Sr. Manager of Marine Operations - Bowhead Transport

Overview

Position OverviewBowhead Transport LLC is seeking a results-driven Sr. Manager of Marine Operations to lead,manage, and enhance the performance of our marine fleet and operations. This role isresponsible for ensuring the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of all marine activities,driving operational excellence, and supporting cross-functional coordination across theorganization.

 

The Sr. Manager will oversee all vessel operations, supervise marine personnel, and administerseasonal marine projects, ensuring alignment with best practices and regulatory requirements.This role also includes oversight of crew management, regulatory compliance, hiring, andoperational performance optimization.

 

The successful candidate will work closely with the Director of Marine Services, supporting thedevelopment, coordination, and execution of all marine-related elements within project planningphases across the company. This includes working with the Director of Operations Integrityrequiring early logistical planning, resource allocation, risk mitigation strategies, andcoordination with internal and external stakeholders to ensure successful project execution.

 

Regular collaboration with the HSE Manager, Port Captain, Port Engineer, Senior CargoManager, and Manager of Engineering is essential to maintain alignment on vessel readiness,voyage execution, and compliance with all regulatory requirements (USCG, ABS, ADEC, andother federal/state/local agencies).

Responsibilities

Qualifications Experience: Minimum 10 years of experience in marine operations, fleet management,or Alaska-based maritime logistics. Education: Bachelor’s degree in Marine Transportation, Marine Engineering, BusinessAdministration, or a related field preferred (extensive equivalent experience may beconsidered). Certifications: USCG License/Endorsement (e.g., Master, Master of Tow, or ChiefEngineer, ) preferred but not required. Skills: Strong leadership, decision-making, and project management skills. Provenability to coordinate high-performing teams in a dynamic work environment. Technical Knowledge: In-depth knowledge of vessel operations, regulatorycompliance, QMS/SMS systems, and marine engineering best practices.

Work Conditions: This position requires a combination of office-based management and possibility ofon-site vessel oversight. Travel may be required to vessel locations, industry events, and regulatorymeetings.

 

Physical Requirements: Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds. Must be able to stand, walk, twist, bend, and squat periodically for extended periods.

Qualifications

Key Responsibilities

Operational & Fleet Management Lead daily vessel operations ensuring safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. Develop and implement fleet performance strategies. Oversee vessel schedules, voyage planning, and seasonal logistics. Ensure full compliance with USCG, OSHA, ABS, Subchapter M, OCIMF, ISM, and ISO9001 standards. Coordinate cross-functional teams for seamless cargo, freight, and voyage execution. Lead investigations and corrective actions related to incidents or near-misses. Supervise all cargo operations, including stowage, securement, and documentationcompliance (e.g., IMDG, SOLAS, CBP).

Project Support & Strategic / Logistics Planning At the direction of the General Manager, provide direct support to the Director ofMarine Services in the development and coordination of all marine-related componentsof company project planning. Participate and direct pre-project assessments to determine marine resourcerequirements, timelines, and logistical needs. Coordinate and direct with internal stakeholders to align project schedules with vesselavailability, crewing, and compliance needs. Support and direct the planning and execution of new routes, cargo types, or operationalexpansions as part of project rollout strategies.

 

Crew & Personnel Leadership Recruit, train, and manage vessel crews and marine staff. Oversee crew scheduling and ensure compliance with rest/work regulations. Foster a culture of teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement. Work closely with HR and HSE on performance evaluations and training initiatives.

 

Financial & Budget Oversight Contribute to the development and management of the marine operating budget. Monitor operating expenses and capital expenditures (CapEx). Track asset utilization, preventive maintenance, and inventory controls.

 

Stakeholder & Business Engagement Represent Bowhead in external meetings with regulatory agencies, clients, and industrypartners. Maintain productive relationships with customers, port authorities, and governmentagencies.Asset & Maintenance Management Coordinate with the Director of Operational Integrity to implement QMS/SMS/EMSframeworks. Work with engin