1st Officer

1st Officer

The 1st Officer Navigation is a licensed watch-keeping officer responsible for safe navigation and bridge operations. The 1st Officer stands the navigational watch, assists with voyage planning, chart updates, weather interpretation, and navigation safety responsibilities, and supports the Master, Staff Captain, and other senior officers. This role may also assist with deck operations and safety planning as required, while adhering to Safety, Quality, and Environmental standards.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist in the navigation watch duties, voyage planning, chart updates, weather interpretation, and navigation safety responsibilities.
• Support safe mooring and anchoring operations; assist with docking/undocking as required.
• Check, test, and assist with safety and lifesaving gear/equipment; report maintenance needs and ensure equipment readiness.
• Read and interpret navigational notices, weather forecasts, and notices to mariners; assist with route planning and weather routing as needed.
• Ensure compliance with ISM/ISO, SQM, USPH, and environmental and safety policies; participate in drills and safety trainings.
• Assist with deck maintenance and administrative tasks as directed by senior officers.
• Maintain logs, records, and reports; facilitate communication between the bridge, engine room, and other departments as required.
• Attend training and ongoing professional development to stay current with regulatory changes and navigational best practices.
• Perform other duties as required by supervision to support vessel operations.

Qualifications & Training

Mandatory:

• Nav. Watch Officer License (OOW) Without Limitations.
• STCW certification appropriate to the role and vessel requirements.
• Experience in navigation watch procedures, bridge operations, and deck activities.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills; ability to work under pressure and exercise sound judgment.
• Proficiency with nautical charts, navigation software, and related electronic systems.

Language Requirements:

Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English to understand procedures and communicate with crew and supervisors. Additional languages are advantageous but not required.

Physical & Environmental Requirements

Physical: Regularly stand, walk, and perform tasks on the bridge and deck; ability to lift up to 50 pounds as needed; able to work in varied environmental conditions.

Vision: Close and distance vision, depth perception, colour vision, and ability to adjust focus.

Environmental: Work at sea in diverse weather conditions; exposure to noise and shipboard hazards; must wear appropriate PPE and participate in emergency drills; night and shift work may be required. Full use of arms, legs, vision, hearing, and coordination is required to perform duties effectively.

Additional Notes:

Candidates must be committed to safety and environmental standards. Work involves physical activity and exposure to challenging environments.