
Job Summary
The Technical Superintendent is responsible for the technical management of assigned Multipurpose Vessels (MPVs) and Bulk Carriers engaged in worldwide tramp trading. This role is responsible for ensuring the safe, reliable, efficient, and cost-effective operation of the assigned fleet by overseeing maintenance, repairs, statutory and Class compliance, drydockings, and technical performance.
The Technical Superintendent provides independent technical support to shipboard personnel, manages technical budgets, coordinates with shipyards, equipment makers, service providers, and suppliers, and ensures compliance with applicable international regulations and company standards.The position requires close collaboration with Classification Societies, Flag Administrations, Port State Control authorities, and other regulatory bodies to ensure compliance with SOLAS, MARPOL, ISM Code, ISPS Code, MLC, and other applicable maritime regulations. Regular overseas travel for vessel inspections, drydockings, incident investigations, and shipyard attendance is required.The successful candidate should be capable of working independently, managing multiple priorities, and performing effectively under pressure.
Key Responsibilities
Technical Management
- Ensure assigned vessels are maintained in accordance with Company procedures, Class requirements, Flag State regulations, and applicable international and local maritime regulations (e.g. USCG, AMSA, PSC and relevant MoUs).
- Plan, coordinate, and supervise maintenance, repairs, drydockings, retrofits, and technical projects.
- Ensure statutory surveys, Class surveys, certifications, calibrations, and safety-critical inspections are completed on schedule.
- Monitor vessel technical condition, machinery reliability, and operational performance to minimize off-hire and operational downtime.
- Provide technical guidance and troubleshooting support to Masters and Chief Engineers for machinery failures and operational issues.
- Ensure the Company's Planned Maintenance System (PMS) is properly implemented, maintained, and updated.
Safety, Compliance & Performance
- Promote compliance with Company safety, environmental, and quality management systems.
- Conduct regular vessel inspections, technical audits, and sailing visits in accordance with Company requirements and RightShip expectations.
- Investigate technical incidents, machinery failures, and recurring defects, and ensure effective root cause analysis and corrective actions.
- Monitor vessel performance, fuel efficiency, emissions, CII ratings, and other technical KPIs, and implement continuous improvement initiatives.
Budget & Cost Control
- Prepare and manage annual operating budgets for assigned vessels.
- Review and control maintenance expenditure, repair costs, and technical procurement within approved budgets.
- Evaluate quotations and recommend cost-effective technical solutions without compromising safety or reliability.
Project & Contract Management
- Coordinate with shipyards, equipment manufacturers, service providers, and contractors during repairs, drydockings, and technical projects.
- Support vessel acquisitions, pre-purchase inspections, vessel takeovers, newbuilding deliveries, sea trials, and guarantee claim management where required.
- Participate in technical improvement initiatives and special projects assigned by the Company.
Leadership & People Development
- Coach and support Masters, Chief Engineers, and shipboard engineering teams to improve technical standards and operational performance.
- Mentor junior Technical Superintendents, Technical Executives, and Purchasing personnel where required.
- Participate in the recruitment, interview, appraisal, and development of shipboard personnel.
- Monitor the performance and development of assigned team members and contribute to succession planning.
Key Requirements
Professional Qualification
- Class 1 Marine Engineer Officer (MEO Class 1) Certificate of Competency (Motor) or equivalent unlimited Chief Engineer Certificate of Competency.
Education
- Bachelor's Degree, Diploma, or equivalent qualification in Marine Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline.
Experience
- Previous sailing experience as Chief Engineer on merchant vessels.
- Previous experience as a Technical Superintendent is preferred.
- Experience with MPVs, Bulk Carriers, or similar vessel types will be an advantage.
Skills & Competencies
- Strong technical knowledge of marine engineering systems and shipboard operations.
- Good understanding of Class, Flag State, Port State Control, and international maritime regulations.
- Strong troubleshooting and root cause analysis skills.
- Good planning, organizational, and project management skills.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to engage effectively with ship staff and external stakeholders.
- Good commercial awareness and cost control mindset.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook).
- Good written and spoken English.
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities under pressure.
- Willingness to travel overseas at short notice when required.