What you need to perform it
Primary qualification
- OIM certification/endorsement under the MODU Code issued or recognised by the unit's flag (with the stability and emergency requirements it sets).
- Twin access routes: marine (Master II/2 with offshore experience) or drilling (senior Toolpusher), completed with the flag-required training for the other side.
- Valid supervisor-level well control (WellSharp Supervisor/IWCF 4) and major-emergency management (OPITO OIM/MEMIR scheme as reference — indicative).
Basic STCW
- STCW A-VI/1 (4 modules)
- A-VI/2 PSCRB / Survival
- A-VI/3 Advanced fire fighting
- A-VI/4 Advanced first aid
Specific courses
- Simulator major-emergency command: fire, blowout, collision, evacuation
- Unit stability and ballast control (floaters) or preload and punch-through (jack-ups)
- Regulatory interface: safety case/SEMS, independent verification and class audits (per regime)
- Installation-level leadership and human factors
Indicative experience
Indicative: 10-15 years offshore with prior command (Master or Senior Toolpusher) and hitches as relief/night OIM before the senior post; the flag may also require type-specific unit time.
Observations
A figure created by the MODU Code: the certificate comes from the flag, not STCW. The emergency call (hold station, disconnect, evacuate) is the unit's highest-consequence decision. Progression: OIM → shore Rig Manager/fleet superintendent.
What this role does
Total responsibility for the installation: people, unit and operation. The OIM commands in emergencies, arbitrates between drilling and marine, answers to contractor, operator and regulator and signs that the unit operates within its safe envelope. On floaters the split with the Master is written; on jack-ups the roles are often combined (per flag).
Typical watches
- 24/7 Availability
Key responsibilities
- Maximum operational and security authority on board the MODU.
- Responsible for compliance with the offshore SMS (Safety Management System).
- Coordination of drilling, marine and service operations.
- Emergency Management and Muster Drills.
- Main interface with the ground operator (Company Man).
Operational scope
- COMPLETE MODE
- Well operations
- Total security on board
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.