What you need to perform it
Primary qualification
- Internal promotion from the deck crew (roustabout → crew leader) per the contractor's competency matrix (industry practice).
- Accredited rigging and lift-direction competence: OPITO Rigger/Banksman-Slinger scheme at its competence stages (indicative per contractor).
- OPITO BOSIET/FOET with CA-EBS and a valid offshore medical; STCW A-VI/1 per flag.
Basic STCW
- A-VI/1
- OPITO BOSIET
- Certified Rigger/Slinger
Specific courses
- Lift plans and critical/tandem lifts; radio and hand-signal communication
- Rigging inspection: slings, shackles, baskets and certified containers (rigging register)
- Dangerous goods on deck (IMDG) and supply manifests
- Work at height and overside; permit to work
Indicative experience
Indicative: 4-6 years on offshore decks (roustabout and crew leader), with logged hours directing supervised lifts before appointment.
Observations
The operational 'owner' of the deck and the supply-boat window. Progression: Area Man → Crane Operator (OPITO staged crane scheme) or towards Barge Supervisor on floating units.
What this role does
The MODU's deck foreman: plans and directs every lift and cargo move between cranes, pipe deck and work areas, coordinates supply-boat discharge, keeps the deck stowed and safe and links drilling, cranes and logistics. On a congested deck, his lift plan is what separates routine work from a serious incident.
Typical watches
- 12 hour shifts
Key responsibilities
- Coordination of all cargo movement operations on deck.
- Management of spaces, materials and logistical supply.
- Support in mooring operations with supply ships (PSV).
- Safety supervision in loading maneuvers.
Operational scope
- Operational covers
- Interface with supply ships
- Cargo heliport
Profile reviewed by HydroAbyss (2026). Cited rules and timeframes are indicative: the final requirement is set by the flag State, the Administration and each company.