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On Call Cable Laying Ship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... cable laying vessels. Additionally, there is a shore side component to the role that involves ... ship procedures. * Interfaces with all Ocean Operations functional groups including cable ...

... cable laying vessels. Additionally, there is a shore side component to the role that involves ... ship procedures. * Interfaces with all Ocean Operations functional groups including cable ...

... cable laying vessels. Additionally, there is a shore side component to the role that involves ... ship procedures. * Interfaces with all Ocean Operations functional groups including cable ...

... cable laying vessels. Additionally, there is a shore side component to the role that involves ... ship procedures. * Interfaces with all Ocean Operations functional groups including cable ...

... cable laying vessels. Additionally, there is a shore side component to the role that involves ... ship procedures. * Interfaces with all Ocean Operations functional groups including cable ...

... cable laying vessels. Additionally, there is a shore side component to the role that involves ... ship procedures. * Interfaces with all Ocean Operations functional groups including cable ...

... cable laying vessels. Additionally, there is a shore side component to the role that involves ... ship procedures. * Interfaces with all Ocean Operations functional groups including cable ...

... cable laying vessels. Additionally, there is a shore side component to the role that involves ... ship procedures. * Interfaces with all Ocean Operations functional groups including cable ...

... cable laying vessels. Additionally, there is a shore side component to the role that involves ... ship procedures. * Interfaces with all Ocean Operations functional groups including cable ...

Naval Architect

$89K - $148K/yr

Expeditionary Fast Transport Vessels (T-EPF), Hospital Ships (T-AH), Dry Cargo/Ammunition Ships (T-AKE), Underway Replenishment Oilers (T-AO), Cable Laying/Repair (T-ARC), Rescue/Salvage Ships (T-ARS ...

Electronics Engineer

$70K - $117K/yr

Expeditionary Fast Transport Vessels (T-EPF), Hospital Ships (T-AH), Dry Cargo/Ammunition Ships (T-AKE), Underway Replenishment Oilers (T-AO), Cable Laying/Repair (T-ARC), Rescue/Salvage Ships (T-ARS ...

Electrical Engineer

$70K - $117K/yr

Expeditionary Fast Transport Vessels (T-EPF), Hospital Ships (T-AH), Dry Cargo/Ammunition Ships (T-AKE), Underway Replenishment Oilers (T-AO), Cable Laying/Repair (T-ARC), Rescue/Salvage Ships (T-ARS ...

Structural Engineer

$70K - $117K/yr

Expeditionary Fast Transport Vessels (T-EPF), Hospital Ships (T-AH), Dry Cargo/Ammunition Ships (T-AKE), Underway Replenishment Oilers (T-AO), Cable Laying/Repair (T-ARC), Rescue/Salvage Ships (T-ARS ...

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On Call Cable Laying Ship information

How much does it cost to lay an undersea cable?

For an on call cable laying ship, the cost to lay an undersea cable typically ranges from $100,000 to over $1 million per kilometer, depending on factors such as cable type, depth, route complexity, and environmental conditions. The process involves specialized equipment, skilled crews, and often requires permits and surveys, which can add to the overall expense.

What is the difference between On Call Cable Laying Ship vs Underwater Cable Installer?

AspectOn Call Cable Laying ShipUnderwater Cable Installer
CredentialsMaritime certifications, safety trainingTechnical certifications, safety training
Work EnvironmentShip-based, offshoreUnderwater, offshore or onshore
Industry UsageMaritime, offshore energyTelecommunications, power transmission

Both roles involve cable installation in offshore environments, but the On Call Cable Laying Ship operates ships for large-scale cable laying projects, while the Underwater Cable Installer performs the actual installation work often from smaller vessels or onshore sites. The ship-based role focuses on logistics and navigation, whereas the installer handles the technical installation process.

What do cable laying ships do?

Cable laying ships are specialized vessels used to install underwater cables, such as telecommunications or power cables, across the ocean floor. They carry out tasks like laying, burying, and securing cables in deep-sea environments, often requiring precise navigation and specialized equipment. These ships typically operate in challenging conditions and may require crew to have skills in marine operations, navigation, and cable handling.

What does an On Call Cable Laying Ship do?

An On Call Cable Laying Ship is a specialized vessel equipped to install and maintain underwater cables, such as telecommunications or power cables, on the ocean floor. These ships are often 'on call,' meaning they are ready to respond to urgent cable repairs or new installation projects as needed. They use advanced technology and skilled crews to precisely lay, bury, and repair cables in deep and shallow waters. Their work is crucial for maintaining global communications and power infrastructure.

What are the typical work schedules and on-board living conditions like for an On Call Cable Laying Ship crew member?

Crew members on an On Call Cable Laying Ship often work in rotational shifts, which can mean being at sea for several weeks followed by time off onshore. The work environment is highly collaborative, with teams of engineers, technicians, and deck crew working together to lay and maintain undersea cables. Living conditions on board are generally comfortable, with shared accommodations, meals provided, and access to recreational facilities, though space can be limited. Adaptability and teamwork are crucial, as tasks can change quickly depending on weather conditions and technical requirements.

How do I get a job working on a cargo ship?

To work as an on-call cable laying ship crew member, you typically need relevant maritime certifications such as STCW, experience in marine or cable installation work, and physical fitness. Applying through maritime recruitment agencies or shipping companies and gaining experience in offshore or marine environments can improve your chances of securing such a position.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an On Call Cable Laying Ship Crew Member, and why are they important?

To thrive as an On Call Cable Laying Ship Crew Member, you need a strong understanding of marine operations, seamanship, and cable handling, typically with relevant maritime certifications. Familiarity with dynamic positioning systems, cable laying machinery, and navigation equipment is crucial. Excellent teamwork, adaptability, and problem-solving skills help manage the demands of offshore work and shifting schedules. These skills ensure safe, efficient cable installation and effective collaboration under challenging sea conditions.

What companies lay undersea cables?

Companies that lay undersea cables include global telecommunications firms and specialized maritime contractors such as SubCom, Alcatel Submarine Networks, and NEC. These companies operate specialized cable-laying ships and employ skilled crews, including roles like on call cable laying ship personnel, to install and maintain undersea fiber optic cables for international communications.
More about On Call Cable Laying Ship jobs
What cities are hiring for On Call Cable Laying Ship jobs? Cities with the most On Call Cable Laying Ship job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Cable Laying Ship jobs? The most popular types of Cable Laying Ship jobs are:
What states have the most On Call Cable Laying Ship jobs? States with the most job openings for On Call Cable Laying Ship jobs include:
What job categories do people searching On Call Cable Laying Ship jobs look for? The top searched job categories for On Call Cable Laying Ship jobs are:
Infographic showing various On Call Cable Laying Ship job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Engineer in Charge (6537)

Engineer in Charge (6537)

SubCom

Williamsburg, VA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago


SubCom rating

4.5

Company rating: 4.5 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

437th of 442 rated engineering


Job description

Are you looking for an opportunity with plenty of growth potential? Do you enjoy working in an exciting, fast-paced, collaborative environment? Are you interested in working with the world's most innovative companies to create a more connected world?
Connecting Continents. Impacting Communities.
The backbone of the Internet is a series of high-tech subsea fiber optic cables deployed throughout the globe - SubCom has deployed over 50% of them. Our employees ensure data communications networks are engineered, manufactured, deployed to the highest standards, enabling faster and more reliable connectivity to communities worldwide. Every member of the SubCom team plays a role in an end-to-end process that is critical to enterprises, governments, big cities, and rural towns.
We encourage, expect, and value creativity, thoughtful risk taking, openness to change, and diverse perspectives. Whether you're a seasoned applicant seeking a new and exciting challenge, or you're new to the workforce and looking for a flexible, rewarding, and fast-paced position with an innovative and stable organization (since 1953), SubCom has opportunities to advance your career.
Position Overview
The Engineer in Charge position leads engineering and implementation of deep-sea cable installations and cable repair operations. The position requires leading teams of cable engineers, cable jointers, and transmission engineers on activities associated with the installation and repair of submarine cable systems. This position requires in-depth knowledge of all facets of Shore End Installations, Deep Sea Installations, Vessel Loading, Route Clearance Operations and Post Lay Inspection and Burial Operations, as well as, Cable Repair Operations. Substantial domestic and foreign travels including extended assignments at Shore End Landing sites or on-board cable laying vessels. Additionally, there is a shore side component to the role that involves project management capability, understanding of customer logistic processes, drafting technical specifications and method of procedures for all facets of Ocean Operations project work. Additionally, this role may require having direct reports and supervisory of company personnel responsibilities including setting goals and performing employee evaluations.
Responsibilities
  • Leads project specific planning including drafting/reviewing technical specifications and methods of procedure for cable loading, installation and repair activities.
  • In charge of customer furnished vessel mobilization and demobilization including loading and offloading of cable and electronics.
  • On board lead for all technical matters on cable installation and repair.
  • Supervises deck operations on board customer provided vessels including instructing the marine crew on various cable rigging required for successful mission execution.
  • Interface with customers on a frequent basis including leading pre-sail project reviews and post operational hot wash summaries.
  • Leads internal and external training of cable engineering functions including Makai, Winfrog, and general cable ship procedures.
  • Interfaces with all Ocean Operations functional groups including cable engineering, cable jointing, logistics, underwater vehicles, and acquisition.
  • May have supervisory responsibilities of company personnel including having direct reports.

Qualifications
  • College degree in Mechanical Engineering / Sciences is preferable. Cable engineering/operational experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
  • Basic engineering, math and computer skills are required for this position.
  • Understanding of undersea cable mechanics and principles is required.
  • In depth knowledge of Makai Lay and Winfrog Navigational software is desirable.
  • Charting and mapping skills.
  • Must be willing to work in cable tanks, ISO containers, and in cable depot cable pans to assist with loading and offloading of customer cables and electronics.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
  • Must pass a Fit for Duty physical and a certified STCW Basic Safety Training class
  • Must be able to travel a minimum of 50% of the time to and work at remote locations.
  • Must possess or be able to obtain DOD Secret clearance with ability to obtain a DOD Top Secret clearance.

NOTE: This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Employee may perform other related duties as negotiated to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.
Candidates for positions with SubCom must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Employment eligibility verification will be required at the time of hire. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
Our selection procedure is based on local, state and federal law.
Please be sure to attach a resume to your application. We are not able to consider applications without a resume.
BENEFITS
SubCom offers a comprehensive benefits package, including but not limited to: competitive salaries, medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance coverages, FSA, HSA, generous vacation, paid sick leave, paid parental leave, paid holidays, tuition reimbursement, adoption assistance, and a 401(k) plan with generous company match. Additionally, some positions may be eligible for shift differential.
AFFIRMATIVE ACTION/EQUAL EMPLOYER OPPORTUNITY
SubCom is committed to providing a work environment that prohibits discrimination based on age, color, disability, ethnicity, marital status, national origin, race, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, disability or any other characteristics protected by applicable law or regulation.
SubCom engineers, manufactures, and installs subsea fiber optic data cables - the unsung heroes of global communication. With an unrelenting focus on quality, reliability, and value, SubCom offers flexible end-to-end building blocks for the high-tech networks that are the backbone of the world's digital infrastructure. While the company's origins date back to the mid-19th century, SubCom has deployed enough cable to circle the equator more than 25 times since its entry into the communications industry in 1955.
SUBCOM'S CORE VALUES
Quality - Accountability - Teamwork - Innovation

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