Boating Safety Specialist

Job Purpose 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 km² suburban campus directly on the Red Sea, a residential city of >

8,000 residents, university campus with 200,000 m² 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.

Major Accountabilities Boating Safety Oversight

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.

Training and Education

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.

Emergency Preparedness

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.

Regulatory Compliance

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.

Incident Investigation

Lead boating incident investigation as subject matter expert.

Boat Maintenance and Inspection

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.

Risk Assessment and Management

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.

Documentation and Reporting

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.

Dive Program Collaboration and Assistance

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.

Competencies

Strong knowledge of boating safety, marine safety, dive safety regulations, standards, and best practices.

Analytical and problem‑solving abilities, with a proactive approach to identifying and mitigating risks.

Attention to detail and a commitment to ensuring the highest standards of safety and compliance.

Proficiency in conducting risk assessments and incident investigations and implementing corrective actions.

Ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders, including researchers, staff, students, and external partners.

Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively train and educate others on boating safety.

Familiarity with boating operations and equipment, including inspection procedures.

Strong organizational skills, with the ability to develop and maintain comprehensive safety documentation.

Commitment to professional development and continuous improvement in the field of boating safety.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as maritime studies, marine engineering, or safety management.

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.

Possession of a DANDiving First Aid for Professional Divers certification.

Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and other relevant software applications.

Fluency in English, both written and spoken; proficiency in Arabic is preferred.

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