, ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant operations in support of port activities. This is a critical leadership role responsible for upholding the highest standards of navigation, safety, and crew management. The successful candidate will demonstrate a strong safety-first mindset, operational expertise, and the ability to perform decisively in both routine and emergency scenarios. Working closely with Marine Superintendents and port teams, you will ensure vessel readiness, regulatory compliance, and the smooth delivery of marine operations. Key Responsibilities • Take full command of vessels, ensuring safe navigation and operational excellence, • Maintain compliance with maritime legislation, including SOLAS, MARPOL, and ISM Code, as well as port and company requirements, • Ensure the safety of crew, vessel, and environment at all times, • Lead, manage, and develop onboard crew, promoting a strong safety culture, • Conduct drills and emergency response activities in line with safety procedures, • Coordinate vessel operations with port authorities and internal stakeholders, • Maintain accurate logs, records, and compliance documentation, • Liaise with Marine Superintendents and Engineering teams on maintenance and defects, • Ensure all onboard equipment is operational and well-maintained, • Support continuous improvement of onboard safety management systems Skills & Experience Essential Skills: Strong leadership and crew management capability Excellent vessel handling and navigation skills Clear and effective communication Confident decision-making, particularly under pressure Knowledge: Thorough understanding of maritime legislation (SOLAS, MARPOL, ISM Code) Strong knowledge of port operations and marine safety standards Qualifications STCW Master Certificate of Competency (CoC) < 3000 GT – Essential Valid ENG1 Medical Certificate – Essential Experience Required Proven experience as a Vessel Master or senior deck officer Background within port, coastal, or similar marine operations Personal Attributes Safety-first mindset with full accountability for vessel and crew Calm, composed, and decisive in high-pressure situations Hands-on and operationally focused Strong situational awareness and risk management ability Professional, disciplined, and compliant approach Adaptable to changing operational demands Committed to crew welfare and performance Behavioural Competencies Leads by example with strong safety and performance standards Communicates confidently with crew and stakeholders Builds effective working relationships with shore-based teams Demonstrates resilience in challenging environments Acts with integrity, transparency, and accountability Promotes a respectful and inclusive team culture Supports the development of a high-performing crew Additional Information Operates on a week-on/week-off rotation Regular vessel command and onboard presence required Involvement in drills, inspections, and compliance activities Interaction with port authorities, contractors, and stakeholders Participation in audits and regulatory inspections Responsibility for maintaining all required certifications and training