Tug Master

Role overview

Vessel and tug operations

• Assist the duty pilot with berthing and unberthing vessels at Mina Zayed, Free Port, Musaffah, KP, or other locations as required.
• Assist suction trailer dredgers in maintaining a safe position while discharging dredged material.
• Operate port tugs, navigation buoy tender vessels, antipollution vessels, and speed boats as required.
• Manage tow rope deployment and securing; inspect for chafing, oil stains, or burn marks and arrange replacement when needed.
• Maintain tug condition and cleanliness; inspect deck equipment and machinery, and monitor deck maintenance work.
• Secure deck items and take safety precautions to protect crew and tug in bad weather.

Safety, reporting, and compliance

• Take responsibility for tug and crew safety and inspect safety gear, deck machinery, and firefighting equipment daily.
• Report daily duties, mechanical defects, engine or generator failures, crew problems, and incidents to the Chief Tug Master.
• Report accidents or incidents promptly to the duty pilot, Port Control, and Chief Tug Master, and submit a written report before leaving port.
• Report defects or breakdowns of navigation aids, deck equipment, or machinery to the Chief Tug Master or Marine Operations Manager.
• Keep vessel stability within safe limits and regularly calculate and log it; liaise with the Vessel Master to maintain MARPOL compliance.

Crew and equipment administration

• Prepare requisitions for tug stores and equipment, follow up on outstanding requisitions, and inform the Chief Tug Master or Marine Operations Manager.
• Check, maintain, and report marine craft crew attendance.
• Conduct Masters’ Management Reviews, assess and record crew competence, and train newly appointed trainee Tug Masters.
• Plan, recommend, and execute training programs to reduce delays and improve craft and crew performance.

Qualifications and experience

• Secondary school education and a valid Tug Master certificate issued by an approved Maritime Authority.
• Minimum 3–5 years of relevant Main Port experience in berthing, unberthing, and towing vessels of different sizes and types, using ASD and Voith Schneider propulsion systems.
• Experience with tug and tender vessel handling, ship husbandry and maintenance, vessel construction and stability, and crew management.
• Experience in visual and instrument navigation and using radar, GPS, and echo sounder in restricted visibility.

Knowledge and language

• Must be well trained to operate radar, echo sounder, and satellite GPS.
• Must understand maritime rules of the road, navigation lights, and precautions to avoid collisions at sea.
• Must be familiar with international radio telephony procedures and distress signals.
• Written and spoken English is necessary; Arabic is preferred.