A dynamic positioning operator is a person on board who is able to control the vessel using various control modes of dynamic positioning (DP) system and switch back to manual or joystick control in any time.

The DP system is maintaining automatically fixed or relative position and/or heading by the use of all connected propellers, rudders and thrusters.

In turn, the DP controller/computer is estimating what thruster force should be used to hold position and/or heading. The DP operator takes a place at the DP console and constantly monitors whether the ship is in position and all thrusters, sensors are working properly.

Takes part in the planning of DP operation considering all the risks that may occur during the operation. Before DP operation starts operator should set-up DP system and complete trials, checklists according to company policy. Once the vessel is set-up in DP, operator moves the vessel to a worksite in meantime adjusting parameters like speed, rate of turn, heading, length of steps.

When is reached final location, operator monitors the DP system’s capability to hold fixed/relative position or ability to follow pre-determined track. At the same time adjusts the position reference systems as well as responds to failures within the system.

For example:

• Station Keeping: Verifying DP systems capability to hold desired position or track within normal deviations from setpoint which is vital for tasks like offshore drilling, pipe laying or subsea construction.
• Monitoring Systems: Continuously checking status of heading, motion, wind sensors and position reference systems so that all components working properly.
• Emergency Response: Take correct actions to prevent a major incident or blackout.

At the Novikontas Training Centre, we offer a complete package that will make you a certified Dynamic Positioning Operator (DPO). Our courses are specifically designed to equip learners with necessary skills and knowledge required for success in this crucial maritime sector. Here are the steps to follow in order to become certified through our training programme:

Dynamic Positioning induction
This is basic course which provides students with basics of dinamic positioning systems including system functionality, operation procedures as well as fundamental principles behind DP operations; it’s an essential starting point for beginners in dynamic positioning.

Dynamic Positioning Advanced/Simulator course
Upon completion of induction course, advanced simulator training at Novikontas takes trainees through more complex scenarios. The use of up-to-date simulators ensures that you enhance decision-making skills and operational abilities by replicating real life situations during the training.

Dynamic Positioning Revalidation Course
Novikontas offers revalidation course so as to keep your skills current. This is important in ensuring that one remains certificated while also staying updated with latest developments in DP systems and operations.

Dynamic Positioning Sea Time Reduction Course
This course is designed to enhance your skills and better prepare you for the required sea time. It provides advanced simulator training, offering additional practical experience that complements your time on board a DP vessel, helping you to be more effective during actual operations.

The DP Refresher and Competency Assessment Course
There is also refresher combined with competency assessment offered by Novikontas. Its purpose is not only updating competence level but also maintaining highest standards of competence as DPOs.

Dynamic Positioning Vessel Maintainer Course
For those interested in technical aspect of dynamic positioning, this course deals with maintenance and repair aspects related to DP systems. It equips learners with deeper technical understanding necessary for effective management of equipment upon which DP operations depend on.

After completing the above courses and gaining required practical experience, one can now go for final assessment in order to obtain their dynamic positioning operator's certificate. This certification is accepted worldwide by several key industry bodies such as The Nautical Institute and International Marine Contractors Association (IMCA); it proves that you are competent enough to work as a DP operator anywhere. All these courses at Novikontas are approved by the Nautical Institute.

When you train with us at Novikontas, not only do we teach theory but also give hands-on skills plus an internationally recognized qualification which will enable a successful career path in dynamic positioning.

The dynamic positioning system consists of three sub-systems:

• Control System (DP console, computer, GPS, gyro…)
• Thruster System (Propellers, rudders, z-drives…)
• Power System (Generators, UPS, switchboards….)

In the environment where there is neither wind nor waves then for station keeping is necessary only one position reference system (e.g. GPS) and one heading sensor (e.g. gyro). Of course, in the offshore always will be some wind and waves therefore to compensate these forces wind and motion sensors should be applied.

The brains of DP system are controllers/computers which calculates the total force which is necessary to hold position or move vessel from one point to another. The controllers/computers give command to thruster control units subsequently all thrusters working together to hold vessel in position or move to new location. To ensure that it all works there must be enough power supply to thruster and control systems.

For this reason, power system is installed on board which includes not only generators and switchboards but also in case of blackout UPS will supply DP control system.

Motion Reference Units (MRUs) are one type of sensor used in a dynamic positioning system along with wind sensors, which sense environmental forces acting on board a vessel. Such details continuously feed into dynamic positioning control systems where they adjust stability immediately.

In complicated marine operations especially deep-sea waters, DP systems are important since they help vessels maintain their positions during these activities. In industries like offshore drilling, subsea construction and cable laying among others where precision stability and position maintenance is required for safety as well as operational efficiency.

Dynamic positioning operators play a crucial role in marine industry particularly offshore oil and gas industry, deep water drilling sector and subsea construction field among others. They ensure that DPO vessels remain stable and operational under harsh environmental conditions.

DPOs have the following duties:

• Safety Enhancement: DPOs prevent accidents, equipment failures and environmental damages by maintaining vessel’s position.
• Increasing Efficiency: Operations become more efficient when accurate positioning reduces downtime as well as operational costs.
• Supporting Complex Operations: Precise stabilization is required during underwater constructions which can be done only through involvement of DPOs who enable such tasks to be performed using vessels capable of remaining steady in one position.

There is a huge demand for Dynamic Positioning Operators (DPO) in the maritime industry around the world. This is because most of the job opportunities need accuracy and stability while working under difficult conditions.

Here are some of the common career paths for certified DPOs:

1. Offshore Oil and Gas
2. Subsea Construction
3. Supply Vessels
4. Wind Farm Installation
5. Cable Laying Vessels
6. Research and Survey Vessels

Having an internationally recognized DP certificate like those provided by Novikontas Training Centre opens up many opportunities for working abroad in different parts of the globe with varying conditions which can be very rewarding both financially and professionally within this field. Apart from offering good salaries, this specialization also offers chances for promotions within maritime industry itself.