Trial Captain – Sea Trials Lead

About the role

As a Trial Captain you will lead the planning, coordination and execution of sea trials for newly built vessels at Damen Song Cam Shipyard in Hai Phong. You will act as the operational authority during harbor acceptance tests, sea acceptance tests and vessel delivery voyages, ensuring compliance with contractual, regulatory and safety requirements.

Key responsibilities

• Plan, organise and lead harbour acceptance tests (HAT), sea acceptance tests (SAT) and delivery trials.
• Serve as the primary operational authority onboard, coordinating with project teams, classification societies, customers and subcontractors.
• Verify vessel performance against specifications, monitor navigation, propulsion, steering and safety systems during trials.
• Identify deficiencies, coordinate corrective actions and prepare trial reports, punch lists and final acceptance documentation.
• Support vessel delivery voyages and ensure successful hand‑over to clients while promoting a strong safety culture.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Navigation and valid maritime certificates of competency for command‑level functions.
• Minimum 5 years of seagoing experience, preferably in command or senior deck officer roles.
• Experience conducting sea trials, commissioning activities or vessel delivery in a shipbuilding environment.
• Familiarity with tugboats, workboats or offshore commercial vessels is an advantage.

Required skills

• Advanced navigation and vessel performance monitoring.
• Propulsion, steering and maneuvering system assessment.
• Safety systems evaluation and compliance with international maritime regulations and class rules.
• Sea trial reporting and documentation preparation.

What we offer

• Dynamic international work environment focused on technology and innovation.
• Competitive salary package with holiday, Tet and quarterly bonuses.
• Monthly fuel allowance, 24/7 accident and health insurance for employees and spouses.
• Full social insurance contribution according to Vietnamese regulations and business‑trip allowances for trial voyages.
• Extensive training, development opportunities and chance to work on global Damen projects.