| Written by Michal Wozniakowski-Zehenter
FPSO Jobs: What does it take to become a Production Control Room Operator?
The Production Control Room Operator monitors the FPSO’s production systems from the control room. This person ensures everything runs smoothly while prioritizing safety, health, and environmental care (see: EHS Risk Management). They track the plant’s status through control panels, spotting any unusual conditions in equipment or systems. Accurate production logs and shift reports are part of their daily tasks. They also guide production operators during equipment startups, shutdowns, and checks, showing a solid grasp of control devices and valves and their impact on the system.
When production pauses, they help maintain basic equipment. Training other operators in the control room and following the Emergency Response Plan are additional responsibilities. To qualify, candidates need a technical or university degree in process operations or similar training, experience with production units, either fixed or mobile, and speak English fluently.
This job requires sharp thinking, focus, and the ability to stay calm under stress. Operators must understand process systems well and make quick, smart choices to keep things stable.
FPSO Jobs: How important is the Production Superintendent role?
The Production Superintendent oversees operations, linking the FPSO with onshore teams. They work closely with the client’s onshore superintendent and offshore supervisor to hit production targets. Their focus includes improving efficiency, monitoring activities, and suggesting ways to save costs while staying within budget. They help plan yearly budgets and create long-term production strategies, ensuring onshore support aligns with offshore needs. Leading meetings with teams and clients, solving problems fast, and directing technicians and contractors are central to the role.
They offer advice on safely running the production plant, gas compression, water injection systems, and other equipment. Reviewing production reports, investigating issues, and coordinating with maintenance staff to keep the plant in top shape are key tasks. They also plan for spare parts and materials and set up safety and operating procedures. A degree in engineering or a related field, along with offshore experience, is typically required. Knowledge of safety rules, permits, and the FPSO’s specific systems is essential, as is English fluency.
This position demands strategic planning, clear communication, and leadership. Balancing technical know-how with management skills, the superintendent drives safety and production success.
Production Operator: Hands-On Action
The role of the Production Operator is to carry out tasks directed by the control room operator and supervisor. They handle daily routines like starting or stopping equipment, isolating systems, and preparing them for use or removal. Operating well control tools, process valves, and monitoring systems in the E-house are part of their work, ensuring everything follows the vessel’s design plan. They also join the Emergency Response Team, training for and responding to emergencies according to rules and best practices. Working with other departments and onshore teams helps optimize operations.
A technical diploma or certification in operations, along with some offshore experience, is usually needed, though beginners with good training can start here. English fluency aids teamwork. This role requires practical problem-solving, physical endurance, and flexibility. Operators must follow detailed instructions and prioritize safety at all times.
Laboratory Technician: Ensuring Quality
The Laboratory Technician focuses on testing and safety, following strict health, safety, and environmental guidelines. They analyze samples of oil, gas, water, and glycol, supporting the operations team with accurate data. Daily duties include preparing reports, calibrating lab tools, and managing chemical pumps for the right injection levels. They safely handle and store chemicals, adhering to COSHH rules, and ensure sample points and transport are secure.
Maintaining lab supplies, interpreting data, and following work permit and isolation standards are also key. They need a degree or diploma in chemistry or a similar field and some lab experience. Understanding process systems or a willingness to learn, plus English fluency, rounds out the requirements. Precision, careful analysis, and chemical knowledge are vital skills. Technicians must work methodically and keep safety first in a fast-paced setting.
Maintenance Supervisor: Keeping It Running
The Maintenance Supervisor, guided by the Offshore Installation Manager, oversees mechanical upkeep. They review technical plans, supervise installations, and suggest safety and efficiency upgrades. Testing equipment, managing the AMOS maintenance system, and training staff on it are core duties. They ensure compliance with vessel classification standards, track equipment conditions, and plan inspections. Ordering parts, maintaining tools, and leading safety talks are part of their scope.
They schedule daily work, prepare for shutdowns, and mentor their team while addressing breakdowns and tracking issues like warranty claims. A degree or diploma in mechanical engineering, offshore maintenance experience, and English fluency are needed. Familiarity with AMOS and classification rules helps. This job requires technical skill, leadership, and planning ability. Supervisors must be proactive and thorough, guiding teams in high-pressure situations.
Cargo Supervisor: Coordinating Deck and Cargo Activities
Last but not least on our FPSO jobs list: The Cargo Supervisor holds a crucial position on a vessel, working under the Chief Mate to manage deck operations and cargo tasks. This role ensures that deck personnel operate with discipline and efficiency, meeting company expectations as well as standards set by the State, Class, Flag, ISM, ISPS, MLC 2006, SOLAS, MARPOL, and client guidelines. By keeping a close eye on the bridge, the Cargo Supervisor directs the team and supports the vessel’s operational goals.
A key task is assisting the Chief Mate with calculations for stability and lifting before any ballasting or crane movements begin. This ensures the vessel’s trim, stability, and stress stay within safe limits outlined by international rules. The Cargo Supervisor helps coordinate crane activities and ballast adjustments while managing interactions with support vessels during loading operations. They also take charge of the ballast control systems, either following the Chief Mate’s instructions or acting independently during their watch.
Documentation is another focus. The Cargo Supervisor organizes navigational charts, nautical publications, and ship files, keeping everything accessible and up to date. They work with the Chief Mate to maintain certifications for cargo gear and lifting equipment, supporting the Lifting/Rigging Certification System and assisting during annual Class inspections. Ensuring pad eye certifications and traceability requirements are met is part of their oversight.
Safety drives much of their work. They report unsafe conditions or actions to the Chief Mate or Master, following health, safety, environmental, and security procedures (see also: Oil Rig Security: Preparing for 2025 and Beyond). The Cargo Supervisor maintains firefighting and life-saving equipment, supports helicopter landings per the training matrix, and fulfils duties in the emergency preparedness manual. They participate in onboard training and drills as directed by the company, SOLAS, and the Master, ensuring readiness for any situation. Any major issue or incident is promptly shared with the Master, and no significant steps are taken without approval.
Communication responsibilities are substantial. The Cargo Supervisor operates and checks the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) equipment, ensuring it meets radio regulations. They maintain a constant watch for distress, urgency, and safety messages, collect weather forecasts and maritime safety updates, and alert the Master immediately if urgent communications arise. Compliance with SOLAS and GMDSS watchkeeping rules is a strict requirement.
The role demands a blend of skills. Precision is vital for managing ballast systems and stability calculations to keep the vessel safe. Leadership helps them guide deck personnel effectively, while strong communication ensures instructions and reports are clear, especially in emergencies. Attention to detail keeps records and certifications accurate, and quick thinking addresses hazards or operational issues. Physical stamina and adaptability suit the active nature of deck duties and emergency tasks, while composure under pressure is critical for handling urgent situations like distress signals or crane coordination.
FAQ
What qualifications do I need to work on an FPSO vessel?
The qualifications needed to work on an FPSO vessel depend on the role. Entry-level positions, such as Production Operator, typically require a technical diploma or certification in process operations, mechanical engineering, or a related field, along with some offshore experience. For specialized roles, such as Production Superintendent or Maintenance Supervisor, a university degree in engineering, mechanical, or electrical disciplines is usually required, along with extensive offshore experience.
Additionally, most FPSO jobs require complete offshore survival training, such as BOSIET (Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training), which includes firefighting, helicopter safety, and first aid. English fluency is also essential for communication between international teams. Other requirements may include HUET (Helicopter Underwater Escape Training) and certifications related to specific equipment or safety regulations. Many employers prefer candidates with previous experience in oil and gas production, offshore platforms, or FPSO-specific systems. Strong problem-solving skills and adaptability are also critical.
What are the biggest challenges of working on an FPSO?
FPSO jobs present unique challenges that require physical and mental resilience. One of the biggest difficulties is the long working hours and rotational shifts. Many FPSO workers follow a 28-day on, 28-day off schedule, spending weeks at sea before returning home. This can be challenging for those with families, as the time away can lead to isolation.
Another challenge is the harsh offshore environment. FPSO vessels operate in remote locations, often facing rough seas and extreme weather. Workers must stay alert and adhere to strict safety procedures to prevent accidents. The complexity of the equipment also means that crew members must constantly monitor systems, troubleshoot issues, and act quickly in emergencies. Despite these challenges, FPSO jobs offer competitive salaries, career growth, and unique work experiences. The teamwork and high-tech environment make it a rewarding career for those who thrive under pressure.
Takeaway
FPSO jobs cover a wide range of skills and training to keep things running smoothly offshore. Control room operators stay focused on systems, superintendents guide the crew, production workers handle hands-on tasks, lab technicians test and check details, and maintenance supervisors fix equipment. Each role needs stuff like problem-solving, clear talking, and a big focus on safety. People bring qualifications—think technical certificates, diplomas, or even engineering degrees—to the table. Working together, they make sure the vessel manages offshore oil or gas without a hitch. It’s tough but rewarding work, and the team’s effort keeps everything on track. For more about FPSO jobs, look at career sites online.
Delve deeper into one of our core topics: Personnel on board
Glossary
The Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) - is an internationally recognized communication system designed to enhance maritime safety and ensure rapid, automated distress alerting and coordination for ships in emergencies. Established by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) under the SOLAS Convention, GMDSS integrates satellite and terrestrial radio communication technologies to provide continuous global coverage. It mandates that ships over 300 gross tonnage (GT) on international voyages carry specific radio equipment for distress, safety, and routine communication.
GMDSS enables vessels to automatically transmit distress signals with their location, ensuring a swift response from rescue coordination centres. It employs systems such as INMARSAT, NAVTEX, EPIRBs (Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacons), SARTs (Search and Rescue Transponders), and DSC (Digital Selective Calling) on VHF, MF, and HF radios. By standardizing emergency communications, GMDSS has significantly improved maritime search and rescue operations, reducing reliance on manual distress transmissions and enhancing ship-to-ship and shore-based coordination. (3)
Sources:
(1) https://maritime-union.com/jobs/fpso
(2) https://www.rigzone.com/a-offshore-fpso-jobs/
(3) https://www.fcc.gov/wireless/bureau-divisions/mobility-division/maritime-mobile/ship-radio-stations/global-maritime
Author
Michal Wozniakowski-Zehenter, Marketing Manager
Michal Wozniakowski-Zehenter is an experienced marketing and project management professional. He spent most of his career on projects with a strong focus on digital marketing and event management. He is a very active voice representing offshore and mining industries through social media channels. Michal writes mainly about offshore oil and gas, renewable energy, mining and tunnelling. Compiling and sharing the knowledge within industries is one of his goals.
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