Crewing Manager

Job Summary

The Manager of the Crew Department leads crew strategic planning, recruitment, deployment, training, administration, welfare, and performance management to ensure compliance with maritime regulations and support safe, efficient vessel operations.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement annual and long-term crew plans in collaboration with Technical, Operations, and Safety Management teams to maintain manning compliance.
• Verify all seafarers possess valid certificates, training records, medical fitness, visas, and endorsements per STCW, MLC, flag state, and port state regulations before vessel deployment.
• Manage crew rotation schedules to optimize manning levels, ensure adequate rest periods, and comply with work/rest hour regulations.
• Coordinate with manning agents, training centers, and flag state authorities to secure a reliable, cost-effective crew supply chain.
• Administer crew payroll, allotments, bonuses, overtime, seniority payments, and compensation strictly following collective bargaining agreements and company policies.
• Monitor and benchmark crew salary levels against industry standards to maintain competitiveness.
• Ensure compliance with MLC 2006 Title 5 requirements and maintain updated crew complaints procedures and grievance handling processes.
• Collaborate with Masters, Superintendents, and shore staff to resolve crew performance issues, disciplinary matters, and operational feedback.
• Lead crew performance evaluations, career development initiatives, and succession planning for key ranks such as Master and Chief Engineer.
• Maintain accurate crew records using crewing software and generate regular management reports.

Required competencies and certifications

• Fluent in Chinese (Mandarin) and English for reading, writing, speaking, and listening to ensure effective communication.
• Hold Class 1 Certificate of Competency (Deck) or Certificate of Competency II/2 under STCW.
• Minimum 3 years sailing experience as Master or Chief Officer.
• In-depth knowledge of MLC 2006, STCW 2010 (Manila Amendments), flag state requirements, collective bargaining agreements, and international crewing practices.
• Strong communication, organizational, leadership, negotiation, and people management skills.

Preferred competencies and qualifications

• Shore-based crewing experience with at least 3 years in a managerial or supervisory role within a ship management or ship owning company.