Director, Fleet Operations (RRF)

Accountability; sound judgment; financial and contract acumen; customer leadership; risk identification and escalation; talent development; cross-functional influence; operational planning; clear executive communication; continuous improvement. Act as the senior day-to-day operational and technical point of contact for MARAD on assigned RRF vessels, maintaining clear customer communications and timely escalation of material issues.

Overview:

Who We Are:

Crowley is a privately held, U.S.-owned and operated company serving the maritime, logistics and energy industries with scale in 36 nations and island territories. Our Purpose is to bravely advance what’s possible to elevate people and planet, guided by our values of Integrity, Sustainability and Drive.

 

With more than $3 billion in annual revenue, our solutions provide integrated supply chains with a commitment to safety and reliability in our ocean and land transportation services and facilities.

 

We set high standards, operate with discipline, and continuously improve how we work. Performance, operational excellence and innovation drive how we compete, grow and deliver to our customers and partners.

Work Arrangement:

Hybrid

What You'll Do:

Leads the technical and operational management of assigned Maritime Administration (MARAD) Ready Reserve Force vessels under Crowley’s ship management contract. Accountable for vessel material condition, regulatory compliance, readiness, maintenance and repair execution, shipyard performance, customer confidence, and disciplined financial and contractual performance.

Responsibilities:

Key Responsibilities:

• Act as the senior day-to-day operational and technical point of contact for MARAD on assigned RRF vessels, maintaining clear customer communications and timely escalation of material issues.
• Lead assigned program personnel, establishing performance expectations, developing talent and ensuring clear accountability for fleet outcomes.
• Oversee vessel readiness and activation preparedness, including planned and emergent maintenance, inspections, repairs, drydock periods, material management and readiness-related corrective actions.
• Develop and execute annual vessel work plans, maintenance budgets, funding forecasts and shipyard strategies; maintain visibility into emerging scope, cost and schedule exposure.
• Coordinate shipyard specifications, procurement, contractor performance, work-package changes, milestones, acceptance and closeout; proactively address delays and potential claims.
• Monitor contract performance and the appropriate handling of reimbursable and fixed-price work, funding limitations, required notices, documentation and change control in coordination with Contracts and Finance.
• Ensure compliance with applicable USCG, class, flag, MARAD, environmental, safety and company requirements; track findings and timely closure of corrective actions.
• Lead periodic financial and operational reviews; identify margin leakage, cost drivers, cash-flow exposure and opportunities for process improvement.
• Coordinate with crewing, engineering, procurement, quality and shore-side support functions to ensure execution without gaps in ownership.

Qualifications:

Experience:

 

10+ years of progressively responsible maritime operations, technical management or vessel engineering experience, including demonstrated supervision of shore-side vessel support teams. Experience with government-owned vessels, RRF, drydocks and MARAD contracts strongly preferred. Sea-going experience as a licensed deck or engineering officer is valued but not the only qualifying pathway.

 

Education & Credentials:

 

Bachelor’s degree in Marine Engineering, Naval Architecture, Marine Transportation, Maritime Business, Engineering, Business or related field preferred. Equivalent combination of substantial maritime experience, professional qualifications and demonstrated leadership may be considered, consistent with company policy.

 

Technical Skills:

 

Advanced proficiency in Excel and Microsoft Office; ability to interpret vessel technical records, maintenance plans, cost reports, schedules, contractual requirements and operational dashboards. Familiarity with maritime maintenance (Nautical Systems) and enterprise financial (Cost Point) systems preferred.

 

Competencies:

 

Accountability; sound judgment; financial and contract acumen; customer leadership; risk identification and escalation; talent development; cross-functional influence; operational planning; clear executive communication; continuous improvement.

 

Working Conditions:

 

Office, vessel and shipyard environments; domestic travel and occasional irregular hours for vessel operations and emergent events. May require ladder climbing and access to restricted shipboard spaces, subject to applicable safety requirements and reasonable accommodation.

 

What We Offer? 

 

We inspire top talent by offering a comprehensive and competitive package that supports the diverse needs of our people—on land, at sea, in offices, and remotely.

 

Our Total Rewards include:

 

• Competitive pay with recognition programs 
• Comprehensive benefits: medical, dental, and vision insurance, life and disability coverage, and paid vacation and holidays
• Leave and family support: parental leave and sick leave
• Learning and growth: access to training and development for continuous skill development
• Well-being resources: Employee Assistance Program, wellness program, and gym membership discounts

At Crowley, we invest in you—your success, your health, and your future.

 

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