Marine Operations Manager Jobs
Marine Operations Manager jobs are open across shipping, port management, offshore energy, and maritime logistics, at levels from operations coordinator to director, with specializations in vessel scheduling, cargo handling, and fleet compliance. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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Showing 5 of 30+ Marine Operations Manager jobs
POSITION SUMMARY
The Director, Marine Operations leads the safe, compliant, dependable, and efficient operation of the Company’s fleet through direct oversight of Vessel Captains and leadership of deck department standards and performance. The role translates marine operational strategy into consistent shipboard practices that support exceptional guest experiences, safety and compliance, and responsible exploration.
Reporting to the Vice President, Marine Operations, the Director is accountable for marine operational readiness, navigational standards, Captain and Officer performance and development, and assigned budgets. Working closely with the Nautical Superintendent, Technical Operations, Compliance, Expedition Operations, Port Operations, Human Resources, and Training, the Director drives operational improvements, resolves risks, and ensures clear accountability across shared initiatives. While Technical Operations oversees vessel maintenance and engineering and Compliance provides independent assurance, the Director maintains ownership of marine operational execution, coordinates priorities and deliverables, and escalates significant operational or resource concerns to the Vice President.
Fleet Operations and Navigational Standards
- Directly supervise Captains; provide timely operational guidance, vessel visits, and follow-up on identified performance or readiness concerns.
- Establish and maintain consistent bridge and deck practices, including passage planning, navigational watchkeeping, Bridge Resource Management, and operational risk assessment.
- Review voyage plans and higher-risk operations in accordance with Company procedures; assess itinerary feasibility, vessel limitations, port requirements, weather, and remote-area support.
- Coordinate responses to operational disruptions and readiness deficiencies with vessel leaders and relevant departments; escalate unresolved risks to the Vice President.
- Maintain small boat and Zodiac operating standards with Expedition Operations and Training, including operator competence, passenger transfers, equipment readiness, and operating limits.
Marine Personnel Leadership
- Lead Captain and Deck Officer recruitment, selection, retention, development, and succession planning in partnership with Human Resources and Training.
- Review and approve officer rotations and staffing plans within delegated authority, coordinate verification of qualifications, credentials, and readiness before assignment.
- Conduct Captain appraisals, oversee officer performance reviews, and recommend promotions, transfers, disciplinary actions, and development plans under Company procedures.
Safety Compliance and Emergency Preparedness
- Implement marine operational requirements of the Safety Management System (SMS); verify consistent application through vessel visits, operational reviews, and follow-up.
- Work with Compliance to maintain operational adherence to applicable flag state, coastal state, port state, classification, and Company requirements, including certification and operational approvals.
- Lead or support marine incident and near-miss investigations as assigned; implement operational corrective actions, share lessons learned and verify effectiveness with Compliance.
- Identify recurring hazards and performance trends; maintain assigned operational risk assessments, contingency plans, and emergency procedures.
- Serve on the Company’s Emergency Response Team, participate in exercises, and provide operational support during emergencies and disruptions.
- Promote timely reporting of hazards and near misses, constructive challenge, and accountability. Support the Master’s overriding authority for vessel safety and environmental protection; promptly escalate material concerns through Company channels.
Operational Improvement and Vessel Projects
- Own assigned marine operational policies, procedures, and manuals; coordinate revisions, implementation, training, and verification of shipboard adoption.
- Identify competency gaps and coordinate practical training, coaching, and leadership development for Captains and Deck Officers with Training and the Nautical Superintendent.
- Provide marine operational requirements for drydocks, modifications, acquisitions, newbuilds, sea trials, and vessel acceptance; work with Technical Operations on readiness and return-to-service planning.
- Evaluate technology and process improvements that strengthen navigation, operational reliability, environmental performance, and the guest experience.
Financial Management and External Relations
- Prepare and manage assigned operating budgets; monitor variances, forecast needs, and recommend cost improvements consistent with safety and reliability.
- Contribute to capital planning and business cases, defining operational needs, benefits, risks, and resource requirements.
- Consult with maritime authorities, classification societies, and industry organizations as delegated, coordinate with Compliance on regulatory developments, inspections, and inquiries.
Travel: Extensive domestic and international travel, including vessel visits, inspections, drydocks, and shipyard projects.
REQUIRED QUALITFICATIONS
- Unlimited Master Mariner license or equivalent senior maritime operational experience demonstrating the competence to oversee the assigned fleet.
- At least 10 years of progressive maritime leadership experience, including service as Master and/or Chief Officer aboard passenger vessels.
- At least five years of shoreside marine operations management experience or equivalent senior command experience, with demonstrated leadership of multi-vessel operations.
- Working knowledge of applicable U.S. and international passenger-vessel requirements, including SOLAS, MARPOL, the ISM, and ISPS Codes, STCW, and the Maritime Labour Convention, as applicable to the fleet.
- Demonstrated experience applying safety management systems, navigational standards, risk assessments, incident investigations, and corrective action processes.
- Proven ability to coach vessel leaders, address performance concerns, manage competing priorities, and exercise sound judgment during emergencies and operational disruptions.
- Strong written and verbal communication, cross-functional collaboration, budget management, and organizational skills; proficiency with Microsoft Office and maritime management systems.
PREFERRED QUALITFICATIONS
- Expedition cruise, polar, and remote-area operating experience, including small boat and Zodiac operations.
- Experience with multiple flag administrations and regulatory authorities, including U.S. Coast Guard passenger-vessel oversight.
- Experience in vessel acquisitions, newbuilds, drydocks, major modifications, sea trials, or vessel acceptance.
- Advanced education or professional development in maritime leadership, safety management, business administration, or emergency management.
- Travel benefits for employees and their family
- Voyage of Discovery trips for employees to travel as guests
- Health insurance including Medical, Dental, Vision
- 401(k) plan with employer match
- Long-Term Disability, Life & AD&D Insurance
- Flexible Spending Account (FSA) to be used for out-of-pocket medical and dependent care
- Pre-Tax Commuter Benefit
- 7-8 Paid Holidays
- 1 Floating Holiday Options
- Up to 15 days of vacation (pro-rated per anniversary year)
- Parental Leave
- Sick/personal days per city & state ordinance
- Pet Insurance discount
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
POSITION SUMMARY
The Director, Marine Operations leads the safe, compliant, dependable, and efficient operation of the Company’s fleet through direct oversight of Vessel Captains and leadership of deck department standards and performance. The role translates marine operational strategy into consistent shipboard practices that support exceptional guest experiences, safety and compliance, and responsible exploration.
Reporting to the Vice President, Marine Operations, the Director is accountable for marine operational readiness, navigational standards, Captain and Officer performance and development, and assigned budgets. Working closely with the Nautical Superintendent, Technical Operations, Compliance, Expedition Operations, Port Operations, Human Resources, and Training, the Director drives operational improvements, resolves risks, and ensures clear accountability across shared initiatives. While Technical Operations oversees vessel maintenance and engineering and Compliance provides independent assurance, the Director maintains ownership of marine operational execution, coordinates priorities and deliverables, and escalates significant operational or resource concerns to the Vice President.
Fleet Operations and Navigational Standards
- Directly supervise Captains; provide timely operational guidance, vessel visits, and follow-up on identified performance or readiness concerns.
- Establish and maintain consistent bridge and deck practices, including passage planning, navigational watchkeeping, Bridge Resource Management, and operational risk assessment.
- Review voyage plans and higher-risk operations in accordance with Company procedures; assess itinerary feasibility, vessel limitations, port requirements, weather, and remote-area support.
- Coordinate responses to operational disruptions and readiness deficiencies with vessel leaders and relevant departments; escalate unresolved risks to the Vice President.
- Maintain small boat and Zodiac operating standards with Expedition Operations and Training, including operator competence, passenger transfers, equipment readiness, and operating limits.
Marine Personnel Leadership
- Lead Captain and Deck Officer recruitment, selection, retention, development, and succession planning in partnership with Human Resources and Training.
- Review and approve officer rotations and staffing plans within delegated authority, coordinate verification of qualifications, credentials, and readiness before assignment.
- Conduct Captain appraisals, oversee officer performance reviews, and recommend promotions, transfers, disciplinary actions, and development plans under Company procedures.
Safety Compliance and Emergency Preparedness
- Implement marine operational requirements of the Safety Management System (SMS); verify consistent application through vessel visits, operational reviews, and follow-up.
- Work with Compliance to maintain operational adherence to applicable flag state, coastal state, port state, classification, and Company requirements, including certification and operational approvals.
- Lead or support marine incident and near-miss investigations as assigned; implement operational corrective actions, share lessons learned and verify effectiveness with Compliance.
- Identify recurring hazards and performance trends; maintain assigned operational risk assessments, contingency plans, and emergency procedures.
- Serve on the Company’s Emergency Response Team, participate in exercises, and provide operational support during emergencies and disruptions.
- Promote timely reporting of hazards and near misses, constructive challenge, and accountability. Support the Master’s overriding authority for vessel safety and environmental protection; promptly escalate material concerns through Company channels.
Operational Improvement and Vessel Projects
- Own assigned marine operational policies, procedures, and manuals; coordinate revisions, implementation, training, and verification of shipboard adoption.
- Identify competency gaps and coordinate practical training, coaching, and leadership development for Captains and Deck Officers with Training and the Nautical Superintendent.
- Provide marine operational requirements for drydocks, modifications, acquisitions, newbuilds, sea trials, and vessel acceptance; work with Technical Operations on readiness and return-to-service planning.
- Evaluate technology and process improvements that strengthen navigation, operational reliability, environmental performance, and the guest experience.
Financial Management and External Relations
- Prepare and manage assigned operating budgets; monitor variances, forecast needs, and recommend cost improvements consistent with safety and reliability.
- Contribute to capital planning and business cases, defining operational needs, benefits, risks, and resource requirements.
- Consult with maritime authorities, classification societies, and industry organizations as delegated, coordinate with Compliance on regulatory developments, inspections, and inquiries.
Travel: Extensive domestic and international travel, including vessel visits, inspections, drydocks, and shipyard projects.
REQUIRED QUALITFICATIONS
- Unlimited Master Mariner license or equivalent senior maritime operational experience demonstrating the competence to oversee the assigned fleet.
- At least 10 years of progressive maritime leadership experience, including service as Master and/or Chief Officer aboard passenger vessels.
- At least five years of shoreside marine operations management experience or equivalent senior command experience, with demonstrated leadership of multi-vessel operations.
- Working knowledge of applicable U.S. and international passenger-vessel requirements, including SOLAS, MARPOL, the ISM, and ISPS Codes, STCW, and the Maritime Labour Convention, as applicable to the fleet.
- Demonstrated experience applying safety management systems, navigational standards, risk assessments, incident investigations, and corrective action processes.
- Proven ability to coach vessel leaders, address performance concerns, manage competing priorities, and exercise sound judgment during emergencies and operational disruptions.
- Strong written and verbal communication, cross-functional collaboration, budget management, and organizational skills; proficiency with Microsoft Office and maritime management systems.
PREFERRED QUALITFICATIONS
- Expedition cruise, polar, and remote-area operating experience, including small boat and Zodiac operations.
- Experience with multiple flag administrations and regulatory authorities, including U.S. Coast Guard passenger-vessel oversight.
- Experience in vessel acquisitions, newbuilds, drydocks, major modifications, sea trials, or vessel acceptance.
- Advanced education or professional development in maritime leadership, safety management, business administration, or emergency management.
- Travel benefits for employees and their family
- Voyage of Discovery trips for employees to travel as guests
- Health insurance including Medical, Dental, Vision
- 401(k) plan with employer match
- Long-Term Disability, Life & AD&D Insurance
- Flexible Spending Account (FSA) to be used for out-of-pocket medical and dependent care
- Pre-Tax Commuter Benefit
- 7-8 Paid Holidays
- 1 Floating Holiday Options
- Up to 15 days of vacation (pro-rated per anniversary year)
- Parental Leave
- Sick/personal days per city & state ordinance
- Pet Insurance discount
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
Marine Operations Manager Jobs by Experience Level
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Find JobsMarine Operations Manager Job Market
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Manufacturing
What Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in marine operations manager jobs.
- Five or more years of direct marine or port operations experience
- Active TWIC card and current STCW certification
- Working knowledge of ISM Code, ISPS Code, and USCG regulations
- Experience managing vessel scheduling, cargo operations, or fleet logistics
- Bachelor's degree in marine transportation, logistics, or a related field
- Proficiency with fleet management or port operations software systems
Tips for Your Marine Operations Manager Job Search
Tailor your resume to vessel types
Hiring managers scan for the specific vessels or fleet types you have managed, whether tankers, bulk carriers, tugboats, or offshore support vessels. Name them explicitly rather than writing 'various marine assets' so your resume clears keyword filters immediately.
Certify credentials before you apply
Many marine operations manager roles require active STCW certificates, TWIC cards, or Coast Guard credentials. Confirm your certifications are current before applying, because an expired credential will disqualify you even if your experience is otherwise strong.
Apply early to roles that fit
Migrate Mate lists marine operations manager openings from across the United States in one place, so you can find roles that match and apply directly to each listing.
Target postings that match your regulatory depth
Job descriptions vary widely between roles governed by USCG domestic regulations and those requiring ISM Code or ISPS compliance for international operations. Reading the regulatory scope in a posting first helps you decide whether your compliance background actually fits before you spend time applying.
Prepare port-specific examples for interviews
Interviewers for marine operations roles frequently ask about cargo throughput challenges, terminal coordination, or incident response scenarios. Preparing two or three specific examples from your own operations, with context about the port or waterway involved, makes your answers concrete rather than generic.
Negotiate relocation terms before accepting
Many marine operations manager roles are tied to a specific port, terminal, or coastal facility, leaving little flexibility on location. Confirm whether the employer covers relocation costs and housing allowances before you reach the offer stage, because these terms rarely come up unless you raise them.
Marine Operations Manager Jobs: Frequently Asked Questions
Which companies are hiring the most marine operations managers?
Hornblower, Summit Fire & Security, and Brunswick are hiring the most marine operations managers right now, with openings concentrated in Texas, Florida, and California, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. Activity shifts with seasonal cargo cycles and offshore project timelines, so checking listings regularly gives you the most accurate picture.
How many marine operations manager jobs are remote?
About 9% of marine operations manager openings are fully remote or hybrid as of November 2026, reflecting the fundamentally on-site nature of port and vessel work. The sub-areas most likely to offer remote or hybrid arrangements include fleet documentation, regulatory compliance coordination, and logistics planning roles that do not require a physical presence at a terminal or aboard a vessel.
How do you become a marine operations manager?
Most marine operations managers start in a deck officer, port operations, or logistics coordinator role and build experience across vessel scheduling, cargo handling, or terminal coordination. Earning STCW certification and a TWIC card early establishes the regulatory baseline most employers require. From there, moving into a supervisory role overseeing a team or a vessel fleet is the standard path to a manager-level position.
Can you get hired as a marine operations manager without direct management experience?
Some employers will hire candidates with strong operational backgrounds into marine operations manager roles if they have deep knowledge of vessel types, port procedures, or compliance frameworks. Focusing your applications on smaller operators, inland waterway companies, or companies expanding into new trade lanes increases your chances, since these employers are more likely to develop candidates from within their operations teams.
What does the marine operations manager interview process look like?
The process typically starts with a phone screen covering your regulatory knowledge and operational background, followed by a structured interview with the operations director or port manager that focuses on scenario-based questions about incident response, vessel delays, and crew coordination. Some employers include a site visit to a terminal or facility as part of the final round, particularly for roles with direct responsibility for a specific port operation.
Where can I find and apply to marine operations manager jobs?
You can find and apply to marine operations manager jobs on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings from across the United States in one place. Find roles that match your experience and credentials, then apply directly to each listing that fits.
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