Offshore Support Engineer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the evolving landscape of offshore industries, the role of offshore support engineers has become crucial than ever.

As technology propels us into the future, the demand for skilled individuals who can maintain, optimize, and safeguard our offshore operations continues to surge.

But let’s delve deeper: What does an offshore support engineer really do?

Whether you are:

• An aspiring professional trying to understand the core of this job,
• An employer drafting the perfect profile for the ideal candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the intricacies of offshore support engineering,

You’ve landed on the right page.

Today, we reveal a comprehensive offshore support engineer job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or employment websites.

Let’s dive right in.

Offshore Support Engineer Duties and Responsibilities

Offshore Support Engineers are technical professionals who work in offshore environments, such as oil rigs or wind farms, and are responsible for the operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of various equipment and systems in these locations.

They have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Perform system installations, maintenance, and repairs on offshore equipment and machinery
• Provide technical support and troubleshooting for offshore operations
• Develop and implement preventive maintenance programs for offshore equipment
• Assess the condition of equipment and systems to identify potential risks or problems
• Coordinate with onshore teams to provide technical support and ensure efficient offshore operations
• Adhere to safety regulations and procedures to maintain a safe working environment
• Document and report on maintenance work, equipment condition, and other technical aspects
• Provide training and guidance to offshore staff on equipment operation and maintenance
• Participate in emergency response drills and activities
• Order and manage inventory of spare parts and tools necessary for offshore operations

 

Offshore Support Engineer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking to hire a dedicated Offshore Support Engineer to provide technical support and solve problems related to offshore engineering operations.

The primary responsibilities include troubleshooting issues, providing on-site repair and maintenance services, and ensuring the smooth functioning of offshore operations.

The ideal candidate should have a strong technical background, preferably in offshore engineering, with excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to work under pressure.

 

Responsibilities

• Provide technical support for offshore operations
• Troubleshoot and resolve hardware, connection, printer and software issues reported to the helpdesk
• Perform on-site repairs and maintenance
• Ensure smooth functioning of all systems and network connections
• Perform regular checks and preventive maintenance tasks
• Assist with system upgrades and the installation of new equipment
• Document problems and solutions for future reference
• Train end-users on how to setup and use new technologies
• Work with third-party vendors and technicians to resolve issues

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as an Offshore Support Engineer or similar role
• Excellent knowledge of offshore engineering operations
• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills
• Experience with network protocols and server and network infrastructure
• Good understanding of computer systems, mobile devices, and other tech products
• Familiarity with remote desktop applications and helpdesk software
• BSc degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Engineering or relevant field
• Good communication skills, both written and verbal

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Travel allowance

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Offshore Support Engineer
• Work Environment: Offshore setting with occasional office work. Travel will be necessary for offshore visits.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Offshore Operations Manager.
• 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 offshore)
• 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 an Offshore Support Engineer Do?

Offshore Support Engineers primarily work within the oil, gas, or renewable energy industries, providing crucial technical support and maintenance for offshore operations.

They play a significant role in ensuring the safety and efficiency of offshore activities, particularly those related to drilling, production, and construction.

This may involve monitoring and maintenance of oil rigs or wind turbines, troubleshooting technical problems, and coordinating repairs as needed.

Their duties often include conducting risk assessments, developing safety protocols, and ensuring all offshore equipment adheres to industry standards and regulations.

They might also be responsible for managing the installation, testing, and operation of new equipment or systems.

Offshore Support Engineers communicate frequently with onshore teams, providing updates on offshore activities and reporting any significant issues or concerns.

They may also be tasked with providing training and support to other members of the offshore team, particularly in relation to safety procedures and the use of technical equipment.

Due to the nature of offshore work, these engineers must be prepared to work in challenging weather conditions and be away from home for extended periods.

They must be capable problem solvers, able to think critically and act quickly under pressure.

 

Offshore Support Engineer Qualifications and Skills

An Offshore Support Engineer should have qualifications and skills that align with the technical and challenging nature of the role, such as:

• Strong technical knowledge and understanding of offshore operations, equipment and technology. This includes experience with subsea systems, oil and gas extraction procedures, and the management of offshore platforms.
• Exceptional problem-solving and critical thinking skills to address and resolve technical and logistical issues that may arise in offshore environments.
• Outstanding communication skills to effectively liaise with team members, other offshore personnel, and onshore support. Must be capable of conveying complex technical information in a clear and concise manner.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure, often in challenging weather conditions and in remote locations. This includes both physical endurance and mental resilience.
• Excellent organizational skills to manage multiple tasks concurrently, including maintenance schedules, equipment checks and safety procedures.
• Strong understanding of health, safety and environmental regulations pertaining to offshore operations. This includes the ability to conduct risk assessments and implement safety procedures.
• Ability to use a variety of software applications for data management, system monitoring, and technical design. This includes computer-aided design (CAD) software and other industry-specific tools.

 

Offshore Support Engineer Experience Requirements

Entry-level candidates for the Offshore Support Engineer role generally have 1 to 2 years of experience, often obtained through internships or part-time positions in offshore operations, marine engineering, or similar fields.

Candidates can also gain experience working on offshore platforms or vessels in roles such as an Offshore Technician, Marine Engineer, or in Health and Safety positions.

These roles provide valuable exposure to offshore operations and procedures.

Offshore Support Engineers with more than 3 years of experience often demonstrate advanced technical skills and knowledge in offshore operations, maintenance, and safety protocols.

Their experience often includes working on complex offshore projects, troubleshooting offshore equipment, or managing offshore maintenance work.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have leadership experience in their background.

They may have managed teams, coordinated offshore projects, or overseen safety protocols.

With this level of experience, they may be ready for roles such as an Offshore Operations Manager or Offshore Project Lead.

In many cases, employers might require a degree in Marine Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field in addition to the experience.

Experience working in harsh weather conditions and understanding the importance of safety regulations in the offshore industry is also highly valued.

 

Offshore Support Engineer Education and Training Requirements

To become an Offshore Support Engineer, it is generally required to have a bachelor’s degree in engineering.

This could be in mechanical, marine, civil or structural engineering.

Having a sound understanding of offshore operations, maintenance procedures and safety protocols is crucial.

This knowledge is usually gained during the degree program and further enhanced through on-the-job training.

Candidates with a master’s degree in engineering, or related fields, may have an advantage, especially for senior-level positions.

Certification and licensing are not always required but can provide a competitive edge.

Certifications like Certified Marine Engineer or Chartered Engineer can validate the candidate’s technical skills and knowledge.

Practical experience is often as important as formal education.

Most employers prefer candidates with hands-on experience in offshore support, maintenance, or related roles.

It’s also important to have good physical fitness and survival training, as the job may involve working in harsh conditions and emergencies.

Many companies require employees to complete a Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training (BOSIET) or similar.

Continuing education is important in this field due to the constant advancements in offshore technologies and processes.

Therefore, regular training and staying up-to-date with the latest industry trends is beneficial.

 

Offshore Support Engineer Salary Expectations

An Offshore Support Engineer can expect to earn an average salary of $72,820 (USD) per year.

However, the actual income can vary considerably based on factors such as years of experience, certifications, the specific industry, and the geographical location of the job.

 

Offshore Support Engineer Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Offshore Support Engineer need?

Offshore Support Engineers need to have strong problem-solving skills to diagnose and resolve technical issues in an offshore setting.

They should have a solid knowledge of engineering principles and offshore structures.

Besides technical skills, they also need to possess excellent communication skills to interact with other team members and stakeholders.

Strong physical fitness and the ability to work under harsh weather conditions are other prerequisites for this role.

 

Do Offshore Support Engineers need a degree?

Yes, Offshore Support Engineers typically require a bachelor’s degree in an engineering field such as mechanical, electrical, or marine engineering.

Some positions may require advanced degrees or professional engineering certification.

Furthermore, due to the nature of the job, Offshore Support Engineers usually undergo safety and survival training.

 

What should you look for in an Offshore Support Engineer’s resume?

In addition to academic qualifications, look for experience in offshore operations or related fields.

Certifications such as offshore survival and industrial safety can be advantageous.

Other desirable skills include knowledge of offshore regulatory standards, proficiency in using various engineering software, and experience in troubleshooting and maintenance of offshore equipment.

 

What qualities make a good Offshore Support Engineer?

A good Offshore Support Engineer is adaptable and can work under challenging conditions.

They should be resilient, able to stay calm under pressure, and make quick decisions.

They should be team players, able to communicate effectively with diverse teams.

A commitment to safety and the ability to comply with stringent regulations are also crucial.

 

Is it difficult to hire Offshore Support Engineers?

Yes, finding qualified Offshore Support Engineers can be challenging due to the demanding nature of the job.

The role requires specific skills and qualifications, and the work environment can be harsh and isolated.

Therefore, attracting and retaining talent can be difficult.

Offering competitive salaries, robust training programs, and clear career progression paths can help attract the right candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the dynamic and demanding role of an offshore support engineer.

Surprise, surprise!

It’s not just about troubleshooting and maintenance.

It’s about navigating the turbulent seas of technology, one technical issue at a time.

With our comprehensive offshore support engineer job description template and real-life illustrations, you’re geared up and ready to dive in.

But why drop anchor there?

Plunge deeper with our job description generator. It’s your compass towards precisely calibrated job listings or refining your CV to near-perfection.

Remember:

Every technical solution is a piece of the larger puzzle.

Let’s navigate that future. Together.

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