Yacht Technical Manager

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Yacht Technical Manager is responsible for overseeing the technical operations, maintenance, and compliance of a fleet of yachts. This role involves ensuring that yachts are in optimal operating condition, managing refit projects, coordinating with shipyards and contractors, and ensuring compliance with maritime safety standards and regulations. The Yacht Technical Manager will work closely with captains, engineers, and external vendors to manage technical support, repairs, and preventive maintenance plans while controlling costs and minimizing operational downtime.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Technical Operations Management: 

• Oversee the day-to-day technical operations of the yacht fleet, including machinery, electrical systems, propulsion, and navigation systems.
• Ensure that yachts are maintained in peak operational condition, addressing both scheduled and unscheduled maintenance needs. 
• Other duties as assigned

Maintenance Planning & Execution: 

• Develop and implement preventive and corrective maintenance plans for all yachts in the fleet.
• Supervise routine maintenance, repairs, and refit activities, ensuring quality and adherence to timelines and budget.
• Coordinate dry-docking, refit, and yard periods, liaising with shipyards and service providers.  

Compliance & Safety: 

• Ensure all yachts meet safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements, including class and flag state compliance. 
• Stay updated on the latest maritime regulations (e.g., SOLAS, ISM, ISPS, MARPOL), and implement any necessary adjustments to ensure compliance. 
• Work with captains and crews to ensure safety protocols and emergency systems are operational and regularly tested. 

Vendor & Contractor Management: 

• Liaise with external contractors, shipyards, and technical suppliers for maintenance and refit services. 
• Evaluate and negotiate contracts with vendors for cost-effective, high-quality service and products. 

Budget & Cost Control: 

• Prepare and manage technical maintenance budgets, monitoring expenses against forecasts. 
• Control costs by identifying efficient maintenance strategies, ensuring optimal use of resources, and negotiating favorable terms with suppliers.

Crew Support & Training: 

• Provide technical support and guidance to yacht crew, particularly engineers and captains. 
• Conduct training sessions to ensure the crew is well-versed in technical operations, safety protocols, and emergency procedures.

Documentation & Reporting: 

• Maintain detailed records of maintenance activities, repairs, refit works, inspections, and certifications. 
• Provide regular reports to management on the technical condition of the fleet, budget status, and compliance issues.

Emergency Response: 

• Serve as the primary point of contact for technical emergencies, providing swift solutions to minimize downtime and maintain safety. 
• Maintain on-call availability for technical emergencies.

QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS: 

• Degree or diploma in Marine Engineering, Naval Architecture, or a related technical discipline. 
• Minimum 5 years of experience in a technical management role within the yachting industry, shipping, or maritime sector. 
• Hands-on experience with yacht or marine systems (electrical, mechanical, hydraulics, HVAC, propulsion systems).
• Proven experience in managing refit projects and working with shipyards. 
• Relevant maritime certifications such as STCW, ISM, and Flag State regulations are preferred.

ATTRIBUTES: 

• Strong understanding of yacht engineering systems, maritime regulations, and technical maintenance.
• Excellent project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously. 
• Strong negotiation and vendor management skills. 
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to liaise with captain