Radio Operator

Job overview

The Radio Operator supports offshore communications, equipment readiness, and coordination for emergencies and logistics. This role ensures reliable message handling across rig and shore teams, keeps radio systems functioning properly, and helps maintain smooth communication during routine operations and critical situations.

Communication operations

• Handle two-way radio traffic between the rig and shore bases, supply vessels, helicopters, and other stations using radio-telephone systems.
• Operate and supervise VHF, HF, and UHF communication equipment to manage relevant transmissions.
• Provide company-related communication support through telephone, radio, email, fax, and telex.
• Track radio channels and frequencies to stay within regulatory limits and avoid interference.
• Manage isolation of radio equipment during designated radio silence periods.

Equipment upkeep

• Carry out scheduled inspections, testing, calibration, and other basic maintenance tasks on radio systems to keep them compliant and serviceable.
• Diagnose faults and support repair work on communication equipment, involving outside technicians or vendors when needed.
• Check standby radios, lifeboat radio units, and radio room batteries according to company procedures.

Logistics and helicopter coordination

• Maintain radio contact with helicopters arriving at or departing from the rig.
• Advise pilots on landing clearance and weather-related conditions, and enter details in the helicopter movement log.
• Notify the HLO and control room, where relevant, about planned helicopter movements to the installation.
• Support crew changes and supply movements by relaying information between the rig, vessels, and onshore bases.
• Keep accurate logs for helicopter movements, personnel transfers, and cargo shipments.

Emergency support

• Participate in the rig's emergency response activities by maintaining communication support during incidents such as well control events, medical emergencies, and evacuations.
• Coordinate communication among rig personnel, emergency responders, and external authorities during urgent situations.
• Keep watch on maritime and aeronautical emergency frequencies.

Records and administration

• Maintain complete communication logs for all radio traffic to and from the rig.
• Record telephone charges from the installation when applicable.
• Obtain weather updates and other location-based weather information as required.
• Assist the OIM with clerical and administrative tasks when needed.
• Organize personnel boarding, offboarding, and movement by helicopter or boat in line with safety rules.
• Keep personnel-on-board and room assignment records current, where required.
• Remain fully prepared for responsibilities during abandon ship, fire, and injured-person emergencies.

Physical and working conditions

This role may involve occasional climbing of stairs or ladders, as well as infrequent bending, twisting, and standing. The position requires readiness for day and night shifts.

Education, experience, and certifications

A high school qualification or vocational/technical education is required. Candidates should also have at least 2 years of relevant communications experience gained on an offshore rig, in the Merchant Navy, or in the Royal Navy. A valid GMDSS certificate is mandatory, along with any additional training required under the ADES training matrix.

Skills and competencies

The job calls for strong English communication, good computer literacy in Microsoft Office, awareness of surrounding operations, effective teamwork, and solid time management skills.