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Contract Dynamic Positioning Operator Jobs in Virginia

Contract Specialist

Arlington, VA · On-site

$90K - $150K/yr

This is a full-time, hybrid, one day a week on-site position located at a Department of Defense ... work in a collaborative and dynamic environment. Salary Range: $90,000 - $150,000 General ...

Travel Operating Room

Falls Church, VA · On-site

$2.5K - $2.6K/wk

Position Details Specialty: Operating Room Location: Falls Church, Virginia Employment Type: Travel/Contract Pay: $2536 - $2670 per week Shift: Flex Start Date: ASAP Contract Length: 16-week Position:

Pantheon is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Contract Recruiter to join our dynamic team ... This position requires a detail-oriented professional with exceptional communication skills, the ...

Pantheon is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Contract Recruiter to join our dynamic team ... This position requires a detail-oriented professional with exceptional communication skills, the ...

Contracts Manager

Mclean, VA · Remote

$110K - $130K/yr

Monitor contract performance, deadlines, and deliverables; initiate renewals or amendments as ... Comfortable working in a dynamic, high-volume setting where priorities can shift quickly ...

Contract Admin II

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$61K - $104K/yr

... to position us for the future. And you can, too. Our flexible work environment provides you a ... Join a dynamic Contracts team that supports the maintenance and modernization of multiple ship ...

Contract Specialist

Norfolk, VA · On-site +1

$108K - $140K/yr

Coast Guard, OPERATING LOCATION-SFLC CONTRACTING and PROCUREMENT BR1-NORFOLK VA in NORFOLK ... This position acquires a full range of sophisticated supplies and services which may include Coast ...

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Contract Dynamic Positioning Operator information

What is a contract dynamic positioning operator?

Contract Dynamic Positioning Operators (DPOs) are specialized maritime professionals hired on a contract basis to operate and monitor dynamic positioning systems on vessels such as offshore supply ships, drilling rigs, and construction vessels. These systems use computer-controlled mechanisms to automatically maintain the ship’s position and heading using its own propellers and thrusters. Contract DPOs are responsible for ensuring vessel safety during critical operations, often in challenging offshore environments. Their role is vital in the oil and gas industry, renewable energy projects, and other sectors requiring precise vessel positioning.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a contract dynamic positioning operator?

To thrive as a Contract Dynamic Positioning Operator, you need a solid background in maritime operations, navigation, and DP system management, usually backed by STCW certification and a recognized DP Operator Certificate. Familiarity with dynamic positioning consoles, vessel control systems, and maritime communication tools is essential. Attention to detail, quick decision-making, and strong teamwork are vital soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are crucial to safely and efficiently maintain vessel position in challenging offshore environments and ensure operational success.

What are the common challenges faced by a contract dynamic positioning operator when joining a new vessel or project?

As a Contract Dynamic Positioning Operator (DPO), one of the main challenges when starting on a new vessel or project is quickly adapting to different DP systems and vessel-specific procedures. Since contract roles often require moving between various types of ships and offshore operations, DPOs must efficiently familiarize themselves with new equipment, crew dynamics, and safety protocols. Effective communication with the bridge team and technical staff is essential to ensure smooth operations, especially during critical maneuvers. Additionally, contract DPOs must maintain up-to-date certifications and demonstrate flexibility in working with multinational crews under varying shift patterns.

What is the difference between Contract Dynamic Positioning Operator vs Marine Pilot?

AspectContract Dynamic Positioning OperatorMarine Pilot
CredentialsDP certification, maritime licensesMarine pilot license, local port authority certification
Work EnvironmentOffshore vessels, DP systemsPort and harbor areas, ship navigation
Employer & IndustryOil & gas, offshore constructionShipping companies, port authorities

The Contract Dynamic Positioning Operator primarily manages vessel positioning using DP systems in offshore environments, requiring specialized certifications. Marine Pilots assist ships in navigating port areas, focusing on safe maneuvering. While both roles involve maritime expertise, they differ in work setting and responsibilities, with DP Operators working offshore and Pilots operating in port zones.

What are popular job titles related to Contract Dynamic Positioning Operator jobs in Virginia?

For Contract Dynamic Positioning Operator jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Contract Dynamic Positioning Operator jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Contract Dynamic Positioning Operator jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Contract Dynamic Positioning Operator jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Contract Dynamic Positioning Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Contract Dynamic Positioning Operator job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution.

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


General Dynamics NASSCO rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

General Dynamics NASSCO is a proud member of the General Dynamics Marine Systems business unit. In addition to ship construction, our capabilities include advanced ship repair, conversion, and maintenance for both commercial and national defense assets. We encourage you to learn more about our open positions and how you can become part of the important and exciting work we do here at NASSCO. Come join our team! 

We currently have an exciting opportunity in our Contracts/81 department. This position specifically is located in Norfolk, Virginia. We are looking for a  Contract Administrator. The hours are 7 am - 4pm.

Shift : ALL

 Review preliminary specifications, labor, and material estimates, subcontractor quotes, and current rates to develop independent pre-negotiation positions.
B. Exercise considerable independent judgment in negotiating agreements and committing the company in the performance of the original contract and any changes thereto.
C. Produce and maintain the hardcopy contracts file plus all documentation, reports, and correspondence required by law.
D. Maintain a professional and cooperative working relationship with government agencies, subcontractors, and other employees in order to facilitate the timely completion of all contractual requirements.
E. Demonstrate a continuous effort to improve operations, decrease turnaround time, streamline work processes, work cooperatively and jointly to provide quality and seamless customer service.
F. Advise Project Managers on courses of action related to contract performance by interpreting contract clauses and government regulations.
G. Work closely with Planning and Estimating Department to draft and finalize contract line items and all proposed changes.
H. Develop pricing for and negotiate contract changes; new and growth work.
I. Research contract/subcontract issues, disputes, and terms and conditions to determine responsibility.
J. Originate all company correspondence of contractual significance and provide timely notification to the government of cost and funding limitations and coordinate pursuit of additional funding.
K. Other duties as assigned.

Required Education/Training

A. Typically has a BA/BS in Business Administration, Engineering or a related academic field of study plus 2 years directly related experience or AA/AS plus 4 years directly related experience or 8 years directly related experience
B. Knowledge of contract requirements including Contract Data Requirement List, (CDRL), Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR) and Defense FAR Supplement (DFARS) and Cost Accounting Standards (CAS).

Experience

In depth knowledge of:
A. Accounting practices as applied to procurement procedures and track funding applied to cost type and fixed price contracts.
B. Must have knowledge and experience with the (FAR).
C. Must understand and have experience with various government contract types including firm-fixed-price, and cost type contracts.
D. Must have strong computer and accounting skills as well as strong analytical, negotiating, and organizational capabilities.
E. Must have proficiency in writing and negotiating complex contractual terms and conditions in the government context.
F. Must have the ability to grasp and understand technical concepts and applications.
G. Must be task oriented, self-motivated, and have the ability to multitask, work under pressure, meet deadlines, and work as a team player.

Unique/Additional Requirements

A. Must have reliable attendance and be available for overtime as required.
B. Work may require assignment to offsite locations.
C. Work will mostly be performed in an air conditioned office, but the incumbent must be able to commute about the yard and on the ships undergoing repair.
D. Must be willing to travel and have reliable transportation.
E. Must be a U.S. citizen and qualify for a Common Access Card (CAC) and a security clearance.
F. Regularly required to sit, use hands and fingers, handle or feel objects or controls, and to talk and hear.
G. Must have good eye/hand coordination.
H. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
I. Must be familiar with working in a naval-ship-work-environment and be able to go aboard marine vessels and the dry-dock, climb ladders, work in tanks and confined spaces, and wear personal protective equipment.
J. These areas can be dirty, dusty, hot or cold, and noisy.

General Dynamics NASSCO is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status, or any other basis protected by local, state, or federal law.

To learn more about applicant rights under federal law, click here:

“Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal” Poster | U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission

Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal

If you have a disability that impacts your ability to complete the job application process and would like to request an accommodation, please contact our Human Resources Department.

Call (757) 543-6801. This contact information is for accommodation requests only, not to inquire about the status of applications. NASSCO is an Equal Opportunity / Individuals with Disabilities / Protected Veterans Employer


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