When a ballast water management system needs urgent support, location is rarely convenient. The vessel may be in Asia this week and Europe the next. For Lars Dalgård, BWMS Service Engineer at TeamTec, this is simply part of the job.
His workplace is not an office or a fixed workshop. It is wherever vessels operate.
Working exclusively with Ballast Water Management Systems (BWMS), Lars is part of a dedicated team of specialists providing global BWMS service, troubleshooting and system support to shipowners and crews worldwide.
A global service role with full responsibility
The role of a BWMS service engineer at TeamTec covers the entire service process.
From the first customer call to the final service report, Lars is responsible for:
Customer dialogue and technical clarification
Assessment of system status and service needs
Spare parts planning and logistics
Travel coordination and onboard execution
Testing, commissioning and crew training
Assignments include annual BWMS service, component replacement, PLC software updates, troubleshooting and operational verification.
Because vessels often operate on tight port schedules, most work must be completed within limited time windows. Planning and efficiency are critical.
Real-world maritime conditions
Unlike shore-based engineering roles, BWMS service is carried out onboard vessels in active operation. Every assignment brings a new crew, new environment and different operating standards.
“No two vessels are the same,” Lars explains. “Maintenance routines, system condition and onboard practices vary significantly. You have to adapt quickly.”
Service engineers must be able to work professionally regardless of vessel condition – from highly structured engine rooms to more demanding operating environments.
Time-critical BWMS support
Time pressure is a defining part of a BWMS service. In major ports, engineers may have only a few hours onboard to diagnose and resolve issues. Travel distances are often long, and service windows short.
If a ballast water management system cannot be fully serviced during the port stay, support continues remotely. Service engineers guide crews step by step after departure to ensure continued safe and compliant ballast water treatment.
Why experience matters in BWMS troubleshooting
Ballast water management systems operate in harsh marine environments. Saltwater, humidity, vibration and temperature fluctuations continuously affect equipment performance.
Hands-on experience with BWMS equipment is critical when diagnosing faults. Understanding system behaviour under real operating conditions allows service engineers to identify root causes efficiently and implement reliable solutions.
Close collaboration with vessel crews
Effective BWMS service is built on cooperation. Lars works closely with ship crews during inspections, testing and part replacement. Crew involvement is prioritized to ensure long-term operational confidence.
“Training is just as important as fixing the issue,” he says. “The crew needs to understand how the system works before we leave.”
Crew members participate in procedures, ask questions and document key steps. After departure, ongoing support remains available through direct contact and TeamTec’s service network.
Representing TeamTec worldwide
Service engineers are often the only TeamTec representatives onboard. Their work directly impacts vessel compliance, operational efficiency and environmental performance.
For Lars, the role has built both professional confidence and pride.
“Being able to perform this job anywhere in the world is a strength. Representing TeamTec globally is something I value.”
Through global BWMS service and technical support, engineers like Lars ensure that ballast water systems operate safely, efficiently and in accordance with international environmental regulations.
