3rd Officer for Saga Cruises

We are currently seeking an experienced 3rd Officer to join the cruise vessel Spirit of Adventure. Embarkation is ASAP, with a contract duration of 2 months +/-1. Candidates must possess previous experience at this rank, hold all valid certificates required for the position, and be able to provide strong references or recommendations from previous employers. Only experienced and immediately available candidates will be considered.

Position Summary

Maintain a safe navigational watch on the bridge while the vessel is at sea, at anchor, and in port in accordance with Company Policies, national or international standards, and other prescribed regulations. Assist and support the Safety Officer and Navigation Officer in every respect according to the Master’s or Staff Captain’s instructions.

Reporting Structure

Reporting to the Captain, Staff Captain and Chief Navigator. Subordinates include Quarter Master, Fire Patrol and Security Guard on duty.

Safety Duties

• Participates in crew and passenger safety drills per instructions;
• Complies with the Company’s safety and pollution prevention regulations and operating procedures;
• Leads by example by caring for the health and safety of self and others;
• Ensures all work equipment, personal protective equipment, chemicals and safety devices are used correctly.

Education / Experience / Qualifications

• Valid STCW95 certification;
• Valid CoC A-II/1;
• Appropriate certification as required by regulations;
• Thorough knowledge of and ability to use navigational charts and publications such as sailing directions, tide tables, notices to mariners, radio navigational warnings and ships' routing information;
• Physically and medically fit;
• Moral integrity;
• Coast Guard and Port State Control experience.

Language Requirements

Fluent English (verbal, written and technical). English is the working and safety language on board. This includes the ability to give and receive instructions in verbal and written forms and to effectively and efficiently engage with guests and crew members. Additional languages are considered beneficial.

Computer Knowledge

Good working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions

Required to stand, walk long distances, reach and sit. Repetitive motion of bending, going up and down stairs, climbing ladders. Lifting or pushing of up to 50 lbs. The position requires overtime work and irregular schedules. Works on the Bridge with light traffic and distracting environments.

Profile

• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to lead, motivate and develop a culturally diverse workforce;
• Punctual;
• Proactive approach to problem solving;
• Ability to be flexible, well organized, self‑managed and motivated; handle multiple demands, remain calm and effective under pressure and resolve issues quickly;
• Effective, full, clear and concise communication is essential;
• Safe, professional and personal practices;
• Fully conversant with VMS and MLC requirements;
• Well groomed and neat appearance;
• Ability to deliver a high standard of performance.

Status – Officer.

Salary – Refer to contract.

Rotation – Refer to contract.

Key Responsibilities

1. Act as the Master’s representative during Bridge watch, supervising the ‘on watch’ team and ensuring watches are carried out properly and Master’s standing orders followed. Enforce adequate rounds of the vessel and reporting equipment, malfunctions or breakdowns, performing and directing routine adjustments as necessary. Observe meteorological and tidal conditions and state of the sea. Adhere to emergency procedures and monitor bridge equipment, fire detection systems and watertight doors status.
2. Ensure a satisfactory watch is kept when the Captain or the Pilot is in command, following the orders given to the helmsman and ensuring the ship’s position at regular intervals as required, with all possible navigational means.
3. Know the handling characteristics of the vessel, including stopping distance. Have a full knowledge of every aspect of safety features of the vessel. Be fully conversant with the Company’s VMS.
4. Ensure seaworthiness of the vessel.
5. Be familiar with the operation and location of all lifesaving, fire‑fighting and pollution prevention equipment.
6. Keep a log of all watch operations and conditions.
7. Assist lower‑ranked Deck Officers in familiarizing the bridge instruments and equipment.
8. While the ship is in port observe gangways, supervise moorings and be aware of any significant work in progress as well as monitor in‑port manning duties.
9. While the ship is at anchor… (determine and plot the ship’s position on the appropriate chart, ensure efficient look‑out, inspection rounds, observe meteorological and tidal conditions, notify the Master if the ship drags the anchor, ensure main engines are ready, maintain lights, shapes, sound signals, safe tender or zodiac operations).
10. Monitor the status of navigational equipment, lights, and storage of signalling and emergency signalling on the Bridge.
11. Carry out operational tests of shipboard navigation equipment at sea as frequently as practicable.
12. Make regular checks to ensure the helmsman or automatic pilot is steering the correct course.
13. Ensure compass error determination, automatic pilot testing, and proper functioning of navigation and signalling lights. Use radars in restricted visibility or congested waters.
14. Facilitate electronic navigational aids, lay down course lines on charts, maintain hydrograph correction, check weather, and update ECDIS.