Welcome to Meet Our Geoquip, a new regular post featuring our people insights from across Geoquip Marine. This regular feature is an opportunity for the many diverse voices working in both on offshore and onshore teams to share their story, provide insights into their role in the company and offer advice to those looking to begin or continue their career in geotechnical engineering.
Today’s post features Munir Mehsen, a Protected Species Observer (PSO) and PAM Operator working offshore on one of our integrated geotechnical survey vessels. We would like to thank Munir for sharing his story with us.
Can you tell us about your role at Geoquip Marine?
My role at Geoquip Marine is work as PAM Operator and Protected Species Observer. These two roles are very important during offshore industry activities, such as the development of windfarms and energy exploration surveys. The main objective is to mitigate the potential impact of these activities on the marine environment and mammals (such as sea turtles and other protected species).
I also work as a PAM Operator (which stands for Passive Acoustic Monitoring). PAM systems such as the ones we use on our integrated geotechnical survey vessels, are an effective tool for monitoring marine mammals, especially where visual surveys are not sufficient.
What inspired you to follow a career path into the geotechnical engineering industry?
As a marine biologist, I was inspired to seek a unique experience by pursuing new experiences in the geotechnical engineering industry. By working with Geoquip Marine in the environmental sector onboard our vessels, I can stay close to nature and the ocean.
What do you enjoy most about working offshore as a Protected Species Observer?
What I enjoy most about working offshore as a PSO is the fact I get to work so closely and maintain regular contact with species of animal that are very rare to see in normal conditions. Being able to capture pictures to help identify different species and make record of these encounters is really rewarding. And the most important thing: being able to help and protect these animals.
What are the key skills or attributes you need to be successful in an environmentally focused role?
The key skills or attributes in my role and any other role is, in my humble opinion, to be honest and focused on what you’re doing. Dedication to protecting marine species and providing important visual and acoustic data is vital to becoming a successful part of the environmental sector.
What advice would you give someone who is considering a career with Geoquip Marine?
My advice for someone who is considering a career with Geoquip Marine, and within the industry as a whole, is remain focused, show respect, show loyalty and be determined in every task you undertake.
Do you have any hobbies or passions outside of your work?
My hobbies and passions are my daughter (she’s everything to me), surfing, motorbikes and soccer.
Thank you for sharing your story with us, Munir!
If you would like to learn more about our offshore geotechnical site investigations, click here. You can also visit our Careers area and browse our latest vacancies and career opportunities.
