Vessel Master - UIC Bowhead Transport Company, LLC

UIC Alaska•Anchorage, AK

5d•Onsite

About The Position

UIC Bowhead Transport Company, LLC is seeking an experienced Vessel Master to command and operate company vessels in the safe and efficient transport of cargo across oceans, coastal waters, bays, lakes, and river systems. The Vessel Master is responsible for all aspects of vessel navigation, crew supervision, regulatory compliance, and emergency response while serving as the primary representative of the company in day-to-day operations and customer interactions. This role requires extensive maritime experience, leadership in dynamic environments, and strong technical and interpersonal skills. The ideal candidate will be proficient in navigation systems, safety protocols, crisis management, and the supervision of 5–7 crewmembers. The Vessel Master ensures adherence to U.S. Coast Guard, company, and environmental regulations, and maintains high standards of performance, professionalism, and operational integrity.

Requirements

Merchant Mariners Credential (MMC) – U.S. Coast Guard Master of Motor Vessels of at least 200 GRT with corresponding STCW endorsements.
Valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) with at least six (6) months before renewal.
Valid U.S. Passport with at least six (6) months before renewal.
Valid Driver’s License with a minimum of six (6) months before renewal.
Minimum of three (3) years of Arctic vessel operations experience.
Prior supervisory experience in a maritime environment.
Ability to read, write, and communicate fluently in English, including via radio and electronic communication.
Capacity to perform medium-heavy labor and stand or walk for up to 6-hour shifts.
Willingness to follow all safety policies and report or correct unsafe conditions or behaviors.
Demonstrated commitment to safety, teamwork, and maintaining good attendance with a positive attitude.

Nice To Haves

OSHA 10-Hour Construction Safety Card preferred.

Responsibilities

Command the vessel to safely transport cargo across oceans, coastal waters, bays, lakes, and rivers.
Set the course of the ship using navigational aids (e.g., charts, plotting sheets, compass, sextant) and direct helm operations.
Determine vessel position using GPS, radar, or celestial navigation techniques.
Inspect the vessel to ensure compliance with safety and operational regulations.
Coordinate the use of signaling devices (whistle, lights, flags, radio) to communicate with nearby vessels.
Calculate landfall using electronic sounding devices and nautical charts.
Navigate to avoid hazards such as reefs, shoals, and shipping obstructions using aids to navigation (lights, buoys, lighthouses).
Maintain accurate ship logs and required documentation.
Train, supervise, and evaluate crew members (typically 5–7) in safe and efficient vessel operations.
Operate vessel systems in rivers or canals using steering controls, radar, radios, depth finders, and related equipment.
Communicate effectively with docks, locks, and vessel traffic using radio and visual signals.
Supervise the cleaning, maintenance, loading, transport, and unloading of cargo.
Ensure full compliance with company policies, U.S. Coast Guard regulations, and environmental standards.
Serve as the company’s on-site representative in interactions with clients, government officials, and regulatory personnel.
Act as the emergency on-site coordinator, responding to incidents in real time.