Director of Marine Operations - Bowhead Transport LLC

Bowhead Transport LLC is seeking an experienced, results-driven Director of Marine Operations to lead and enhance the performance of our fleet and ensure the efficient operation of all marine activities. This position is responsible for overseeing the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of our vessels, driving continuous improvement in marine operations, crew management, regulatory compliance, and operational performance.

The Director of Operations, will manage the day-to-day vessel operations of Bowhead Transport, supervising all marine-related personnel. This position will organize, coordinate, and administer seasonal marine operations, ensuring optimal performance while adhering to best practices. In addition, this position will oversee hiring, evaluating, and discharging employees, ensuring the workforce is well-organized, capable, and aligned with company needs.

The successful candidate will lead and direct all management staff and vessel assets, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements in coordination with the companies Safety Management System (SMS) through the Health, Safety & Environmental Manager. Regular communication with the Manager of Engineering, Port Captain, Senior Cargo Manager and Port Engineer is essential to ensure that the vessel management structure is aligned and that all marine voyages, cargo, and freight operations comply with USCG, ABS, ADEC, and other relevant state and local agencies.

Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities:

Operational & Fleet Management:

• Direct daily marine operations, ensuring vessels operate safely, efficiently, and within budget.
• Develop and implement operational strategies to optimize fleet performance.
• Oversee vessel schedules, maintenance plans, and voyage logistics.
• Ensure compliance with all maritime regulations, including USCG, OSHA, ABS, Subchapter M, OCIMF, ISM, and ISO 9001.
• Lead cross-functional teams overseeing operations managers, vessel crews, and shoreside personnel to optimize loading, discharge, and cargo operations.
• Oversee incident reporting, investigations, and corrective actions to ensure compliance and safety.
• Oversee and ensure safe, efficient, and timely handling of cargo across all vessels, ensuring compliance with industry standards and customer specifications.
• Oversee, develop, and implement best practices for cargo stowage, cargo securing, and handling operations, optimizing space and weight distribution for safe transit.
• Ensure adherence to cargo documentation, including bills of lading, manifest reports, and customs clearance requirements for international and domestic shipments.
• Supervise, manage, and coordinate freight logistics, including vessel loading, unloading, and transshipment operations, ensuring on-time delivery and reducing operational delays.
• Ensure compliance with all maritime cargo regulations, including IMDG, SOLAS, International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code, and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) regulations.
• Coordinate with port authorities, freight forwarders, and customs brokers to ensure efficient clearance and handling of cargo at ports.
• Manage and mitigate risks associated with marine cargo operations, ensuring damage-free delivery and compliance with cargo insurance requirements.
• Implement cargo handling training for crew members to ensure the proper use of equipment and adherence to safety protocols.
• Maintain regular communication with clients and customers regarding cargo status, shipment schedules, and delivery timelines.
  
  
  

Crew & Personnel Leadership:

• Lead and mentor administrative staff, vessel crews, and shoreside marine personnel to foster a productive and cohesive workforce.
• Work with HR and HSE Manager to recruit, train, and evaluate marine staff performance.
• Oversee crew scheduling and ensure compliance with work/rest regulations.
  
  
  

Financial & Budget Oversight:

• Assist in developing and managing the marine operations budget to ensure fiscal responsibility.
• Monitor and control operational costs and capital expenditures (CapEx).
• Oversee company assets, work orders, preventive maintenance programs, and equipment inventory.
  
  
  

Stakeholder & Business Engagement:

• Represent Bowhead Transport in industry meetings, regulatory discussions, and client relationships.
• Maintain relationships with clients, regulatory agencies, and business partners to ensure continued compliance and growth.
  
  
  

Asset & Maintenance Management:

• Working in coordination with the Director of Operational Integrity to ensure all Quality Management Systems (QMS) are implemented, evaluated, and accountable.
• Work closely with engineering teams to ensure vessels are maintained and ready for operations.
• Oversee dry-docking and planned maintenance activities to ensure operational readiness.
  
  
  

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

• Experience: Minimum 10 years in marine operations, vessel management, fleet operations, or Alaska-specific logistics.
• Education: Bachelor degree in Marine Transportation, Marine Engineering, Business Management, or a related field preferred (equivalent experience will be considered).
• Certifications: USCG License (Master, Master of Tow or Chief Engineer) is strongly preferred but not required.
• Skills: Strong leadership, decision-making, and communication skills; ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Technical Knowledge: Familiarity with vessel operations, regulatory compliance, and marine engineering best practices. QMS, SMS, EMS systems.
  
  
  

Work Conditions:

• This position requires a combination of office-based management and possibility of on-site vessel oversight.
• Travel may be required to vessel locations, industry events, and regulatory meetings.
  
  
  

Physical Requirements:

• Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Must be able to stand, walk, twist, bend, and squat periodically for extended periods.
  
  
  

How to Apply:

Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter to by 2/28/2025. Bowhead Transport LLC is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and professional workplace.