Viking (NYSE: VIK) is a global leader in experiential travel with a fleet of more than 100 ships, exploring 21 rivers, five oceans and all seven continents. Designed for curious travelers with interests in science, history, culture and cuisine, Chairman and CEO Torstein Hagen often says Viking offers experiences For The Thinking Person™. Viking has more than 450 awards to its name, including being rated #1 for Rivers and #1 for Oceans five years in a row by Condé Nast Traveler in the 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards. Viking is also rated a “World’s Best” by Travel + Leisure—no other travel company has simultaneously received such honors by both publications.
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 Austria 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 ship up to company standards, regularly visiting and asses its current state, 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 Vienna, Austria, and involves intensive traveling across Europe.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Maintenance operations
1. Oversee the maintenance of our river cruise ships.
2. Ensure adherence to SOPs and guidelines outlined in Technical Manuals for ship maintenance.
3. Collaborate with engineering teams onboard to address defects, irregularities, and damages.
4. Conduct regular inspections to assess the condition of ship systems, machinery, and equipment.
5. Coordinate repairs and restoration following accidents, incidents, or planned maintenance.
6. Work closely with ship crews and external contractors to restore the ships to their intended state.
7. Prioritize urgent repairs to minimize downtime and ensure operational readiness.
Leadership & stakeholder management
8. Monitor the effectiveness of maintenance procedures and adjust as needed.
9. Collaborate with relevant departments to maintain high-quality standards.
10. Provide technical guidance to shipboard staff and crew members.
11. Reports directly to the Senior Manager Maintenance responsible for their specific region.
KEY QUALIFICATIONS
Functional skills
12. A minimum of 2 years of experience in marine or technical operations
13. Excellent problem-solving skills with the ability to make data-driven decisions.
14. Familiarity with maritime technologies and sustainable practices.
15. Demonstrated ability to conduct thorough inspections and oversee repairs and maintenance.
Education and professional experience
16. A degree in Mechanical Engineering, Marine Engineering, or a related field is preferred.
17. Proven experience on board a river cruise ship as an Engineer is an asset.
18. Professional certifications in maritime safety and maintenance management are a plus.
19. Experience with modern maintenance management systems.
Leadership Skills
20. Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively.
21. Strong focus on continuous improvement and innovation in maintenance practices.
22. Ability to work under pressure and adapt to changing priorities and environments.
Other requirements
23. Language skills: English and German (oral and written) on a business level.
24. Professional appearance and demeanor
25. Willingness and ability to travel exensively within the operational areas, including potential international travel and regular 24/7 Hotline Duty
26. Proficient in using MS Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams) and maintenance management software.
HOW TO APPLY
27. We look forward to receiving your complete application documents, stating your salary expectations and your earliest possible starting date. Start with us and take on challenging tasks in a skilled and highly motivated team. Convince us with your commitment and personality and send your application – preferably by e-mail to:
Viking Technical GmbH, Personalabteilung, Industriepark 17, 56291 Wiebelsheim
E-Mail: hr.wbl@viking.com