Summary
Overview
Work history
Education
Skills
Languages
Affiliations
References
Experience
Timeline
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Matthew Brown

Newcastle upon Tyne,Tyne and Wear

Summary

Driven and highly capable Officer of the Watch (Unlimited) with proven experience on research vessels, delivering safe and precise navigation in demanding coastal and offshore environments. Expert in bridge watchkeeping and advanced navigation systems, with a strong track record supporting complex scientific operations that require accuracy, adaptability, and sound judgement. Recognised for maintaining the highest standards of safety, regulatory compliance, and environmental responsibility while thriving under pressure. A proactive and dependable officer who brings strong leadership, clear communication, and a commitment to operational excellence from day one.

Overview

4
4
years of professional experience
7
7
years of post-secondary education

Work history

Trainee Navigational Deck Officer

OS Energy
2022.01 - 2026.05
  • Coordinated loading and unloading processes for efficient cargo handling.
  • Enhanced safety onboard by conducting regular inspections of decks.
  • Managed use of navigational aids to ensure safe passage.
  • Maintained communication systems to facilitate seamless information exchange.
  • Oversaw maintenance of decks and superstructure, prolonging vessel lifespan.
  • Demonstrated competence in ship handling manoeuvres, reducing risk of accidents at sea.
  • Liaised with port officials during docking procedures, ensuring compliance with local laws and regulations.
  • Completed detailed log entries faithfully, providing accurate records of voyages.
  • Inspected life-saving equipment regularly, enhancing onboard safety standards.
  • Utilised weather forecasting tools for safe and timely voyage execution.
  • Monitored vessel position using charts and navigational aids.
  • Operated ship radar and electronic charts to verify location and navigation data.
  • Used critical thinking to break down problems, evaluate solutions and make decisions.

Education

OOW -

SQA

SQA Level 3 Diploma - Shipping and Maritime Operations (Deck)

SQA

BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma - Applied Science (QCF)

Newcastle College
Newcastle upon Tyne
2016.09 - 2018.08

GCSEs -

St Mary's Catholic School
Newcastle upon Tyne
2010.09 - 2015.08

STCW II/1 Officer of the Watch (Unlimited) - Advanced Certificate in Nautical Science

South Shields Marine School
South Tyneside

Skills

  • Passionate
  • Team working
  • Leadership skills
  • Resilience and determination
  • Communication in high-stress situations
  • Adaptability to changing conditions
  • Strategic decision-making
  • Resilience under pressure
  • Effective time management
  • Risk assessment aptitude

Languages

English
Proficient (C2)

Affiliations

I'm passionate about maritime vessels and the wider shipping industry, with a strong interest in maritime research and developments at sea. Outside of work, I enjoy keeping fit and playing football, as well as following and supporting my home team. I also have a keen interest in music and travel, taking every opportunity to explore new cultures and destinations around the world.

References

Available upon request

Experience

  • Liaised effectively with key stakeholders, including Bangor University, while working with OSS Energy, ensuring clear communication and successful coordination of operational and research objectives.
  • Conducted safe and efficient bridge watchkeeping on research vessels, maintaining full compliance with COLREGs and company procedures in coastal and offshore environments.
  • Operated and monitored advanced navigational systems including ECDIS, radar/ARPA, AIS, and GPS to support precise positioning during scientific operations.
  • Supported dynamic and restricted manoeuvring operations, including station-keeping and slow-speed navigation for survey and sampling activities.
  • Applied strong understanding of COLREGs in high-traffic and restricted waters, ensuring safe navigation during complex research deployments.
  • Demonstrated effective Bridge Resource Management (BRM), maintaining clear communication with Master, crew, and scientific personnel.
  • Executed detailed passage planning, incorporating research station requirements, environmental considerations, and operational constraints.
  • Assisted in coordinating deck operations including deployment and recovery of scientific equipment, ensuring safety and procedural compliance.
  • Maintained readiness for emergency situations, actively participating in drills and responding to onboard incidents in line with STCW standards.
  • Supervised and collaborated with deck ratings during routine operations, fostering teamwork and maintaining high safety standards.
  • Ensured compliance with international maritime regulations including SOLAS, MARPOL, and ISM Code, with awareness of environmental protection requirements specific to research activities.

Timeline

Trainee Navigational Deck Officer

OS Energy
2022.01 - 2026.05

BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma - Applied Science (QCF)

Newcastle College
2016.09 - 2018.08

GCSEs -

St Mary's Catholic School
2010.09 - 2015.08

OOW -

SQA

SQA Level 3 Diploma - Shipping and Maritime Operations (Deck)

SQA

STCW II/1 Officer of the Watch (Unlimited) - Advanced Certificate in Nautical Science

South Shields Marine School
Matthew Brown