If you’ve ever seen videos of underwater exploration or maintenance, you’ve likely seen remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) in action. These unmanned submersibles are essential tools for offshore oil and gas exploration, underwater construction, and research.

But who operates and maintains these complex machines? Enter the ROV technician, a highly skilled and in-demand role in offshore environments.

Here we explore the job of an ROV technician in detail, from the tasks they perform to the skills and training required for the job.

What is an ROV Technician?

An ROV technician is responsible for the operation, maintenance, and repair of remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) in offshore environments.

ROVs are used for a variety of purposes, including underwater surveys, inspections, and repairs of offshore infrastructure, such as oil rigs and pipelines.

ROV technicians work on offshore vessels or platforms and are responsible for ensuring that the ROVs are in good working order and can carry out their tasks safely and efficiently. They are also responsible for troubleshooting any issues that may arise with the ROV’s control systems, thrusters, cameras, and other components.

ROV Technician Job Responsibilities

ROV technicians are responsible for a range of duties related to the operation and maintenance of ROVs. Some of these responsibilities include:

• ROV maintenance: ROV technicians are responsible for maintaining and repairing the ROV’s mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic systems. They perform regular checks and inspections to ensure that the ROV is in good working order and that all systems are functioning correctly.
• Control system operation: ROV technicians operate the ROV’s control systems, which include joysticks and other input devices. They use these systems to control the ROV’s movements and carry out underwater tasks.
• Navigation: ROV technicians use navigation systems to track the ROV’s position and ensure that it is in the correct location for the task at hand.
• Inspection and survey: ROV technicians use the ROV’s cameras and sensors to perform inspections and surveys of offshore infrastructure. This can include pipelines, underwater structures, and other assets.
• Equipment deployment: ROV technicians deploy and retrieve the ROV from the water using a winch or crane system.

ROV Technician Skills and Training

ROV technicians require a combination of technical and practical skills to perform their job effectively. Some of the key skills and training requirements for ROV technicians include:

• Mechanical and electrical skills: ROV technicians must have a good understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, including hydraulic systems, motors, and controllers.
• Computer skills: ROV technicians use computer systems to operate the ROV’s control systems and to process data from the ROV’s cameras and sensors.
• Underwater skills: ROV technicians must have excellent underwater skills, including the ability to navigate and operate equipment in challenging underwater conditions.
• Certification: ROV technicians must be certified to operate ROVs in offshore environments. This certification typically includes a combination of classroom and practical training.
• Safety training: ROV technicians must undergo extensive safety training to ensure that they can operate the ROV safely and efficiently in hazardous offshore environments.

The Importance of ROV Technicians in Offshore Environments

ROVs are an essential tool in offshore environments, allowing operators to carry out complex tasks in challenging underwater conditions. Without the expertise of ROV technicians, ROVs would not be able to operate effectively, and the safety of offshore operations would be compromised.

ROV technicians play a crucial role in ensuring that ROVs are in good working order, performing regular maintenance and repairs to keep them operating at peak efficiency. They also have the technical expertise to troubleshoot any issues that may arise with the ROV’s control systems and components, allowing operators to carry out tasks safely and efficiently.

ROV technicians are also responsible for ensuring that the ROV is in the correct position for the task at hand. This requires a high level of skill and expertise in underwater navigation and equipment deployment.

In addition to their technical skills, ROV technicians must also be safety-conscious and able to operate in hazardous offshore environments. They undergo extensive safety training to ensure that they can operate the ROV safely and efficiently, minimising the risk of accidents or injuries.

ROV Technician Career Path

ROV technicians typically start their career in entry-level positions, such as ROV pilot or technician trainee. They may then progress to more senior positions, such as lead ROV technician or ROV supervisor, as they gain experience and expertise.

Some ROV technicians may also choose to specialise in a particular area of ROV operations, such as subsea engineering or inspection and survey. This can lead to more specialised roles and higher salaries.

In Conclusion, ROV technicians play a critical role in offshore environments, operating and maintaining the complex machinery required for underwater exploration, construction, and maintenance. They require a combination of technical and practical skills, including mechanical and electrical expertise, underwater navigation, and safety consciousness.

With the growing demand for offshore energy exploration and production, the need for skilled ROV technicians is only set to increase. For those with an interest in technology, underwater operations, and offshore environments, a career as an ROV technician could be a rewarding and fulfilling choice.