Boating Safety Specialist

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About the Role

The King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) is a world renowned private university located in Thuwal, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia with a 36 km suburban campus directly on the Red Sea, a residential city of >8,000 residents, university campus with 200,000 m of modern research laboratories and a research park with local and global research centers. At the heart of KAUST's mission, the marine operation serves as an essential pillar supporting research, education, and exploration within the marine environment. Leveraging its strategic coastal location, KAUST presents unparalleled opportunities for scientific inquiry and breakthroughs in marine science and oceanography. Within KAUST, marine and dive programs comprise various components, including a Marine Science Education and Research Program, Reef Restoration Initiative, and a consultancy arm dedicated to providing expert services on marine and dive projects to the Kingdom.

KAUST owns a fleet of small boats and a research vessel, RV Thuwal, to advance its Marine Science efforts. The RV Thuwal, Saudi Arabia's first research vessel, features a fully equipped research laboratory, enabling exploration of the Red Sea's vast and largely uncharted waters. Additionally, the institution leases liveaboards and other boats as needed, with operations primarily focused on the Red Sea but extending globally. A dedicated team oversees onshore logistics, vessel maintenance, and operations, comprising local sailors and internationally accredited seamen. This team not only operates the research vessel and smaller boats but also supports visiting vessels from other institutions. KAUST marine operations also includes 200 divers that frequently engage in research dives all year around.

The KAUST boating safety specialist is responsible for implementing and overseeing boating safety protocols. This position plays a critical role ensuring the safety aspects of boating operations. The incumbent will collaborate closely with researchers, faculty, students, and staff to promote a culture of safety and compliance with relevant regulations and standards.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement boating safety policies and procedures in accordance with local regulations and best practices.
• Conduct inspections of boats, personal flotation devices (PFDs), and other safety equipment to ensure compliance with safety standards.
• Organize and conduct boating safety training sessions for university staff, students, and other stakeholders.
• Establish safe boating practices, emergency procedures, navigation rules, and the use of safety equipment.
• Develop and maintain emergency response plans for boating accidents, medical emergencies, and other incidents.
• Coordinate with university authorities, local authorities, and emergency services to ensure a timely and effective response to boating emergencies.
• Stay informed about boating regulations and requirements set forth by relevant authorities in Saudi Arabia.
• Ensure that all boating activities conducted by the university comply with applicable laws and regulations.
• Lead boating incident investigation as subject matter expert.
• Coordinate the maintenance and repair of university-owned boats to ensure they are in safe and working condition.
• Conduct pre- and post operation inspections of boats to identify any safety hazards or maintenance issues.
• Assess the risks associated with boating activities and develop strategies to mitigate potential hazards.
• Monitor weather conditions and other factors that may affect boating safety, and make recommendations for operational adjustments as necessary.
• Maintain accurate records of boating activities, including boat inspections, training sessions, and incident reports.
• Prepare reports on boating safety performance and compliance for university administration and regulatory agencies.
• Facilitate alignment of dive and boat safety ensuring compliance with regulations governing scientific diving and boating.
• Collaborate with Dive Safety Specialists to assist researchers and staff in planning dive operations and in field activities, ensuring adherence to safety protocols.
• Assist and collaborate with Dive Safety Training for scientific divers, ensuring that they possess the necessary skills and certifications to safely conduct underwater research.
• Assist and collaborate with dive program and locker operations as required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as maritime studies, marine engineering, safety management or similar.
• Certification or training in boating safety, such as a Boating Safety Certificate or equivalent.
• Prior experience in boating operations in a safety related role.
• Knowledge of international boating standards and procedures in a scientific environment.
• Knowledge of boating regulations and safety standards applicable in Saudi Arabia preferred.
• Possession of current IYT or RYA Instructor certification (or equivalent).
• Possession of current SCUBA certification from an internationally recognized agency required; Instructor & Scientific certifications preferred.
• Fluency in English, both written and spoken; proficiency in Arabic is preferred.

Experience

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in boating safety, preferably in an academic or scientific organization.
• Experience in vessel based diving operations, dive safety is preferred.
• Strong knowledge of boating safety regulations, standards, and best practices, with demonstrated experience in developing and implementing safety programs.
• Experience in incident investigation, emergency response planning, and risk management.

Seniority level

Mid Senior level

Employment type

Full time

Job function

Research

Industries

Higher Education, Research Services, and Environmental Services