Chief Officer - Master License

Chief Officer – Master

Position Summary:

Reporting to the Captain and Staff Captain, The Chief Officer shall enforce compliance with all relevant international rules and regulations, including SOLAS, the Flag State, Port State, and Classification Society requirements. Responsible for ensuring access, continuity, and efficiency in the maintenance of the ship, overseeing the crew, and managing safety and security protocols.

The Chief Officer’s work schedule will be arranged in coordination with the Staff Captain. A full understanding of the Safety and Quality Management Program is essential.

Key Responsibilities:

Security & Safety

• Enforce and ensure compliance with the Ship Security Plan.

• Monitor access points, perimeter security, and conduct security inspections regularly.

• Oversee behaviour of crew and guests, intervening when necessary.

• Handle suspicious luggage, screening, and enforce safety regulations.

• Maintain knowledge of lifesaving, firefighting, and pollution prevention equipment.

• Conduct security training for new crew members.

• Investigate incidents, accidents, or non-conformities under the guidance of the Staff Captain.

• Manage gangway access, ensuring safe deployment and operation during berthing or anchoring.

• Supervise shore-side security measures when docked.

• Conduct security checks during port calls, including the first tender ashore.

• Oversee security at all points of entry, including during embarkation/disembarkation.

• Maintain accurate security records, logs, and reports.

• Coordinate with port authorities and submit required security documentation (Pre-Arrival Security Notification, Declaration of Security, etc.).

Emergency & Security Operations

• Be present during embarkation of pilots, escorting them to the bridge.

• Ensure all ship side openings, gunports, and doors are secure before departure.

• Monitor and update the departure board with accurate vessel information.

• Stay informed on global terrorist activities and countermeasures.

• Implement and train the crew on bomb search procedures and use of bomb detection equipment.

• Conduct drug and alcohol testing as required, including searches.

Regulatory & Compliance

Ensure the ship complies with all applicable standards: ISM Code, ISPS Code, SOLAS, MARPOL, MLC 2006 , STCW.

Merchant Shipping Legislation of the Flag State.

Pollution prevention protocols

International Safety Management and Security standards

Maintain accurate records of security patrols, equipment maintenance, training, and visitor logs.

Additional Duties

• Enforce company policies on crew conduct, dress code, and behaviour.

• Issue and control visitor passes, ensuring timely clearance.

• Operate and maintain security equipment; record keeping.

• Manage ship’s key system, including master/sub-master keys, locks, and inventories.

• Supervise security guards, ensuring their training and operational readiness.

• Oversee CCTV operations and security systems.

• Conduct security drills, including bomb searches, and train crew accordingly.

• Be a witness during drug and alcohol testing.

• Keep the Staff Captain informed of all significant security issues.

Infection Prevention & Control (if applicable)

• Use appropriate PPE and conduct infection control procedures.

• Assist with controlled movement of personnel requiring isolation.

• Enforce procedures during shore leave, embarkation/disembarkation, and quarantine.

Safety Duties

• Participate in crew and passenger safety drills as instructed.

• Always comply with the Company’s safety and pollution prevention regulations and operating procedures.

• Lead by example in health and safety practices for self and others.

• Ensure all work equipment, PPE, chemicals, and safety devices are used correctly.

Other Responsibilities

• Perform any duties as assigned by Senior Management.

Qualifications & Experience

• Master’s License (Unlimited)

• Valid STCW95 certification.

• Appropriate certifications as required by regulation.

• Extensive experience in subordinate roles aboard passenger ships.

• Experience with Coast Guard and Port State Control inspections.

Language

• Fluent in English (verbal, written, technical).

• Ability to give and receive instructions effectively in both verbal and written forms.

Physical & Working Conditions

• Ability to stand, walk long distances, reach, sit, and perform repetitive motions such as bending and stairs climbing.

• Capable of lifting or pushing up to 50 lbs.

• Works in all areas of the vessel, including light traffic and distracting environments.

• Overtime work and irregular schedules are required.

Place of work: onboard a cruise ship.