Director of Vessel Management

About Us

The Carline Companies are a leading tugboat and barge fleeting company operating on the Mississippi River in Louisiana and Texas, with a workforce of 180 employees. Our commitment to excellence in maritime operations has established us as a key player in the industry.

Position Overview

The Director of Vessel Management is a critical upper management role reporting directly to the CEO. This position is responsible for overseeing the performance, maintenance, and operational efficiency of our fleet, as well as monitoring crew performance and customer satisfaction. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in maritime operations, preferably with blue or brown water experience, and possess excellent communication and negotiation skills.

This is a fully in-person role based at our office in Geismar, Louisiana. The successful candidate will be required to live near Geismar, Louisiana, as remote work is not available for this position.

Key Responsibilities

Vessel Oversight

• Conduct regular vessel inspections, focusing on vessel condition, safety, and seaworthiness
• Monitor and report on non-skid surfaces, internal/external upkeep, mechanical/engine room status, and safety equipment

Maintenance Management

• Collaborate with the maintenance department to follow up on repairs and maintenance tasks
• Monitor engine conditions and hours
• Utilize and monitor our preventative maintenance program Sinex

Logistics and Utilization

• Communicate with our logistics department and utilize our vessel traffic program Tow Works
• Understand and optimize vessel logistics and operating locations
• Monitor and report on vessel utilization

Crew Relations

• Develop and maintain positive relationships with vessel crews
• Observe and report on crew performance without direct supervisory authority

Supply Chain and Cost Management

• Oversee onboard supply inventory management
• Implement cost management strategies

Reporting and Communication

• Prepare and distribute comprehensive reports on vessel conditions, utilization, supplies, unplanned outages, and outstanding maintenance items
• Maintain detailed notes and documentation

Customer Service

• Monitor and report on service quality and any service failures
• Recommend improvements to enhance customer satisfaction

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in maritime operations, preferably with blue or brown water background
• Naval experience is highly valued but not exclusively required
• Strong understanding of tugboat operations, particularly on inland waterways
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills
• Proven ability to influence and coordinate across departments without formal authority
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Proficiency in relevant maritime software and reporting systems

Key Attributes

• Strategic thinker with a hands-on approach to vessel management
• Ability to build relationships and collaborate effectively across all levels of the organization
• Strong commitment to safety and regulatory compliance
• Proactive and results-oriented mindset
• Outstanding communication skills with a focus on teamwork
• Excellent collaborator with strong interpersonal and team communication abilities
• Demonstrates exceptional interpersonal communication skills with a proven ability to foster effective teamwork and collaboration
• Enjoys working outside and being on the boats

Reporting Structure

This position reports directly to the CEO and works closely with various departments including Operations, Maintenance, and Risk Management. While not directly supervising vessel crews or having any involvement in vessel crewing activities, the Director of Vessel Management plays a crucial role in monitoring and reporting on overall fleet and crew performance.

Qualified candidates are invited to submit their resume and a cover letter detailing their relevant experience and qualifications for this exciting opportunity. Please note that this position requires full-time presence at our Geismar, Louisiana office, and candidates must be willing to relocate to the area if not already local.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $125,000.00 - $150,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 10 hour shift
• Monday to Friday
• On call
• Weekends as needed

Experience:

• Blue or brown water: 3 years (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Geismar, LA 70734: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $125,000 - $150,000