Port Captain at Strickland Services Limited (SSL)

Strickland Services Limited (SSL) is a fully indigenous, industry-leading Marine Logistics and Supply Services Company, renowned for delivering safe, reliable, and modern maritime solutions across the West African oil and gas sector. With a strong commitment to operational excellence, SSL provides a comprehensive portfolio of marine assets and support services designed to enhance offshore operations, improve efficiency, and ensure uninterrupted project execution.

Leveraging cutting-edge vessels, experienced personnel, and strict safety and compliance standards, SSL has built a reputation as a trusted partner to major oil and gas operators. The company’s capabilities span marine transportation, offshore support services, supply boat operations, and specialized maritime logistics tailored to the unique demands of the energy industry. Through innovation, continuous improvement, and a deep understanding of local and international maritime requirements, Strickland Services Limited remains dedicated to advancing marine logistics in West Africa while contributing significantly to the growth and sustainability of the region’s oil and gas value chain.

We are recruiting to fill the position below:

Job Title: Port Captain

Location: Port Harcourt, Rivers
Employment Type: Full-time

Roles & Responsibilities
Vessel Operations & Supervision:

• Monitor daily vessel operations to ensure safe and efficient performance.
• Conduct regular vessel visits to verify seaworthiness, operational standards, and compliance with HSE policies.
• Ensure Masters, Chief Officers, and crew comply with company operational procedures.
• Coordinate vessel port calls, berthing, and departure arrangements with relevant authorities.

Safety, Regulatory & Compliance:

• Ensure vessel compliance with local and international maritime regulations (NIMASA, IMO, SOLAS, MARPOL, ISM/ISPS).
• Conduct safety inspections, audits, and onboard drills with the vessel team.
• Review and approve vessel documentation, including statutory certificates, crew documents, and logs.
• Follow up on corrective and preventive actions from inspection reports.

Crew Management:

• Supervise crew changes, ensuring all ranks meet competency, certification, and medical requirements.
• Support Masters in implementing crew performance evaluations and discipline.
• Identify training needs and ensure crew competency development.

Cargo & Marine Operations:

• Oversee safe cargo operations, loading/unloading, tank cleaning, ballasting, and stability management (for tankers and supply vessels).
• Coordinate safe mooring, towing, and maneuvering operations.
• Liaise with terminals, agents, and port service providers to ensure smooth operations.

Client & Stakeholder Relations:

• Serve as the operational interface with clients on all marine matters.
• Attend client meetings and respond to operational concerns promptly.
• Provide professional marine advice to management and clients when required.

Documentation & Reporting:

• Maintain updated records of vessel movements, performance, and operational issues.
• Prepare incident reports, port call reports, voyage summaries, and operational KPIs.
• Report any vessel non-conformities and follow up on closure.

Qualifications & Experience

• Master Mariner (Class 1) or Chief Officer (Class 2) Certificate of Competency.
• Minimum 7–10 years seagoing experience, including time as Master or Chief Officer.
• At least 3 years of experience in a marine superintendent/port captain role (preferred).
• Strong knowledge of offshore support vessels (OSVs), tankers, AHTS, crew boats, or relevant vessel types.
• Deep understanding of MARPOL, SOLAS, STCW, ISM, ISPS, and Flag State requirements.

Skills & Competencies:

• Strong leadership and decision-making skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• High operational awareness and problem-solving capability.
• Strong safety culture mindset.
• Ability to work under pressure and respond to emergencies.

Application Closing Date
19th February, 2026.