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Country of Citizenship:  USA

 

Job Announcement:  POA #11-106-01 MP

 

 

KSA RESPONSES

 

KSA 1: Knowledge of navigation methods, equipment, and techniques.

With many years of progressive maritime and navigation experience in positions ranging from Able Body Seaman and Boatswains Mate to most recently Deck Watch Officer/3^rd Officer, I offer comprehensive knowledge of and practical skills in navigation methods, equipment and techniques. For instance, as the Navigator onboard USNS Alan Shepard, I capitalized on Variable Range Marker skills in defining ship position during complex maneuvers, arrivals and departures throughout the Pacific Region and employed radar proficiencies toward optimizing performance in tracking vessels.

 

During open water transits, I have routinely employed GPS units to efficiently identify my ship s position and have productively used the sextant during sun/star visibility to plot accurate celestial fixes; using these tools, I ve effectively compared my celestial fixe to ship position on the ECDIS and GPS to define true position.   I have also used the ECDIS along with DR positions to determine optimal time to turn and make heading adjustments; this has been instrumental in near-coastal and strait transits, where I ve relied extensively on my talent for rapidly and accurately plotting terrestrial fixes on the chart as well as updating DR positions while successfully circumventing traffic and making course changes for new tracks. As Navigator and 3^rd Officer, I also used STELLA navigation program to find stars true bearing and used that information to accurately calculate compass error.

 

In capacity of 3^rd Officer on the USNS Bridge, USNS Salvor, USNS San Jose, and USNS Amelia Earhart, I ve had the opportunity to navigate from the Pacific Ocean to the Persian Gulf.  In partnership with senior personnel, I have safely navigated the USNS Salvor from her position alongside the Sandakan, Malaysia pier into open waters as well as navigated USNS San Jose through the straits of Malacca into safe waters.  As 3^rd Officer, I ve collaborated with the Navigator in maximizing operations by maintaining up-to-date chart corrections with latest Notice to Mariners, laying out tracks on charts and updating routes in ECDIS and GPS units.  Further, I ve prepared twice-daily detailed synoptic weather reports.  I have also scanned NAVTEX and the Internet for critical information on wind, waves or poor visibility detrimental to ship safety in order to define and implement proactive strategies for mitigating risk.

 

I have effectively used radar to maintain ship relative position within required formation while steaming in formation with US Navy ships as well as used radar VRMs as reference for ship position in formation when running with the US Navy. Earlier in my career as a Boatswain s Mate on the USNS Concord, USNS Yukon and USNS Rappahannock, I held collateral duties as Coxswain, with accountability for safely driving and perfectly maneuvering the rescue boat in various types of currents and weather conditions to ensure safe transport of passengers during drills or testing of the rescue boat. Complementing my many years of practical experience, I have taken the initiative to participate in intensive trainings and courses during my career including, among others, Second Mate of Ocean Steam or Motor Vessels Any Gross Tons at Maritime Professional Training (MPT) as well as earlier STREAM School.

KSA 2: Skill in oral and written communications to include using shipboard computer systems and programs.

I offer dynamic oral and written communication skills as well as proficiency in shipboard computer systems and programs gained over the course of many years of experience.  For example, as Navigator onboard the USNS Alan Shepard, I effectively delivered numerous arrival and departure briefs to key personnel, with focus on ensuring provision of all pertinent information vital to staff preparedness.   I ve developed and presented written arrival and departure reports for all Department Heads and key personnel.

 

While 3^rd Officer, I also presented pre-arrival port brief training to unlicensed watch personnel as well as facilitated frequent oral training in ship orders and safety briefs before all UNREPs.  As AMPC Officer on the USNS Flint, I provided environmental training before arriving to port as well as related quarterly and annual trainings to ship crew members.  Similarly, as DC Locker Leader on multiple ships, I ve provided quality training on damage control techniques as well as fire fighting tools and equipment. In capacity of 3^rd Officer Watch and 3^rd Officer Day, I proficiently maintained, developed and submitted detailed logs in a clear and concise format for review by the Navigator and approval of the Captain.

 

In facilitating communications, I ve relied heavily on technology-driven tools, including using shipboard computer systems and Web pages to deliver quality written arrival and departure reports.  While Navigator on USNS Alan Shepard, I effectively used MS Excel to prepare numerous sail plans supporting operations across the Pacific Region; this included making frequent plan changes to avoid a tropical storm during transit on the coast of the Philippines per Optimum Track Ship Routing (OTSR) recommendations and entailed 4 different sail plans over the span of 6 days with multiple tracks through the Philippine islands.  Using MS Excel spreadsheets, I ve assisted with Wright MOVREP and WEAX weather reports. 

 

While 3^rd Officer Watch and as 3^rd Officer Day, I routinely submitted personnel updates to the Chief Mate and flight quarter reports and time sheets to department heads via e-mail communications.   I ve used MS Word to efficiently write night orders to 3^rd Officers on watch as well as create training materials for licensed and unlicensed watch personnel; I ve also used MS Word in preparing watch bills for Bridge personnel while in port and in developing check lists. Using MS Outlook, I ve effectively corresponded with the Master, Chief Mate and other personnel in order to efficiently coordinate rendezvous positions and ETA for ship operations.  In capacity of Navigator, I further corresponded with contractors shore side to address issues with navigational equipment in updating the C-Map on the Electronic Chart Display and Information System (ECDIS).

As Officer of the Watch serving as center of communications, in the wheelhouse I routinely used 1MC, VHF radios, UHF walkie-talkies and the ship s telephone, as well as spoke directly to the helmsman or lookout.  This allowed me to effectively respond to and prioritize multiple calls while maintaining concentration on traffic and overall operations.  I also communicated via Navy circuits using proper signals and protocols in preparing for and during UNREPs.  In this position, I also used Emrpise to write daily ship s log as well as reviewed 3^rd Officer s logs for quality assurance. I have also employed SAMMS for monthly operational tests and Bridge equipment repair requests detailing reasons for repair.


KSA 3:  Ability to interpret and analyze information, make decisions, plan, organize, evaluate and supervise the work of others.

In both leadership and support capacities, I have consistently exhibited the ability to effectively interpret and analyze complex information as well as employ sound judgment and leadership skills in decision making, strategic planning, organization, supervision, and evaluation of personnel.  Illustrating my strong leadership and decision making abilities, I have often been charged with carrying out responsibilities of the Master and Senior Deck Officers in their absence and assuming command of the ship; throughout my career have routinely been appointed a Team Lead

 

While Officer of the Watch and Navigator, I became proficient in rapidly assessing information and applying detailed analysis toward making prompt decisions in time-sensitive settings.  Taking a proactive approach toward making decisions, I have actively listened to/monitored other ships on VHF during my watch, paid close attention to changes in RADAR vectors, taken visual bearings of contacts, and detected targets at long range in order to develop operational and contingency plans instrumental to mitigating potential problems arising from traffic situations or strait transits.    I have also effectively determined relative wind and sea state in order to expertly recommend Romeo Corpen for CONREP and/or VERTREP. During my watch I have ensured current knowledge of weather in the vessel s path by diligently scanning forecasts and reports in order to accurately predict what kind of wind, seas, and visibility may affect our voyage, and have been relied upon to report weather findings to the Captain as well as recommend any route diversions.

 

On numerous occasions as Watch Officer during man overboard drills, my dynamic analysis and decision making skills have proven instrumental in successfully directing the bridge team and engine room in effectively maneuvering the vessel and recovering the MOB (Oscar).  In this position, I was entrusted with all maintenance of the wheelhouse, bridge wings and bridge level exterior, including directing personnel in preparing their workspace, using proper PPE and achieving project completion timelines.  To maximize performance, I routinely trained watch standers and midshipmen in navigation and seamanship.  Further, I was responsible for writing personnel evaluations and developing performance reports for presentation to the Chief Mate and Captain.

Going beyond duties detailed in Master s Standing Orders, in capacity of Watch Officer and Navigator I have consistently assured my watch is maintained in a proper and efficient manner by strategically assigning lookouts ensuring AB steers the correct course and that all watch standards are effectively carrying out all assigned orders.  I have held accountability for organizing and supervising work of my watch team as well as the Bridge team, including conducting and reporting on performance evaluations to maximize individual and team results.

As Boat Officer during RHIB boot operation, I ve been highly successful in steering boat launches and recoveries in a safe and timely manner as well as supervised the Boat Coxswain during small boat transfer operations. Earlier in my career as Boatswain s Mate, I contributed my strong leadership skills during UNREPs toward ensuring assigned personnel were clear on tasks prior to inception of evolution as well as supervised my team throughout operation, with a strong focus on safety precautions and standard operating procedures (SOPs) compliance.

KSA 4:  Knowledge of shipboard safety and security programs, including lifesaving and firefighting equipment, methods and techniques.

With extensive maritime experience, I am well-versed in shipboard safety and security programs, including lifesaving and firefighting equipment, methods and techniques.  For instance, as Deck Officer and Navigator onboard the USNS Alan Shepard, I routinely reviewed and consulted in SMS instructions, ensuring all Bridge personnel were in compliance with SMS procedures.

 

On duty as occasional CDO, I have successfully ensured that the gangway watch and reaction force members properly handle weapons and carried out their duties, and during security alert drills, I ve effectively briefed each reaction force member on weapon safety and communication protocol prior to team deployment. Serving as a Repair Party Leader, I productively organized and trained personnel in quickly, effectively and safely responding to emergencies throughout the ship, ensuring each team member was thoroughly familiar with gear and available equipment within the locker as well as throughout the ship.

 

While 3^rd Officer aboard the USNS Bridge, USNS Flint, USNS Salvor and USNS Amelia Earhart, I spearheaded regular inspections of ship lifeboats and equipment, ensuring safety, functionality and efficient inventory management, and was charged with facilitating any missing, damaged or expired items ordering and replacement. During abandon ship drills, I also instructed crewmembers on lifeboat/life raft launching and survival techniques, as well as proper donning of survival suits and floatation vests.  While aboard these ships, I successfully piloted man overboard trainings, employing Williamson turns and round terms to maneuver ships to markers.  Illustrating my expertise in this area, as Rescue Boat Commander, my RHIB crew achieved a high level of proficiency in successfully retrieving the practice dummy during an unannounced night man overboard drill. 

During my time as Able Body Seaman on the USNS San Jose, I was selected to be in charge of the Helo-Locker; with responsibilities ranging from performing monthly inspections of the Mark 1 life vest and replacing CO2 auto-inflators to maintaining supplies of life vests and cranials as well as ensuring the crash kit was fully stocked and in good repair.   

 

Further illustrating my expertise in shipboard safety operations, I served as Fire Marshal on the USNS Observation Island. In this capacity, I was accountable for all fire fighting and repair locker equipment, requiring monthly inspections of fire extinguishers, operational tests of fire vents and inspection of fire hoses and nozzles. I also managed the repair locker inventory, including ordering new parts.  In this position, I capitalized on the opportunity to acquire training in proficiently operating the AFFF system, deploying from the foam room to the flight deck to fight fires.

KSA 5: Knowledge of cargo operations including those involving dry stores, munitions, petroleum products and helo operations (VERTREP).

My career has required a comprehensive knowledge of cargo operations, including those involving dry stores, munitions, petroleum products, and helo operations (VERTREP).  During port visits as 3rd Officer Day onboard USNS Amelia Earhart, I effectively supervised the safe and accurate loading of dry stores and ordnance, ensuring different types of cargo came aboard at the correct stations. I also directed fork drivers in segregating cargo types for different ships. In this position, I also collaborated in keeping and running inventory of ship ordinance, rapidly mastering skills in using the Retail Ordnance Logistic Management System (ROLMS) database, ordnance compatibilities and ordnance Hazards of Electronic-magnetic Radiation to Ordnance (HERO) susceptibles.  I efficiently tracked all transfers from our last ammo load-out in Indian Island to latest CONREP, VERTREP and RHIB ammo transfers.

 

In port, I also carried out and completed the DOI checklist prior to loading DFM and JP5 as well as often supervised as chick sans were connected or disconnected. While at sea, I supervised fuel stations and conducted FAS with several customers.  At sea, I also directed early-morning chill and freeze break-outs for aircraft carrier CONREPS. In preparation for each UNREP, I effectively ensured each station had time sheets, walkie-talkies and readied shot line rifles.  On an as need basis, I was entrusted with relieving the Assistant Cargo Mate as FDO during flight operations; concurrently, I routinely collaborated with the Assistant Cargo Mate in staging the flight deck for upcoming and ongoing VERTREP.

 

Earlier as Boatswain s Mate on numerous ships, I participated in all phases of on-loading cargo, including operating the cargo winches, driving 6K fork trucks, palletizing cargo, and performing general maintenance using varied power and hand tools.  Handling varied types of cargo while on the USNS San Jose, USNS Niagara Falls, USNS Concord, and USNS Yukon, I participated in countless CONREPs at sea, efficiently transferring dry, chill and frozen stores as well as munitions and fuel. During refueling at sea, as Rig Captain I provided and received DFM, JP-5 and potable water. I held full accountability for preparing the fueling rig, including rigging the hoses, maintaining the probe, pre-staging the slings, and staging  messenger and phone lines. Additionally, I prepared cargo for transfer via Vertical Replenishment, placing cargo in nets, rigging the slings and staging the cargo on the flight deck.

 

 

KSA 6:  Knowledge of ammunition administration, cargo fuel quality assurance and accounting, special mission ship operations, towing and salvage operations, or fleet support operations as Operations Officer (OPSO).

I am well-qualified in administration, cargo fuel quality assurance/accounting, special mission ship operations, towing/salvage operations and fleet support operations having build a career in maritime operations for over a decade.  For instance, as the Navigator onboard the USNS Alan Shepard, I actively collaborated with the US Navy OPSO in coordinating UNREP rendezvous points.

 

Taking the initiative on my own time to acquire proficiency in the Retail Ordnance Logistic Management System (ROLMS) database, I played a vital role in assisting the Cargo Two Officer with keeping and running ship ordnance inventory; I also developed a strong working knowledge of ordnance compatibilities.

 

While 3^rd Officer aboard the USNS Salvor, I was entrusted with taking charge of the stem anchoring station during 3-point mooring operations during multiple mores for salvage and driving operations.