Staff Captain

Staff Captain

Position Summary

The Staff Captain is the first officer in command onboard. The Staff Captain holds the highest authority within the ship’s deck department, overseeing all operational, safety, security, and regulatory matters. They are responsible for ensuring the vessel’s safe, efficient, and compliant operation.

Essential duties and responsibilities

Leadership & Command:

• Exercise overall command and responsibility for the vessel’s quality, safety, environmental protection, and efficient operation; ensure compliance with international conventions, national regulations, and company policies.
• Lead voyage planning and passage planning mover sight; approve voyage and passage plans, ensure proper checks and two-person validation where required; monitor navigation practices and bridge readiness.
• Develop and maintain effective working relationships with the pilot, bridge team, and department heads; monitor the performance of the bridge and ensure adherence to the Navigation Policy and Procedures.
• Ensure all bridge equipment is functioning properly; supervise and regulate watchkeeping, navigation, collision avoidance, and related safety procedures; issue clear instructions as needed.
• Enforce environmental policies and drive continuous improvement of environmental performance; liaise with the Environmental Officer and shoreside teams on sustainability and regulatory compliance.
• Oversee crew training and performance, including officer and crew development, safety drills, and mass casualty or emergency response readiness.
• Manage budgetary considerations and monitor vessel expenditures in coordination with the Chief Engineer and Hotel Director; pursue cost-efficiency opportunities where appropriate.
• Maintain and oversee documentation and records(logs, certificates, policies, contingency plans) to ensure compliance and readiness for audits and inspections.
• Act as the primary point of contact for regulatory authorities and external stakeholders when required; arrange and participate in inspections, audits, and port state control visits.
• Ensure guest safety and experience by promoting a professional, courteous, and responsive onboard environment; set high standards for officer and crew conduct.
• Lead succession planning and continuity of command; ensure appropriate handovers, training, and knowledge transfer among bridge officers.

Qualifications & Training

• Education and Licensing: Master’s license(unlimited) with appropriate navigation/bridge credentials; STCW proficiency as required by vessel type and flag state.
• Experience: Significant maritime command experience; proven ability to manage ship operations, navigation planning, safety, and environmental programs; demonstrated leadership and decision making under pressure.
• Training: Comprehensive training in bridge management, firefighting, environmental awareness, and Safety Management System(ISM/ISO); training in risk assessment, incident management, and public health as applicable.
• Skills: Strong leadership, organizational, and administrative capabilities; excellent communication and decision-making skills; proficient in navigation systems and related software; ability to coordinate cross-departmental activities and respond to emergencies.

Language Requirements

• Excellent English reading, writing, and verbal communication skills to understand procedures, write reports, and communicate with crew, guests, and shore-side management.
• Additional languages are advantageous but not required.

Physical & Environmental Requirements

• Physical: Regular standing and walking; ability to perform tasks on the bridge and in various shipboard environments; capable of lifting up to 50 pounds as needed.
• Vision: Normal or corrected vision; ability to read gauges, charts, logs, and procedures; depth and color perception as required for navigation and safety tasks.
• Environmental: Work in a maritime environment with varied weather, sea conditions, and shipboard operations; exposure to noise, vibrations, and hazards typical of a busy vessel; required to wear appropriate PPE; participate in safety drills and emergency procedures; may involve long hours and rotating shifts. Full use of arms, legs, vision, hearing, and coordination is required to perform duties effectively.

Additional Notes: 

• Candidates must be committed to safety andenvironmental standards. 
• Work involves physical activity and exposure tochallenging environments.