Job Description:
The Deck Officer in Lyon plays a vital role aboard merchant vessels, responsible for the safe navigation, operational efficiency, and security of the ship. Working under the direction of the ship's captain, the Deck Officer ensures that the vessel maintains its course, adheres to maritime laws, and manages various onboard activities related to cargo and personnel. This position is essential to the transport and logistics chain, particularly when overseeing cargo routes originating or terminating in France’s inland and seaport-connected cities.
Daily responsibilities include chart plotting, voyage planning, and the operation of navigational equipment such as GPS, radar, and communication systems. The Deck Officer monitors weather patterns and adjusts courses when necessary to avoid delays or risks. Routine watchkeeping ensures that the ship remains safely on course and that its systems are fully functional throughout the voyage.
The role also includes supervising deck crew activities related to cargo loading, mooring, and maintenance. Ensuring cargo is correctly loaded, balanced, and secured is essential to the safety and efficiency of operations. The Deck Officer is also tasked with coordinating emergency drills, maintaining lifesaving equipment, and enforcing safety procedures for the crew and vessel.
In addition, the Deck Officer keeps detailed logs of navigational data, shipboard incidents, and cargo operations. These records support regulatory compliance and serve as essential documentation for audits or inspections. They may also participate in port arrival formalities and liaise with customs and port authorities as needed.
Operating from Lyon, a key French inland transport hub, the Deck Officer bridges maritime and land-based logistics. Their role ensures smooth delivery timelines and the secure movement of goods across national and international waters, helping to sustain global trade links from this strategic location.
Job Requirement:
Applicants for the Deck Officer role should have a strong understanding of ship navigation principles, including celestial and electronic navigation. Familiarity with the operation and maintenance of modern maritime navigation tools such as radar, echo sounders, autopilot systems, and satellite-based tracking is critical. Knowledge of international maritime regulations and safety conventions is also essential for compliance.
The candidate must exhibit a high level of situational awareness and decision-making capability, especially during navigation in congested waters or adverse weather conditions. They should demonstrate readiness to manage emergency situations and initiate the correct safety procedures for fire, man overboard, or collision risk.
Leadership skills are necessary to oversee the deck crew, ensure clear task delegation, and conduct daily operations efficiently. The Deck Officer must be confident in instructing others in safety drills and operational routines, promoting a culture of safety and discipline aboard the vessel. Clear communication with crew and port authorities is a central part of the job.
Strong organizational abilities are required for managing logs, schedules, and compliance records. Deck Officers must ensure that all entries are accurate and timely, as these documents are vital for inspections, legal compliance, and voyage reviews. Time management is important to balance navigational responsibilities with administrative tasks.
Willingness to work at sea for extended periods and adaptability to varying time zones and shift schedules is necessary. Physical fitness and the ability to perform duties in different climates and onboard environments contribute to performance and reliability. A commitment to maritime safety, operational excellence, and international shipping standards is key to success in this Lyon-based role.
