Pipe-Layer vacancies

What is pipe-laying vessel?

​Pipelay vessel is a specialized offshore vessel designed to lay underwater pipelines used in the oil and gas industry to transport resources from offshore fields to land. These vessels are equipped with sophisticated equipment, including powerful cranes, welding machines and dynamic positioning systems, allowing pipes to be accurately laid on the seabed at depths of up to 4,000 meters. ​Accordingly, finding employment on such a complex vessel may not be easy and you may need to deal with certain nuances.

Methods for laying pipelines using pipe-laying vessel

There are several methods for laying pipelines using pipe-laying vessels:​

1. S-Lay. The pipe is welded on board the vessel and gradually sinks to the bottom, forming the shape of the Latin letter "S".​

2. J-Lay. The pipe descends almost vertically, forming a "J" shape.​

3. Reel-Lay. The pipeline, pre-assembled and wound on a drum, is unwound and laid on the bottom.​

The choice of method depends on the water depth, pipe diameter and environmental conditions. ​

Equipment of pipe-laying vessels

Pipelay vessels are equipped with a variety of equipment needed to lay pipelines efficiently and safely. Most often they contain:

1. Heavy-duty cranes. Designed for lifting and moving pipes and other heavy loads.​

2. Welding stations. They ensure welding of pipes directly on board the vessel before they are laid.​

3. Dynamic positioning (DP) systems. Allow the vessel to maintain a given position without the use of anchors, which is especially important when working at great depths.​

4. Stinger. A special design that supports the pipe as it descends to the bottom, preventing excessive bending and damage.​

One of the largest pipe-laying vessels is Pioneering Spirit, owned by the Swiss company Allseas. The ship is 382 meters long and 124 meters wide, making it the largest in the world. It is capable of mounting and dismantling offshore drilling platforms, as well as laying subsea pipelines. ​Also in the CIS countries there are also some pipe-laying ships, but their parameters are slightly smaller than those of the Pioneering Spirit.

Occupations on a pipe-laying vessel

This vessel employs specialists from various fields:

1. Captain and navigating crew. They are responsible for navigation and control of the ship.​

2. Engineers and technicians. Maintains and repairs mechanical and electrical equipment.​

3. Welders and assemblers. They are engaged in welding and assembly of pipelines.​

4. Crane and lift operators. They control lifting mechanisms.​

5. Divers. Carry out underwater inspection and installation work.​

6. Service staff. Cooks, cleaners and other specialists who ensure the comfort of the crew.​

Working conditions

Conditions work on pipe-laying vessels can be complex and when applying for a job it is important to know about them and understand all the possible difficulties:​

1. Long watches. Shifts can last from several weeks to several months.​

2. Heavy physical activity. Especially for installers and welders.​

3. Weather conditions. The work is carried out in the open sea, which involves exposure to various weather conditions.​

However, shipowners usually provide:

• competitive wages;

• medical care;

• life and health insurance;

• comfortable living conditions on board;

• opportunities for professional growth and training.

Our crewing company Marine MAN specializes in selecting crews for various types of vessels, including pipelayers. We offer long-term cooperation for officers and enlisted personnel, providing career prospects, competitive salaries and social guarantees.