Marine Operations Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the age of global commerce and transoceanic transportation, the role of a Marine Operations Manager has never been more critical.

As global trade surges forward, the demand for proficient professionals to oversee, streamline, and secure our marine operations continues to rise.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a Marine Operations Manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager detailing the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of marine operations management,

You’ve navigated to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Marine Operations Manager job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Marine Operations Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Marine Operations Managers are responsible for overseeing the daily operations of marine vessels and facilities while ensuring safety and compliance with maritime laws and regulations.

They often manage teams of seafarers and marine support staff, ensuring optimal performance and productivity.

They have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Plan, organize, and manage the operations and maintenance of marine vessels and equipment
• Ensure all operations are carried out in accordance with set standards and procedures
• Develop and implement safety and emergency procedures, conducting regular drills and training sessions
• Ensure adherence to local and international maritime laws and regulations
• Supervise the loading and unloading of cargo and passengers, ensuring safety and efficiency
• Coordinate the scheduling and deployment of marine vessels
• Manage budgets and financial planning, including procurement and maintenance costs
• Work closely with port authorities, customs officials, and other relevant stakeholders
• Recruit, train and supervise marine staff, promoting a culture of safety and efficiency
• Develop and implement strategies for improving operational efficiency and customer satisfaction
• Manage crisis situations, such as accidents or severe weather conditions, ensuring the safety of crew, passengers, and cargo
• Monitor the condition of vessels and equipment, arranging for necessary repairs or replacements

 

Marine Operations Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Marine Operations Manager to oversee our marine operations.

This role involves managing shipboard personnel, ensuring marine safety standards, coordinating ship maintenance, and managing budgets.

The successful candidate will have a solid understanding of the marine industry, possess excellent leadership skills, and have a strong background in managing marine operations.

 

Responsibilities

• Manage and oversee shipboard personnel and marine operations
• Ensure compliance with local, national, and international maritime regulations
• Coordinate routine maintenance and repairs of vessels
• Develop and manage marine operation budgets
• Ensure marine safety standards and procedures are followed
• Coordinate staff training and development programs
• Monitor and assess performance of marine operations
• Coordinate shipping schedules and routes
• Manage relationships with clients, suppliers, and maritime authorities

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a managerial role within the marine industry
• Comprehensive knowledge of maritime regulations and standards
• Strong leadership and team management skills
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities
• Ability to manage budgets and resources
• Strong communication skills and the ability to liaise with various stakeholders
• Relevant certification or degree in Maritime Studies, Business Administration or related field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Marine Operations Manager
• Work Environment: This role involves a mix of office-based work and on-site visits to ships and maritime facilities. Some travel may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Marine Operations.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $80,000 minimum to $150,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Marine Operations Manager Do?

Marine Operations Managers are responsible for overseeing and managing all operations related to marine vessels and facilities.

They typically work for shipping companies, port authorities, or offshore oil and gas companies.

Their primary duty is to ensure that all marine operations are conducted safely, efficiently, and in compliance with regulatory standards.

This includes coordinating and supervising the loading and unloading of cargo, managing vessel maintenance and repairs, and implementing safety and security protocols.

Marine Operations Managers also oversee the hiring, training, and scheduling of crew members.

They may also be responsible for negotiating contracts and managing budgets related to marine operations.

They collaborate closely with other departments, such as logistics, legal, and finance, to ensure efficient operations.

They may also liaise with external stakeholders such as port authorities, customs officials, and regulators.

In case of emergencies or incidents at sea, the Marine Operations Manager is responsible for coordinating response efforts and conducting investigations.

Their ultimate goal is to ensure that marine operations are conducted safely, cost-effectively, and within the framework of maritime laws and regulations.

 

Marine Operations Manager Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Marine Operations Manager should possess a set of distinct skills and qualifications to ensure efficient management of marine operations, such as:

• Advanced knowledge of marine operations and the shipping industry to effectively manage operations and identify potential areas for improvement.
• Strong leadership and management skills to lead the team, ensuring productivity, and fostering a positive working environment.
• Excellent communication skills to liaise with different stakeholders, such as crew members, port officials, and clients, ensuring clear and effective communication.
• Problem-solving skills to identify and resolve operational issues promptly and efficiently to minimize disruptions in operations.
• Organizational skills to manage multiple tasks concurrently, ensuring the smooth operation of marine activities.
• Ability to comply with international maritime laws and regulations, ensuring operations are conducted within the legal framework.
• Technical skills and knowledge of navigation systems, safety procedures, and ship handling.
• Financial acumen to manage budgeting and financial planning of marine operations effectively.
• Physical fitness and resilience to handle the demanding nature of the job, including potential emergency situations.

 

Marine Operations Manager Experience Requirements

Marine Operations Managers generally need to have a significant amount of work experience in a marine-related field, often 5 to 7 years, with a focus on operations management.

This experience can be gained through roles such as Marine Superintendent, Port Manager, or Vessel Operations Manager.

Candidates are expected to have experience dealing with logistics, supply chain, and marine equipment.

Experience in coordination and control of shipping and docking activities, managing crews, and ensuring safety compliance are generally essential for this role.

Those applying for senior or director-level marine operations management roles are often required to have more than 10 years of experience.

This should include strategic planning, budgeting, and resource allocation within marine operations, as well as experience leading and managing large teams.

Certification from recognized maritime institutions and knowledge of maritime laws and regulations will strengthen the candidates’ profile.

Additionally, experience with emergency response planning and execution is highly valued.

Furthermore, some roles may require experience with specific types of vessels or operations, like offshore operations, container ships, or bulk carriers.

 

Marine Operations Manager Education and Training Requirements

A Marine Operations Manager typically holds a bachelor’s degree in marine engineering, marine transportation, or a similar field.

This education provides a foundation in areas such as ship handling, navigation, marine safety, and maritime law.

In addition to a relevant degree, a certain level of hands-on experience in marine operations is often required.

This can be gained through roles such as a deck officer or engineer on board a ship.

Marine Operations Managers are often required to hold certain certifications, such as those issued by the United States Coast Guard or the International Maritime Organization.

These certifications attest to an individual’s competence in areas like vessel management, safety procedures, and maritime regulations.

In many cases, a Master’s degree in maritime operations or a related field may be advantageous for roles with more responsibility or for individuals aiming for senior management positions.

Continual professional development is important in this role due to the evolving nature of maritime technology and regulations.

Therefore, pursuing additional courses and training in areas such as port management, logistics, and maritime law can be beneficial.

Lastly, a Marine Operations Manager needs to have good physical health and often undergo regular medical check-ups, as the role sometimes requires working in challenging physical conditions.

 

Marine Operations Manager Salary Expectations

A Marine Operations Manager earns an average salary of $74,103 (USD) per year.

This salary can fluctuate based on factors such as experience, specific skills, location, and the company for which they work.

 

Marine Operations Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Marine Operations Manager need?

A Marine Operations Manager should have excellent leadership skills and the ability to coordinate and manage a diverse team.

They should have a comprehensive understanding of marine operations and logistics, as well as a deep knowledge of maritime regulations and safety standards.

Good problem-solving skills, ability to make decisions under pressure, and excellent communication are also crucial in this role.

 

Do Marine Operations Managers need a degree?

Yes, most Marine Operations Managers have a bachelor’s degree in marine science, marine engineering, or a related field.

However, extensive experience in maritime operations can sometimes replace the need for a degree.

Additional certifications related to maritime safety, shipping, and logistics can be beneficial.

 

What should you look for in a Marine Operations Manager’s resume?

A Marine Operations Manager’s resume should clearly outline their experience in maritime operations, specifically in managing and coordinating marine operations.

It’s beneficial if they have experience in a leadership role.

Their resume should also show a solid understanding of maritime laws and regulations, safety protocols, and logistics.

Any specialized certifications or training should also be included.

 

What qualities make a good Marine Operations Manager?

A good Marine Operations Manager is an effective leader who can motivate and coordinate a team.

They should have strong problem-solving skills and the ability to make critical decisions under pressure.

A high level of organization is important, as is the ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders.

Furthermore, they should be knowledgeable about all aspects of marine operations, including safety standards and maritime regulations.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Marine Operations Manager?

Hiring a Marine Operations Manager can be challenging as it requires finding a candidate with a unique blend of maritime knowledge, leadership abilities, and operational management skills.

It’s important to ensure the candidate has a thorough understanding of marine laws, safety protocols, and operation logistics.

Therefore, the hiring process may take some time and careful consideration.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

We’ve just dived deep into what it truly means to be a Marine Operations Manager.

And it’s not all about steering the ship.

It’s about orchestrating the rhythm of the sea, one tide at a time.

Equipped with our comprehensive Marine Operations Manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to set sail.

But why drop anchor here?

Submerge further with our job description generator. It’s your next destination for creating precise listings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every tide is part of the vast ocean.

Let’s navigate this journey. Together.

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