Senior Marine Operations Superintendent
Location: Saudi Arabia The Senior Marine Operations Superintendent directly oversees a team of 30 staff, spearheading all aspects of Coastal & Marine Resources (CMR) research fleet operations, including the current R/V Thuwal and the upcoming, multi-million-dollar R/V Thuwal 2, a state-of-the-art 50-meter research vessel. With the fleet of 8 small boats, and a working pier it supports over 600 days a year at sea.
This leadership role demands a strategic thinker with a direct hand in shaping business strategies aligned with KAUST's goals for external revenue generation and marine research excellence. The position’s vision and influence will be instrumental in achieving key results through continuous process improvement and implementation of innovative systems and services. Beyond internal operations, it manages high-level stakeholder relationships such as the vessels consortium, Red Sea Global, and Neom authorities, fostering strategic collaborations to advance marine research.
This position requires a deep passion for Marine Research coupled with unwavering commitment to safety, strong leadership, financial expertise, adept project management skills, and a strategic mindset.
Minimum Masters' or equivalent degree in Marine Science or related field, with extensive experience in planning and execution of oceanographic cruises and marine field work surveys. 15+ years of experience with sea-going research and operations, and technologies related to access to the sea. Shipboard experience and seagoing ability is essential. Relevant experience in the academic and research institutions. A thorough working knowledge of UNOLS, RVOC and other relevant protocols. Leading and managing medium to large sized teams of highly specialized technical personnel. Ship operations management experience. Contract management and procurement experience. Ship operations management experience. Contract management and procurement experience. Small boat handling, shipboard experience and seagoing ability are preferred. Project management skills, including the ability to supervise and lead teams of students, technical assistants and junior researchers and to coordinate their work, as needed. * Excellent English writing, communication and inter-personal skills.
