Job Description and Activities
In VTS Centres where one or more VTS operatives are on duty simultaneously, it is likely that a requirement will exist for a VTS Supervisor who would have responsibility for co-ordinating the activities and performance of the operatives. This can include:
- Supervising the day to day operation of the VTS Centre – the VTS Supervisor is normally required to ensure there are sufficient operators on duty at any given time and that they are working effectively and that all equipment is functioning correctly.
- Handling emergency situations – the port control centre would be the hub of communication for any existing or potential emergency situation. The Supervisor would be required to ensure that operatives follow the requirements of contingency plans and help to co-ordinate activity with the relevant parties.
- Communicating effectively – a VTS Supervisor is required to communicate with various people including the ship’s master, port/terminal operators, Maritime Coastguard Agency, shipping agents, weather forecasters and, when required, the emergency services. As they will have responsibility for co-ordinating the work of VTS operatives, they will also need to communicate with both operatives and managers. They will be required to use a variety of communications equipment including marine radar, VHF radio, radio telephone, computer terminals, telephones, fax and telex.
The Working Environment
VTS Supervisors must have excellent verbal communication skills, be able to work under pressure and as part of a team and possess good leadership qualities.
Salary
A VTS Supervisor’s salary can range from £20,000 to £35,000, depending on experience and the size and location of their port.
Entry Requirements
The current entry requirement for VTS Supervisor is the IALA V-103/2 VTS Supervisor, or STCW 95 II/2 Master’s Certificate of Competence. A foundation degree is in development which will feature a pathway in VTS Supervision.
Career Development
The standard career path for a VTS Supervisor is to become a harbour master of marine pilot. Traditionally marine pilots often require experience as a ship’s master, but this expectation is changing. A foundation degree is in development which will feature a pathway in marine pilotage.