Ark Vessel Deck Officer – 2nd/3rd Mate (Marine Operations)

As an Ark Vessel Deck Officer – 2nd/3rd Mate at SpaceX, you'll find yourself handling diverse responsibilities. This role includes serving as the Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch on board Falcon Ark recovery vessels, which involves watch standing, navigating, and assisting the recovery team with crucial flight hardware. You will also operate SpaceX’s drone ships in a Dynamic Positioning Officer capacity, maintaining logs, managing DPO checks, and ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory standards. Your ability to embrace flexibility and collaborate with marine operations teams will be key for success!

To qualify for the Ark Vessel Deck Officer – 2nd/3rd Mate position at SpaceX, you need a high school diploma or equivalent and at least 1 year of experience in a Licensed OICNW and/or DPO role. You must hold a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) as a 3rd Mate Unlimited and have various STCW certifications. Furthermore, having a NI or OSVDPA Dynamic Positioning Unlimited Certificate is preferred, along with a good understanding of vessel management systems and safety management protocols.

Teamwork is crucial for the Ark Vessel Deck Officer role at SpaceX as it enhances safety and efficiency during missions. You'll be working alongside diverse teams that include crew members and recovery specialists. The collaborative environment not only ensures adherence to safety standards but also fosters innovative solutions to challenges faced during marine operations. Good communication and professional demeanor during watch-standing duties will help maintain a cohesive team dynamic.

In the role of Ark Vessel Deck Officer – 2nd/3rd Mate at SpaceX, you can expect a typical 50-hour work week, although hours may vary depending on site operational needs. Flexibility is key, especially during mission support periods, so being prepared to adapt your schedule to support mission objectives will be important. Embracing this aspect of the role can significantly enhance your contributions to our team.

Working as an Ark Vessel Deck Officer – 2nd/3rd Mate at SpaceX comes with an attractive benefits package, including a competitive salary, comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, and a 401(k) retirement plan. You will also get the opportunity to earn long-term incentives in the form of stock options and bonuses. Additionally, you will enjoy paid vacation time, paid holidays, and professional development opportunities, making this role both financially rewarding and personally fulfilling.

In handling unexpected challenges while on duty as an Ark Vessel Deck Officer, it’s vital to remain calm and assess the situation. A good approach is to prioritize safety, communicate clearly with your team, and implement your training to devise practical solutions. Drawing on past experiences can provide insights into effective strategies, showcasing your problem-solving skills and capacity for teamwork.

When discussing your experience with dynamic positioning operations, highlight any specific training or certifications you have, such as your NI or OSVDPA Dynamic Positioning Unlimited Certificate. Provide examples of past situations where you successfully managed dynamic positioning tasks, focusing on your attention to detail, adherence to safety protocols, and collaborative efforts with team members.

To ensure compliance with maritime regulations, it’s essential to stay well-informed about current laws and procedural changes. Onboard, I prioritize maintaining accurate logs, conducting regular compliance checks, and facilitating training sessions among crew members. Sharing knowledge about safety management programs and regulations fosters a culture of compliance, which is critical in maintaining operational integrity.

Maintaining effective communication during busy operations stems from preparation and establishing clear communication protocols. Utilizing proper tools and channels is key. I make it a practice to provide concise updates and ensure every team member is briefed on their roles. Regular check-ins and team debriefings also help everyone stay aligned, ensuring that objectives are met smoothly.

When describing a time you worked as part of a high-functioning team, focus on the specific project or operation and your role within that dynamic. Highlight how you contributed to team goals, facilitated collaboration, and addressed challenges together. Emphasize the importance of trust, communication, and mutual support in achieving successful outcomes.

In marine operations, I prioritize safety through comprehensive pre-operation briefings, risk assessments, and consistent adherence to safety checks during watch. By fostering a culture of awareness among my team, encouraging open communication about hazards, and implementing checklists to ensure all safety protocols are followed, we create a safer work environment.

My approach to training and onboarding new crew members involves structured, hands-on experiences complemented by thorough introductions to our standard operating procedures. I prioritize creating a welcoming environment where questions are encouraged, which promotes learning. Mentorship plays a significant role in ensuring they feel supported, and I follow up to address challenges they face during their onboarding.

Handling stress during high-pressure situations requires staying focused on the task at hand. I utilize deep breathing techniques and take brief moments to regroup when necessary. By prioritizing teamwork and open communication, I can rely on my colleagues to share the load, fostering an environment where everyone supports each other, reducing individual stress.

In answering what motivated me to apply for the Ark Vessel Deck Officer position at SpaceX, I would express a deep-rooted passion for maritime operations and fascination with space exploration. The opportunity to work at a pioneering company like SpaceX aligns perfectly with my professional aspirations, enabling me to engage in innovative operations while contributing to a mission that aims for extraordinary achievements.

When discussing what sets SpaceX apart in the aerospace industry, I’d highlight its commitment to innovation, the ambitious goal of human life on Mars, and a dynamic, culture-driven work environment. The integration of cutting-edge technology and cross-disciplinary collaboration fosters unparalleled development in aerospace and marine operations, making it an inspiring place to work.