Project Manager, Program ​/ Project Manager, Operations Manager

The Senior Project Manager in ship repair is a high-stakes role that blends heavy industrial engineering with complex logistics and financial oversight. You aren’t just managing a schedule; you are managing a floating industrial site with tight deadlines, often under federal or international maritime regulations. The Sr. Project Manager Reports to the Program Manager.

The Senior Project Manager (Ship Repair) is responsible for the end-to-end execution of ship repair, maintenance, and modernization projects (Availabilities). This includes everything from initial bidding and dry-docking logistics to the final sea trials and delivery. You will lead multi-disciplinary teams of welders, pipe fitters, electricians, and subcontractors to ensure the vessel is returned to service on time, within budget, and in full compliance with class society standards (e.g., ABS, Lloyd’s, or NAVSEA).

• 1. Project Planning & Execution
  • Work Package Development: Translate technical specifications and "Condition Found Reports" (CFRs) into actionable work packages.
  • Critical Path Management: Oversee the master schedule, specifically managing high-risk milestones like dry-docking, undocking, and engine light-off.
  • Resource Allocation: Coordinate with shop foremen to ensure manning levels are optimized across various trades.
• 2. Financial & Contract Management
  • Budget Accountability: Track "Estimate vs. Actual" (EVA) costs daily to prevent budget overruns.
  • Change Order Management: Identify "growth work" (unforeseen repairs found after opening tanks or machinery) and negotiate fair price adjustments with the client.
  • Subcontractor Oversight: Manage specialized vendors (e.g., specialized coating teams or OEM engine techs) to ensure their work meets quality and safety standards.
• 3. Quality, Safety & Compliance
  • Regulatory Liaison: Act as the primary point of contact for Port Engineers, ABS/Coast Guard inspectors, or Navy supervisors (SUPSHIP).
  • Safety Leadership: Enforce strict adherence to maritime safety standards, including confined space entry, hot work permits, and scaffolding safety.

• Experience: 7+ years in ship repair or shipbuilding, with at least 5 years in a lead Project Management capacity.
• Technical Knowledge: Deep understanding of ship systems (structural, propulsion, piping, and electrical) and dry-docking operations.
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Marine Engineering, Naval Architecture, or a related technical field (or equivalent seafaring/trade experience).
• Certification: PMP certification is highly preferred; familiarity with NAVSEA Standard Items (for government work) is a major plus.
• Physical Ability: Must be able to climb vertical ladders, enter confined spaces, and work in extreme weather conditions common in shipyard environments.

• Negotiation: Ability to defend "growth work" claims to owners and inspectors.
• Decisiveness: Making quick, technical calls when a ship is on the blocks and every hour costs thousands of dollars.
• Communication: Translating complex technical issues into clear status reports for stakeholders.

• Location: Mix of office-based planning and "deck-plate" management in dry docks, pierside, or aboard vessels.
• Travel: May require travel to various shipyards or riding the vessel during sea trials.