COLOGNE - Manager Maintenance

Viking was founded in 1997 and provides destination-focused voyages on oceans, rivers and lakes around the world. Designed for experienced travelers with interests in science, history, culture and cuisine, Chairman Torstein Hagen often says Viking offers experiences for The Thinking Person®.

Viking has more than 250 awards to its name, including being rated #1 for Rivers, #1 for Oceans and #1 for Expeditions by Condé Nast Traveler and voted at the top of its categories by Travel + Leisure. No other cruise line has ever received these same honors by both publications at the same time.

Viking offers a fast-growing and dynamic working environment and flexible working hours. Please note that we can only accept applicants who are eligible to work in Germany or are in possession of a valid work permit.

ROLE DESCRIPTION 

The Manager Maintenance plays a critical role in ensuring 24/7 technical support and consistent technical operation and safety standards across the Viking River Cruises fleet in the respective region. 

This role involves keeping the ships up to company standards, regularly visiting and asses their current state and ordering and supervising necessary repairs and restoration works.
This role requires advanced technical expertise and the ability to manage multiple complex tasks simultaneously by setting the right priorities. The role is based in Cologne, Germany, and involves intensive traveling across Europe. 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Maintenance operations
•    Oversee the maintenance of our river cruise ships.
•    Ensure adherence to SOPs and guidelines outlined in Technical Manuals for ship maintenance.
•    Collaborate with engineering teams onboard to address defects, irregularities, and damages.
•    Conduct regular inspections to assess the condition of ship systems, machinery, and equipment.
•    Coordinate repairs and restoration following accidents, incidents, or planned maintenance.
•    Work closely with ship crews and external contractors to restore the ships to their intended state.
•    Prioritize urgent repairs to minimize downtime and ensure operational readiness.

Leadership & stakeholder management
•    Monitor the effectiveness of maintenance procedures and adjust as needed.
•    Collaborate with relevant departments to maintain high-quality standards.
•    Provide technical guidance to shipboard staff and crew members.
•    Reports directly to the Senior Manager Maintenance.

KEY QUALIFICATIONS
Functional skills
•    A minimum of 2 years of experience in marine or technical operations
•    Excellent problem-solving skills with the ability to make data-driven decisions.
•    Familiarity with maritime technologies and sustainable practices.
•    Demonstrated ability to conduct thorough inspections and oversee repairs and maintenance.

Education and professional experience
•    A degree in Mechanical Engineering, Marine Engineering, or a related field is preferred.
•    Proven experience on board a river cruise ship as an Engineer is an asset.
•    Professional certifications in maritime safety and maintenance management are a plus.
•    Experience with modern maintenance management systems.

Leadership Skills
•    Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively.
•    Strong focus on continuous improvement and innovation in maintenance practices.
•    Ability to work under pressure and adapt to changing priorities and environments.

Other requirements
•    Language skills: English (oral and written) on a business level, German is a asset.
•    Professional appearance and demeanor
•    Willingness and ability to travel extensively within the operational areas, including potential international travel and regular 24/7 Hotline Duty. 
•    Proficient in using MS Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams) and maintenance management software.  

HOW TO APPLY
Please apply via our website www.vikingcareers.com, including your CV in English and a one-page cover letter to introduce yourself and your interest for the role. 
For more details about this position, contact Marta Pikusa under +41 61 638 60 11