Sea-Watch is Looking for a Skipper for AURORA

 

Application deadline: 12/04/2026

Sea-Watch e.V. is a non-profit initiative dedicated to civil search and rescue operations for refugees. In response to the ongoing humanitarian disaster in the Central Mediterranean, Sea-Watch provides emergency assistance while advocating for and demanding rescue by responsible European institutions. At the same time, we publicly campaign for safe and legal
escape routes. We are politically and religiously independent and financed exclusively through donations.

Aurora is a 14-meter Trent Class rescue vessel adapted for operations in the Central Mediterranean. She can reach a top speed of 22–23 knots. Her operational concept is unique within the civil fleet: she is a pleasure craft, land-based in Lampedusa. The crew remains on standby near the port of operation to respond to emergencies as quickly as possible. During missions, the crew lives together in shared accommodation in a crew house. Due to the small size of the vessel and crew, everyone is expected to assist with manoeuvres (e.g. mooring), guest care, and basic first aid. Clear and constructive
communication is essential at all times. The working language on board is English; additional language skills are welcome.
Please note that seasickness can be a significant issue on Aurora, and applicants should take this into consideration.
Given the vessel’s size and the flat hierarchies on board, we expect the Skipper to actively support the crew on deck whenever bridge duties allow.

Your Responsibilities

  • Ensure the safety of the crew and the vessel
  • Take operational decisions together with the Head of Mission
    Oversee the vessel’s administration
  • Command the vessel in harbour and during SAR operations
  • Prepare documentation for the disembarkation of rescued guests
    Familiarise the crew with the vessel, routine work, and onboard procedures
  • Lead maritime training according to internal training schedules
  • Carry out deck maintenance during missions and act as focal point and trusted contact for deck-related
    works during shipyard periods
  • Provide leadership and guidance within the team, being role model for the crew, fostering a culture of mutual respect
  • Maintain communication with Sea-Watch back office structures, reporting technical
    failures or equipment improvement needs, and providing clear feedback and
    suggestions

Required Qualifications and Skills

  • German SBF See licence or equivalent pleasure craft licence without
    distance-from-coast limitations
  • Valid Radio Operator’s Certificate (or willingness to obtain it)
  • Strong experience in rescue operations (minimum two SAR rotations in a
    decision-making position, not necessarily as Captain)
  • Strong experience as Skipper on vessels similar to Aurora (twin engine, no bow
    thruster)
  • Excellent communication and decision-making skills
  • Respectful and collaborative team player
  • Proven leadership experience at sea, with a communicative leadership style
  • Very good English skills (oral and written)
  • Adaptation skills and willingness in sharing spaces and living with crews
  • Respectful of local realities where we operate
  • Physical fitness and mental resilience

Particularly Desired

  • Basic Italian language skills
  • Experience working with volunteers, including individuals with limited nautical
    experience

Payment Model

  • Salary: €3,360 per month (gross, employee basis)
  • Rotation schedule: 1 month on / 1 month off (rotations of 35 days)
  • Salary is paid monthly

Are you interested?

Please apply via our online application form and submit:

  • A letter of motivation (maximum 500 words) answering the following question:
    “In your own words, describe the specific impact you hope to make through your contributions to Sea-Watch’s efforts. What drives your commitment to our cause?”
  • A CV without photo

The letter of motivation and CV must be submitted as one single PDF document.

If you have already applied via the application form, please submit your application again.

We are committed to an inclusive society free of racism and with freedom of movement for all. In the case of equal qualifications, we particularly welcome applications from women*, LGBTQAI+* persons, BIPoC, people with disabilities, people with migration experience, and individuals from groups underrepresented in the maritime and NGO sector. We actively encourage FLINTA* individuals to apply and are committed to fostering a safe and respectful working environment on board. To support this, Sea-Watch has a dedicated supervision department that all members can contact at any time to get professional help. If you identify with any of these groups, we encourage you to indicate this in your application.

Please refrain from including a photo, age, or marital status in your application.