Contractual Vessel Planner Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Stabbert Maritime periodically hires experienced Vessel Managers to support the safe, compliant, and efficient operation of our fleet. While we are not actively hiring for this role at this time, we are building a pipeline of qualified candidates for future openings.

The Vessel Manager role is responsible for overseeing vessel operations, maintenance, regulatory compliance, budgeting, and coordination with crews, shipyards, and external service providers.

If you have vessel management experience in a maritime, tug, barge, or commercial fleet environment and would like to be considered for future opportunities, we encourage you to submit your resume.

Please note: this is not an active opening. Resumes will be reviewed and retained for consideration if and when a position becomes available.

About Stabbert Maritime

Stabbert Maritime is a Seattle-based maritime company with operations in Seattle and Anacortes. We own and operate a worldwide fleet of vessels, providing specialized maritime solutions to clients across offshore, research, and industrial sectors. Our success is built on technical excellence, strong client partnerships, and a deep respect for our Vessels, Crew, and Customers.

Position Summary

The Vessel Manager is responsible for planning, directing, and coordinating all aspects of vessel logistics and operations for assigned vessels within the Stabbert Maritime fleet. This role works closely with shore-based leadership, vessel crews, charter clients, and internal support teams to ensure safe, efficient, compliant, and customer-focused operations worldwide.

Essential Functions

• Oversee the overall operations of assigned vessels in alignment with company values and operational standards.
• Build and maintain strong working relationships with vessel Captains, Chief Engineers, and crew, ensuring safe and efficient vessel operations.
• Coordinate closely with internal support teams, including Port Engineers, Operations Coordinators, Purchasing, HSE, HR, and Logistics.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for charter clients, managing daily operational issues and ensuring a high level of customer service.
• Interface with vessel leadership and shore teams on technical, regulatory, safety, and compliance matters.
• Plan and manage future vessel activities, including port calls, bunkering, crew changes, and operational milestones.
• Ensure vessels meet all Flag State, class, and regulatory requirements (personnel, statutory certificates, annuals, audits, etc.).
• Track and maintain all vessel regulatory and compliance requirements.
• Review daily vessel reports and follow up on operational, safety, and performance items.
• Assist vessel Captains with voyage planning and provide sailing expertise as needed.
• Support and participate in accident and incident investigations when required.
• Participate in client and vessel conference calls and represent the company at pre-job and pre-project meetings.
• Work closely with assigned Port Engineers to ensure adequate technical and engineering support.
• Participate in interviews and selection for key vessel positions (Captain, Chief Mate, Chief Engineer, First Assistant Engineer, etc.).
• Review and understand charter contracts, and ensure vessels meet all contractual obligations.
• Conduct regular vessel visits (monthly or as reasonably able).
• Prepare and present monthly vessel condition reports to leadership.
• Manage vessel budgets, track budget-to-actuals, and report daily and monthly operating costs.
• Organize and support pre-project Hazard Identification and Risk Assessments (HIRA).
• Assist in developing daily operating cost estimates and project budgets as needed.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Strong working knowledge of vessel operations, including technical, regulatory, safety, and financial management.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively with crew, clients, and internal teams.
• Proven ability to resolve conflicts, manage competing priorities, and make sound operational decisions.
• Solid financial acumen with experience tracking vessel budgets and identifying cost efficiencies.
• Familiarity with maritime operations software and reporting systems.
• Proactive, solutions-oriented mindset with a focus on risk mitigation and operational continuity.
• Collaborative leadership style balanced with decisiveness and accountability.

Education and Experience

• Experience: 10+ years in maritime operations, including at least 3 years in a leadership or vessel management role.
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Maritime Operations, Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field preferred. Equivalent experience will be considered.
• Certifications/Knowledge: Strong understanding of DP2 operations, ISM Code, HSE systems, and applicable maritime regulatory frameworks.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Performance-based bonus program
• Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Paid vacation and paid holidays

Stabbert Maritime is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.
If you are a hands-on maritime professional who values teamwork, accountability, and operational excellence, we encourage you to apply and join our growing team.