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Manaaki Marine is recruiting on behalf of an established marine infrastructure and construction business for an experienced Tug & Barge Operator to join its marine operations team.
This is a varied, hands-on position combining tug and dumb barge operations with practical marine construction work.
We’re looking for someone who is confident on the helm but equally comfortable stepping onto the deck, handling lines, supporting lifting operations and pitching in with the wider team when required.
If you're looking for a role where every day brings something different, this could be a great fit.
You'll operate single and twin-screw harbour tugs, primarily supporting the movement, positioning and management of dumb barges associated with marine construction projects.
Once the tug and barge are where they need to be, the job doesn't stop.
You'll work alongside the wider project team supporting marine construction activities and generally turning your hand to whatever is required to keep the operation moving safely and efficiently.
The role is predominantly Auckland based, although some projects may require work outside the Auckland region.
Operating single and twin-screw harbour tugs
Towing, manoeuvring and positioning dumb barges
Berthing, unberthing and close-quarters vessel manoeuvring
Handling mooring and towing equipment
Supporting mobilisation and demobilisation of marine plant
Assisting crews with practical marine construction activities
Working alongside crane, rigging and piling operations
Carrying out general deck and vessel duties
Maintaining high standards of vessel safety and housekeeping
Supporting the wider project team wherever required
You'll need to be a competent and experienced commercial vessel operator with:
Previous experience operating single and twin-screw harbour tugs
Practical experience moving and positioning dumb barges
Strong boat-handling and close-quarters manoeuvring skills
Confidence working around marine construction operations
Good communication and teamwork skills
A strong understanding of safe working practices
A practical, hands-on attitude
A willingness to work outside your core skippering duties
Most importantly, we're looking for someone who is not afraid to roll up their sleeves and get involved.
Experience in any of the following would be a significant advantage:
Crane operations
Dogman / dogging
Rigging and lifting operations
Marine piling
Marine or civil construction
Barge deck operations
These skills fit particularly well with the broader marine construction environment, where lifting, rigging, barge handling and general deck work frequently overlap. The type of marine construction experience previously successful within the team has included barge mooring, crane operations, rigging/de-rigging, lifting gear and working directly with barge masters and lifting supervisors.
This isn't a conventional skipper position.
It will suit someone who enjoys variety and practical work and who understands that operating the vessel is only one part of getting a marine construction project delivered.
You might spend the morning manoeuvring a barge into position and the afternoon working alongside the project crew on deck.
If your attitude is "what needs doing?" rather than "that's not my job," you'll probably fit in well.
Full-time opportunity within a specialist marine business
Variety across tug, barge and marine construction operations
Exposure to different projects and marine environments
Opportunity to broaden your practical marine construction experience
Work alongside an experienced, hands-on team
Projects across Auckland and, from time to time, further afield
Applicants will need to hold the appropriate Maritime New Zealand certification for the vessels and operating limits involved.
Applicants must also already be legally entitled to work in New Zealand. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
If you're an experienced tug operator who enjoys the operational side of marine construction and isn't afraid to get your hands dirty, Manaaki Marine would like to hear from you.
Take the next step and submit your CV today.