Job Title: Crew Boat Pilot (Surfer Vessel)

Company: Wigmore Trading
Location: Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria
Industry: Marine / Offshore Logistics
Vessel Type: Surfer (Jet Propulsion Crew Boat)
Rotation: 1 Month On / 1 Month Off

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Role Overview

Wigmore Trading is seeking a highly skilled and safety-driven Crew Boat Pilot to operate Surfer-type crew boats equipped with jet propulsion systems in offshore and nearshore environments around Port Harcourt and the Niger Delta waterways.

This role is critical to the safe, efficient, and timely transportation of personnel, light cargo, and equipment to offshore locations. The successful candidate will demonstrate exceptional boat-handling skills, strong navigational judgment in rivers and channels, and deep technical familiarity with jet propulsion systems.

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Key Responsibilities

Vessel Operations

• Safely operate Surfer crew boats with jet propulsion systems in offshore, coastal, riverine, and channel environments.

• Maintain full command and control of the vessel during all phases of operation, including docking, transit, and offshore transfers.

• Execute safe crew transfers in compliance with company procedures, client requirements, and international marine standards.

Navigation & Watchkeeping

• Navigate efficiently through rivers, creeks, estuaries, and navigational channels common to the Niger Delta region.

• Conduct passage planning, chart work, and real-time navigational decision-making.

• Stand navigational watches in accordance with OOW (Officer of the Watch) standards.

Safety & Compliance

• Ensure full compliance with NIMASA, company HSE policies, and international maritime regulations.

• Carry out pre-departure checks, safety drills, and emergency response procedures.

• Report incidents, near-misses, and defects accurately and promptly.

Vessel & Equipment Care

• Monitor and support routine inspection of jet propulsion systems, steering, and critical onboard equipment.

• Identify mechanical or operational issues early and communicate effectively with marine engineers and shore teams.

• Maintain accurate vessel logs, checklists, and operational records.

Communication & Reporting

• Communicate clearly with marine coordinators, offshore installations, and port authorities.

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• Use onboard computer systems for reporting, voyage documentation, and operational updates.

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Mandatory Qualifications & Certifications

Applicants must meet all of the following requirements:

• Certificate of Competency (COC) – appropriate for crew boat / small fast craft operations.

• Officer of the Watch (OOW) certification.

• Valid NIMASA License and Registration.

• STCW certifications (Basic Safety, Medical Fitness, etc.) as required by Nigerian maritime regulations.

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Experience Requirements (Critical)

• Minimum of 2 years’ proven experience as a Crew Boat Pilot operating Surfer vessels.

• 2–3 years of hands-on experience with jet propulsion systems, including maneuvering, operational limitations, and safety considerations.

• Demonstrated experience navigating rivers, channels, and coastal waters, particularly within the Niger Delta or similar environments.

• Prior experience supporting offshore oil & gas logistics is a strong advantage.

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Preferred Educational & Professional Background

To attract the highest calibre candidates, preference will be given to applicants with training or qualifications from reputable maritime institutions, such as:

• Maritime Academy of Nigeria (MAN), Oron

• Federal College of Fisheries and Marine Technology (FCFMT), Lagos

• Nigerian Seafarers Development Programme (NSDP) alumni

• Recognised international maritime training institutions in the UK, Europe, or Asia (e.g., UK MCA-approved training centres)

Additionally, candidates with backgrounds working for:

• Offshore logistics companies

• Oil & gas marine support contractors

• Reputable crew boat or fast craft operators

will be highly regarded.

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Technical & Computer Skills

• Good working knowledge of onboard navigation systems (GPS, radar, electronic charts).

• Comfortable using computers for reporting, email communication, and digital logs.

• Ability to understand technical manuals and operational procedures.

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Personal Attributes & Competencies

• Strong situational awareness and decision-making under pressure.

• High standards of professionalism, discipline, and safety consciousness.

• Physically fit and medically certified for offshore marine operations.

• Excellent teamwork and communication skills.

• Willingness to work on a 1 month on / 1 month off rotation.

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What Wigmore Trading Offers

• Competitive rotation-based compensation

• Stable operations with a growing marine services portfolio

• Opportunity to work with well-maintained Surfer vessels and professional marine teams

• Career growth within a reputable and fast-growing trading and logistics company in Nigeria