Marine Dockmaster for Shipyard Operations

Position: Dockmaster

Department: Yard Services Docking & Undocking.

Location: Sande Lavgan, Ratnagiri MaharashtraEmail Id : hr1@chowgulelavgan.comPosition reports : MD / Top ManagementRole OverviewLeads the Yard Services Docking & Undocking, MaintenanceEnsures safe, efficient, and environmentally compliant docking / Undocking operations.Maintains international standards for ship repair and yard management services.Job SummaryThe Dockmaster – Shiplift/Syncrolift Operations is responsible for the safe, efficient, and precise docking and undocking of vessels using shiplift syncrolift system.

The role involves direct operational control, coordination with marine pilots, vessel crews, and technical teams, and strict compliance with safety, stability, and lifting procedures.The Dockmaster acts as the overall authority during docking and undocking operations, ensuring protection of personnel, vessels, shiplift equipment, and infrastructure.Docking, Undocking & Ship Lift OperationsKey ResponsibilitiesOperational ControlPlan, coordinate, and execute vessel docking and undocking operations on the shiplift/syncrolift.Take control of marine movements from vessel approach to final securing on the lift platform.Ensure correct vessel positioning, alignment, and load distribution before lifting or lowering.Supervise winching, ballasting/de-ballasting, lifting, lowering, and transfer operations.Confirm vessel stability throughout docking and undocking processes.Shiplift / Syncrolift OperationsOperate or oversee operation of the syncrolift control system.Verify correct functioning of lifting units, wire ropes, synchronizing systems, and safety interlocks.Ensure compliance with Safe Working Load (SWL), lifting tolerances, and manufacturer limits.Coordinate transfer systems (rail bogies, transfer , trestles) for vessel movement ashore.Safety & ComplianceEnforce all safety procedures, permits, and risk assessments during marine operations.Conduct pre-operation safety briefings and toolbox talks.Stop operations immediately in case of unsafe conditions or deviations.Ensure compliance with:Shipyard safety regulationsClass and Flag State requirementsPort/Harbor Master instructionsOEM manuals and proceduresInvestigate and report incidents, near-misses, and equipment failures.Coordination & CommunicationLiaise with:Vessel Masters, Chief Engineers, and crewMarine Pilots and Tug OperatorsMaintenance, electrical, and mechanical teamsSafety and Quality departmentsMaintain clear communication via VHF, hand signals, and visual indicators.Coordinate tidal windows, weather conditions, and vessel readiness.Inspection & DocumentationVerify vessel readiness including:Draft, trim, and displacementHull condition and appendagesSea valves and openings closedStability calculations approvedMaintain accurate records of:Docking/undocking plansLift logs and monitoring dataIncident and deviation reportsReview and approve docking plans and method statements.Equipment & Infrastructure ManagementMonitor condition of:Lifting platforms and cradlesWire ropes and hydraulic systemsControl panels and synchronization systemsCoordinate preventive and corrective maintenance.Ensure docking blocks and keel supports are correctly placed.Management & ReportingImplement ISO standards (Safety, Environment, Quality).Submit weekly and monthly reports in standard formats.Technical SkillsStrong knowledge of:Ship stability and load distributionDocking calculations and lifting plansMarine communication protocolsAbility to interpret drawings, docking plans, and stability data.Familiarity with class rules (ABS, DNV, LR, IRS, etc.).Competence with computerized lift monitoring systems.Qualifications & CompetenciesBE Degree / BE Naval Arc or Equivalent.Minimum 5–10 years experience in marine docking, dry dock, shiplift, or syncrolift operations.Proven experience as Dockmaster, Assistant DockmasterHands-on experience with Syncrolift/Shiplift systems is essentialStrong leadership and problem‑solving skills.Good knowledge of engineering practices, maintenance management, and planning.