Operations Centre Shift Lead

XOCEAN Operations Centre Shift Lead Company

Location: Dundalk, Co. Louth, Ireland.

This is an office-based role. This role operates on a 12-hour rotating shift schedule.

About XOCEAN
XOCEAN is an ocean data company – we collect data for clients ranging from mapping the seabed to monitoring the environment. We strive to set the gold standard for ocean data delivery by providing high quality data and analytics to businesses in the ocean economy. However, we do this differently, instead of using conventional crewed survey ships, we have developed a marine robotic system known as an Uncrewed Surface Vessel (USV). Our mission is to deliver exceptional ocean data; responsibly, safely and on time, every time.

Overview
As XOCEAN continues to evolve and align our operations for the future, we are seeking a highly capable and detail-oriented Operations Centre (XOC) Shift Lead to oversee the execution of global survey projects during their assigned 12-hour shift, on a “4 on – 4 off” rotation. This role is physically located in the XOCEAN Operations Centre in our Dundalk facility. A key function of this role is to ensure shift delivery against plan. Reporting to the Operations Lead you will be responsible for managing shift level operations, coordinating resources and ensuring effective communication between teams and XOCEAN leadership.

Main Duties & Responsibilities

Lead operational safety oversight. Actively promote and comply with XOCEAN’s safety management system, processes, and the Management of Change and Operational Risk Assessment procedures. Support the USV Pilot during emergencies by ensuring correct escalation, logging, and decision-making, strictly following the company's Emergency Control Flow Sheet. Escalate operational issues within the organization as needed.

Shift Utilisation and Operations Ownership: Fully responsible for achieving the Shift Utilisation KPIs. This involves real-time monitoring of active survey operations to ensure alignment with shift milestones and deliverables. Proactively manage production efficiency by applying lean manufacturing principles, focusing on waste reduction, process optimisation, and continuous improvement across operations.

Project Operational Coordination: Act as the primary shift-level coordinator ensuring seamless communication and task execution between the online surveyors, USV Pilot/Master and 3rd party contractors. Manage daily project schedules and coordinate resource allocation with the Resource Planner. Ensure effective handover to incoming / outgoing shifts, maintain continuity of operations and clearly communicate shift objectives and targets.

Real-Time Risk and Progress Monitoring: Maintain full ownership of real-time survey monitoring and operational oversight through continuous use of operational dashboards, telemetry data, and live video feeds. In consultation with USV Pilot/Master, proactively assess operational and environmental risks and system performance. Ensuring that any emerging issues are identified early and addressed effectively. Implement immediate mitigation actions as required to meet deliverables.

Technical Issue Resolution and Escalation: Serve as the primary point of contact ('Go to person') for all technical issues during the shift. This includes following documented problem-solving processes in technical resolution and effectively escalating to technical support teams with clear, documented problem statements and system logs.

Data Integrity and Reporting: Responsible for the collection and validation of shift-level operational data and KPIs. Accurately track and report on shift performance and shift milestones.

Continuous Improvement (CI) and Standardisation: Key stakeholder in operational continuous improvement within shift operations and the program management function by identifying process bottlenecks, documenting best practices, and standardising operating procedures to improve safety, quality, and efficiency.

Requirements
Essential Skills / Experience

3+ years' experience in project, operations management or other relevant experience, ideally on a shift basis.

Strong organisational skills with demonstrated ability in operational monitoring and control.

Excellent communication and team coordination ability.

Demonstrated ability to resolve project issues and to make decisions under pressure.

Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet tight deadlines.

Attributes

Strong decision-making abilities.

Strong organisational and time-management abilities.

Proactive problem-solver with a continuous improvement mindset.

Strong attention to detail and high level of accuracy.

Proven ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive data.

Strong leadership and teamwork skills.

Desirable Experience

Experience in Marine based operations.

Experience in organisational change management and transformation initiatives.

Experience in environmental, health and safety regulations and standards.

Diploma or higher qualification in project/operations management, engineering or related field.

Apply

Applicants must demonstrate how they meet the essential criteria. Desirable criteria may be used for further shortlisting.

We thank all candidates for their interest, however due to very high volumes, only those who are selected for further consideration will be contacted directly.

To be eligible for this position you must have a valid working visa / permit to work in Ireland

Please apply online and follow the instructions or submit your CV to careers@xocean.com

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