Operator - Vessel Traffic Service (VTS)

Job Overview

This role is crucial to maintaining safe navigation and ensuring efficient marine operations by managing vessel traffic within Abu Dhabi Ports and its territorial waters. The Operator will oversee vessel movements, coordinate nautical services, and respond promptly to maritime emergencies.

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor and regulate vessel traffic in compliance with local, national, and international regulations.
• Ensure safe navigation throughout the assigned VTS area.
• Maintain VHF radio communications with all vessels on designated channels.
• Broadcast routine navigational safety updates including navigational information, visibility, and weather reports via VHF.
• Supervise designated anchorages for optimal usage, ensuring vessels maintain safe distances.
• Oversee radar, CCTV, and AIS systems for continuous surveillance of the VTS area.
• Operate vessel traffic management systems responsively to prevailing maritime conditions to facilitate traffic flow.
• Proactively address and prevent hazardous maritime situations.
• Initiate and execute emergency response procedures, coordinating with emergency services as necessary.
• Coordinate vessel arrivals, departures, and movements to aid in voyage planning and management.
• Report to the VTS Supervisor on issues such as equipment malfunctions, potential hazards, regulatory non-compliance by vessels, erratic vessel behavior, undeclared hazardous cargo, and vessel deficiencies.
• Perform additional related duties as assigned.
• Adhere strictly to Safe Work Instructions, Standard Operating Procedures, and near-miss/incident reporting protocols.

Qualifications and Skills

• Educational Requirement: High School Diploma.
• Certifications: Valid VTS Certification with C0103-1 Certificate or equivalent maritime/transport qualification paired with relevant experience holding C0103-1.
• Minimum 2 years of experience as a VTS Operator, preferably with regional experience.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English for effective reporting and stakeholder interaction.
• Strong teamwork abilities, responsiveness to team needs, and provision of support.
• Proficient computer skills and familiarity with communication and navigational equipment.
• Upholds confidentiality and maintains professionalism in confrontational or high-pressure situations.
• Capable of performing duties independently with minimal supervision.
• Knowledgeable in maritime regulations and terminology, and skilled in monitoring communication and navigation equipment integrity.