Roderick Rivera

I am a Chief Officer with over eight years of experience in the maritime sector, emphasizing safe navigation and management of deck operations. My training in nautical engineering with a specialization in maritime administration and transportation, along with my ability to coordinate operational tasks and supervise deck crews, has allowed me to effectively contribute to the planning and execution of navigation maneuvers, ship maintenance, and the management of safety and quality systems. I have a solid understanding of international maritime legislation, including SOLAS, MARPOL, STCW and COLREG regulations, which has allowed me to ensure compliance with regulations in every operation.

My focus is on safety and operational efficiency, working under pressure and managing unforeseen situations with calm and professionalism. I stand out for my leadership and teamwork skills, as well as my ability to act as a key liaison between the crew and officers. My commitment to continuous improvement and ongoing training allows me to face new challenges with a positive and proactive attitude.

SECOND DECK OFFICER at VT SHIPPING INT, MT KOLLUM (2018-04 – 2022-07)

• SECOND MATE: Responsible for the navigation equipment and nautical publications on the navigation bridge. Assistance in berthing and unberthing maneuvers, as well as loading and unloading operations, including ballast operations. Routine maintenance of navigation equipment, route planning, nautical publications (relevant corrections to nautical charts and other publications), calculation of ETA (Estimated Time of Arrival) and Noon Report.
• SAFETY OFFICER: Responsible for safety and fire equipment, and is required to review them periodically (weekly and monthly checks of safety and fire equipment), strictly following SOLAS regulations. Drills and crew training on the correct use of safety equipment.
• GMDSS OFFICER: Performs monthly tests on all GMDSS equipment, including: VHF, Portable VHF, MF/HF, Inmarsat C, Navtex, SART (Radar Transponder), EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon).

SECOND DECK OFFICER at MARITIME MANAGEMENT, EV NAUTILUS (2022-07 – 2022-12)

working in challenging environments, navigating in international waters and remote areas, coordinating expedition logistics and ensuring the proper collection of oceanographic data. I have also overseen the safety of the vessel and crew during scientific operations, performing precise maneuvers to position research equipment and maintain safe operating conditions. My ability to interpret maps, nautical charts, and meteorological conditions analysis has allowed me to make informed decisions about routes and navigation conditions, adapting to unforeseen changes in weather or sea conditions.

I have collaborated closely with scientific teams, engineers, and other deck officers to ensure the integration of research operations with navigation, optimizing time and resources.

CHIEF MATE / SECOND DECK OFFICER at VT SHIPPING INT, MT KOLLUM (2023-02 – 2025-03)

• SECOND MATE: Responsible for the navigation equipment and nautical publications on the navigation bridge. Assistance in berthing and unberthing maneuvers, as well as loading and unloading operations, including ballast operations. Routine maintenance of navigation equipment, route planning, nautical publications (relevant corrections to nautical charts and other publications), calculation of ETA (Estimated Time of Arrival) and Noon Report.
• SAFETY OFFICER: Responsible for safety and fire equipment and is required to review them periodically (weekly and monthly checks of safety and fire equipment), strictly following SOLAS regulations. Drills and crew training on the correct use of safety equipment.
• GMDSS OFFICER: Performs monthly tests on all GMDSS equipment, including VHF, Portable VHF, MF/HF, Inmarsat C, Navtex, SART (Radar Transponder), EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon).
• CHIEF MATE: Supervised and executed cargo loading, discharging, and tank cleaning operations in full compliance with MARPOL, ISGOTT, and company standards.
• Managed deck department operations, including maintenance of cargo systems, deck machinery, and safety equipment.
• Ensured vessel stability and structural integrity through accurate ballast and cargo planning.
• Assisted the Master with navigation and voyage planning; performed bridge watchkeeping duties as Officer of the Watch (OOW).
• Maintained all cargo and safety documentation, including tank inspection records, cargo logs, and compliance reports.
• Conducted regular safety drills and inspections; led onboard emergency response teams (firefighting, oil spill, rescue).
• Ensured full compliance with international maritime regulations (SOLAS, MARPOL, STCW) and company SMS.

CHIEF MATE / SECOND DECK OFFICER at VT SHIPPING INT, MT VALDESA (2025-03 – Present)

• CHIEF MATE: Supervised and executed cargo loading, discharging, and tank cleaning operations in full compliance with MARPOL, ISGOTT, and company standards.
• Managed deck department operations, including maintenance of cargo systems, deck machinery, and safety equipment.
• Ensured vessel stability and structural integrity through accurate ballast and cargo planning.
• Assisted the Master with navigation and voyage planning; performed bridge watchkeeping duties as Officer of the Watch (OOW).
• Maintained all cargo and safety documentation, including tank inspection records, cargo logs, and compliance reports.
• Conducted regular safety drills and inspections; led onboard emergency response teams (firefighting, oil spill, rescue).
• Ensured full compliance with international maritime regulations (SOLAS, MARPOL, STCW) and company SMS.
• SECOND MATE: Responsible for the navigation equipment and nautical publications on the navigation bridge. Assistance in berthing and unberthing maneuvers, as well as loading and unloading operations, including ballast operations. Routine maintenance of navigation equipment, route planning, nautical publications (relevant corrections to nautical charts and other publications), calculation of ETA (Estimated Time of Arrival) and Noon Report.
• SAFETY OFFICER: Responsible for safety and fire equipment and is required to review them periodically (weekly and monthly checks of safety and fire equipment), strictly following SOLAS regulations. Drills and crew training on the correct use of safety equipment.
• GMDSS OFFICER: Performs monthly tests on all GMDSS equipment, including VHF, Portable VHF, MF/HF, Inmarsat C, Navtex, SART (Radar Transponder), EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon).

Nautical Engineering in maritime transportation and administration – Columbus University, Panama (2012-04 – 2016-12)