Job Title: Site Manager (New-Building Outfitting, Machinery & Systems Integration)
Location: Esbjerg, Denmark
Project: Offshore Service & Survey Vessel (OSSV) New Build Programme
Start Date: Mid October 2026
Contract Type: Freelance / Contract
Contract Length: 18 Months
About the Client
Our client is delivering a major offshore vessel construction programme in Esbjerg, Denmark, involving the build and delivery of four DP-2 Offshore Service & Survey Vessels (OSSVs). The shipyard is responsible for vessel outfitting, machinery installation, system integration, commissioning, sea trials and final delivery.
Due to continued project demands, they are seeking an experienced Site Manager to act as the Owner’s representative on site, leading the supervision team and ensuring successful project execution through construction, commissioning and delivery phases.
This is an excellent opportunity to join a long-term offshore and marine project, taking responsibility for schedule management, contractor performance, quality control and systems integration across multiple complex vessels.
Role Overview
We are seeking an experienced Site Manager with a strong background in marine construction, vessel new-build projects, machinery installation and commissioning activities.
The successful candidate will act as the Owner’s on-site representative, overseeing the shipyard’s performance while coordinating construction, outfitting, testing and commissioning activities. A key focus of the role will be monitoring programme delivery, identifying schedule risks and ensuring quality and technical compliance throughout the project lifecycle.
This position requires someone who can work independently, challenge programme issues when necessary and maintain strong relationships with shipyard personnel, contractors, class representatives and project stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities
- Act as the Owner’s representative on site throughout the vessel construction programme
- Lead and coordinate the Owner’s site supervision team, including specialist disciplines
- Manage day-to-day communication with the shipyard, contractors and key project stakeholders
- Oversee machinery installation, piping systems, HVAC systems, deck equipment and accommodation outfitting works
- Ensure construction activities comply with approved specifications, drawings, DNV requirements and applicable regulations
- Supervise machinery integration activities, including propulsion, thrusters and auxiliary systems
- Review production, commissioning and delivery schedules to ensure feasibility and progress
- Monitor construction progress against programme milestones and identify potential delays at an early stage
- Drive corrective actions where schedule risks or performance issues are identified
- Conduct quality inspections and manage defects, deviations and non-conformities through to close-out
- Attend FATs, commissioning activities, harbour acceptance tests, sea trials and final vessel delivery milestones
- Review technical documentation, commissioning procedures and test reports
- Maintain punch lists, inspection records and project reporting documentation
- Provide regular progress, quality and technical reports to project stakeholders
- Promote safe working practices and ensure HSE standards are maintained on site
Candidate Requirements
- Degree in Marine Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Naval Architecture or equivalent qualification
- Previous experience as a Site Manager, Owner’s Representative or Site Supervisor on vessel new-build projects
- Strong understanding of marine construction, vessel outfitting and machinery installation activities
- Experience overseeing commissioning, testing, harbour acceptance and sea trial activities
- Knowledge of DNV regulations, flag state requirements and applicable IMO standards
- Practical experience with diesel-electric propulsion systems, thrusters and auxiliary systems
- Strong project management and programme control capabilities
- Ability to analyse schedules, monitor progress and drive recovery plans when required
- Experience managing shipyard performance and contractor coordination
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
- English speaking is essential
- Danish language skills would be advantageous
- German language skills would also be considered a bonus
- Ability to work independently whilst managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced project environment
- Previous offshore vessel or offshore construction project experience would be highly advantageous
Contract Details
- Location: Esbjerg, Denmark
- Industry: Marine / Offshore / Shipbuilding
- Start Date: Mid October 2026
- Duration: 18 Months
- Extension: Potential for extension
- Working Hours: 50 Hours per Week
- Work Arrangement: Full-Time Site Based
- Language: English Required, Danish Advantageous
- Rate: Dependent on Experience