Pilot and Berthing Master

Where you fit

Gas plays a crucial role in the global energy landscape, meeting current energy demands while enabling the shift towards decarbonization and, eventually, defossilisation. As a world leader in the gas industry, Shell possesses the expertise, market presence, and customer base to drive this necessary transition. Your work at Hazira Port directly supports this mission by ensuring the safe and reliable delivery of LNGa key enabler of cleaner energy.

In this role, you are responsible in ensuring the safe, efficient, and cost-effective marine operations at Hazira Port and LNG reception facilities. You will also act as a member of the Hazira Port Conservator Body and serve as the Harbour Master during their absence, ensuring continuity in leadership and compliance with port safety and regulatory standards. This role is essential to maintaining Shells commitment to operational excellence, HSSE performance, and regulatory compliance. You will be part of a high-performing marine team that supports the delivery of LNG to Indias energy market, contributing to Shells broader energy transition goals.

Whats the role?

As Pilot and Berthing Master, you will be responsible for pilotage, berthing, and loading master duties, supporting LNG discharge operations, tugboat services, and mooring operations in line with the Concession Agreement and Port User Agreements.

Further accountabilities are as follows:

Provide safe and efficient pilotage for LNG vessels calling at Hazira Port.

Ensure compliance with the Manual of Permitted Operations and navigational safety standards.

Conduct pre-arrival and departure checks of mooring and discharge equipment.

Supervise tugboat operations and ensure tug crews are trained and compliant.

Execute LNG discharge operations in line with ISGOTT, SIGTTO, and OCIMF guidelines.

Ensure vessel compatibility and positive vetting by STASCO.

Organize third-party supervision of LNG loading/discharge.

Maintain safe mooring operations and conduct MOB and emergency drills.

Act as Emergency Response Coordinator and Incident Controller.

Maintain and test Emergency Response Plans and Procedures.

Conduct safety inspections, toolbox talks, and emergency exercises.

Ensure compliance with Shells HSE-MS and national spill response plans.

Complete all cargo documentation accurately and on time.

Liaise with Customs and GMB to ensure smooth operations.

Monitor and report cargo quality/quantity issues.

Inspect and maintain port service vessels, navigation aids, and mooring equipment.

Supervise buoy maintenance and subsea inspections.

Ensure all port and jetty equipment are operational.

Act as Deputy Port Facility Security Officer.

Execute Declaration of Security (DoS) and ensure ISPS compliance.

Maintain security protocols and emergency contact lists.

Coordinate with port authorities, mutual aid groups, and industry bodies.

Support audits, inspections, and continuous improvement initiatives.

What We Need from You

Minimum 810 years of marine experience, including pilotage and terminal operations,

Class Deck Certificate of Competency (Master Mariner) or equivalent with a valid certificate.

Qualified and experienced pilot with a minimum of 2 years of experience handling large vessels in strong cross currents, monsoon weather conditions, and restricted maneuvering areaspreferably in a West Indian port. Similar experience in other ports will also be considered.

Valid Pilot License and experience in LNG vessel operations.

Strong knowledge of ISGOTT, SIGTTO, OCIMF, and Shell HSSE standards.

Proven leadership in emergency response and marine safety.

Sound marine professional with a strong understanding of LNG projects and operations.

In-depth knowledge of LNG discharge operations, quantity and quality (Q+Q) measurements, and cargo documentation.

Experience in establishing port operating procedures and working closely with government authorities.

Completed simulator training for Hazira Port with excellent results.

Hands-on experience operating with ASD (Azimuth Stern Drive) tugs (minimum 4).

Strong interpersonal and negotiation skills.

Excellent communication, coordination, and documentation abilities.

Willingness to work in a shift-based and on-call environment, including during the Southwest monsoon season.