Chief Electrician Offshore Jackup Rig

Position Overview

The Chief Electrician is responsible for leading all electrical operations, maintenance, and troubleshooting activities on the offshore jackup rig. The role ensures the safe and reliable functioning of power generation, distribution, and control systems while maintaining compliance with Qatar Energy, IEC/ATEX, and class certification standards. The ideal candidate will have extensive offshore experience and a strong technical background in rig-based electrical systems and safety compliance.

Key Responsibilities 1. Electrical Systems Management

• Supervise maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting of all rig electrical systems, including:

  • Power generation and distribution systems (HV/LV switchgear, transformers, circuit breakers).

  • Drilling and auxiliary equipment (top drives, draw works, VFD systems).

  • Jacking system controls (PLC-driven leg elevation and synchronization systems).

  • Emergency systems (UPS, battery banks, emergency lighting, and alarms).

  • HVAC and refrigeration systems (crew quarters and hazardous area zones).

• Conduct routine inspections and ensure all systems are in optimal operational condition.

• Manage spare parts inventory and coordinate with onshore engineering teams for procurement.

2. Compliance & Safety

• Ensure adherence to Qatar Energy, IEC/ATEX, and Qatar Civil Defense (QCD) standards.

• Perform regular hazardous area inspections (Zone 1 / Zone 2) for explosive atmosphere compliance.

• Enforce and implement Lockout-Tagout (LOTO) and Permit-to-Work (PTW) systems.

• Support audits and safety drills related to electrical safety and emergency readiness.

3. Team Leadership

• Lead and mentor a team of electricians, E&I technicians, and subcontractors.

• Assign work schedules and verify that all maintenance activities are executed safely and efficiently.

• Collaborate with other departments (mechanical, drilling, marine) for integrated maintenance operations.

4. Emergency Response

• Lead troubleshooting during critical failures, such as blackouts, electrical fires, or power system malfunctions.

• Ensure emergency generators, UPS systems, and alarms remain operational at all times.

• Support the Rig Manager/OIM during emergency drills and incident investigations.

5. Documentation & Audits

• Maintain accurate maintenance logs, electrical schematics, and calibration records.

• Prepare documentation for Class inspections (ABS/DNV) and Qatar Ministry of Energy audits.

• Report electrical incidents to Qatar Energy (QE) or chartering entities such as Nakilat when required.

Qualifications & Certifications Mandatory

• Diploma or Degree in Electrical Engineering (or equivalent trade qualification).

• Minimum 10 years of offshore experience, including 5+ years as Chief Electrician on jackup rigs.

• ATEX/IECEx Certification (for hazardous area electrical installations).

• COMPEX (Ex01Ex04) certification highly preferred for Gulf operations.

• BOSIET/FOET with HUET (Offshore Survival and Helicopter Underwater Escape Training).

• QP Safety Passport and Qatar Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) Medical Certificate (valid).

Preferred

• Hands-on experience in Siemens / ABB PLCs and VFDs (critical for jacking and drilling systems).

• HV Switching Certification (for systems up to 6.6kV or 11kV).

• Working knowledge of SAP / CMMS for preventive maintenance and tracking.

Key Competencies

• Strong analytical and diagnostic skills for complex electrical systems.

• Excellent leadership and communication abilities.

• Proven ability to perform under pressure in offshore environments.

• In-depth understanding of safety and environmental compliance standards.

• Proficiency in reading and interpreting electrical schematics and control diagrams.

Working Conditions

• Offshore rotation: 28 days on / 28 days off.

• Work conducted on jackup rigs operating under Qatar Energy jurisdiction.

• PPE, food, accommodation, and transport provided by employer.

---