Operations Team Lead

Context & Environment

• Context
  • Operational purpose – Ensure safe, efficient, and compliant operations on offshore facilities, vessels, or platforms.
  • Organizational role – Acts as the link between onshore management and the offshore workforce.
  • Scope of responsibility – Supervises daily activities, coordinates multi-disciplinary teams (maintenance, drilling, marine crew, contractors), and aligns with project or production targets.
  • Regulatory framework – Operates under local/international offshore safety regulations (e.g., IMO, SOLAS, OSHA, or equivalent).
  • Risk profile – High-hazard environment where safety, environmental protection, and operational reliability are critical.
  • Cultural & team dynamics – Often leads multinational crews with varying languages and work styles.
  • Work schedule context – Usually rotational (e.g., 21 days on/21 days off), which influences leadership style and handover practices.
• Environment
  • Physical environment
    • Offshore platforms.
    • Confined living quarters with limited privacy.
    • Harsh weather (wind, waves, temperature extremes).
    • Noise, vibration, and possible exposure to hazardous substances.
  • Workplace structure
    • Hierarchical but collaborative — coordination with OIM (Offshore Installation Manager), engineers, safety officers, and contractors.
    • 24/7 operational environment with shift rotations.
    • Emergency preparedness culture (drills, musters, evacuation protocols).
  • Tools & systems
    • Computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS).
    • Communication systems (radio, satellite, intranet).
    • Permit-to-work systems and safety management software.
  • Social environment
    • Multi-skilled, multicultural crew.
    • Close teamwork due to isolation.
    • Professional conduct required under stress and fatigue.

Activities

• Safety & Compliance
  • Ensure all operations comply with HSE (Health, Safety, and Environment) regulations, company policies, and legal requirements.
  • Lead safety briefings and toolbox talks before work begins.
  • Identify hazards, conduct risk assessments, and implement controls.
  • Report and investigate incidents, near misses, and unsafe conditions.
• Production & Operations Management
  • Oversee daily offshore production activities to meet operational targets.
  • Monitor process parameters and troubleshoot operational issues.
  • Coordinate maintenance, repair, and shutdown/startup activities.
  • Ensure the integrity of offshore systems, equipment, and facilities.
• Team Leadership & Workforce Management
  • Supervise, guide, and support the offshore crew and contractors.
  • Allocate tasks and ensure work is completed on time and to standard.
  • Provide coaching, performance feedback, and training support.
  • Foster teamwork and maintain crew morale in a remote environment.
• Communication & Coordination
  • Act as the primary point of contact between offshore crew and onshore management.
  • Report daily operational status, challenges, and progress.
  • Coordinate with other departments (maintenance, logistics, safety, engineering).
  • Ensure shift handovers are accurate and thorough.
• Emergency Preparedness
  • Lead emergency response drills and ensure readiness for real emergencies.
  • Take charge during incidents until relieved by designated emergency leadership.
  • Ensure all crew are aware of emergency procedures.
• Resource & Logistics Management
  • Ensure adequate supplies, tools, and spare parts are available offshore.
  • Coordinate supply vessel and helicopter logistics.
  • Optimize resource usage to reduce downtime and costs.
• Continuous Improvement
  • Identify opportunities for operational efficiency and cost savings.
  • Suggest and implement best practices for offshore operations.
  • Participate in audits, reviews, and improvement initiatives

Candidate Profile

• Technical Knowledge – Strong understanding of offshore operations (drilling, production, subsea systems, or marine activities depending on field).
• Leadership Skills – Ability to manage multi-disciplinary teams in challenging environments.
• HSE Awareness – In-depth knowledge of safety procedures, hazard identification, and risk management.
• Problem-Solving – Quick decision-making under pressure.
• Communication – Clear coordination between offshore crews and onshore management.
• Several years of offshore experience in a relevant technical role.
• Leadership or supervisory experience.
• Certifications such as BOSIET (Basic Offshore Safety Induction and Emergency Training), HUET (Helicopter Underwater Escape Training), and OPITO-approved safety courses and MEMIR.

Domain: Production & Operations

Type of contract: Fixed term position

Experience: Minimum 10 years

Employer company: TotalEnergies EP Sarawak Inc.