What are you interested in?
The Career Development pages relate to the technical professional seafaring roles on board.
For further Career Development information on Hotel and Catering, Hospitality & Support Services and Opportunities Ashore please go to Roles.
Chief Engineer
- In charge of the engineering department and responsible to the Master for its efficient operation.
- Has overall control and decision making powers for the engineering department.
- Is responsible for ensuring that all planned mechanical and electrical maintenance takes place.
- Co-ordinates operations with shore-side engineer.
What qualities & skills will you need?
You'll need to be practical, resourceful and have a real interest in mechanical and electrical systems, with good mathematical ability. Like deck officers, you'll be decisive, calm and able to inspire confidence in others. Good written and verbal communication skills are required. Beyond this you'll need to be prepared to learn about new technology and adapt your skills to its use.
For each of the ranks mentioned above you will have to hold a Certificate of Competency which is issued by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency. You will receive the first of these certificates (the Officer Of the Watch certificate, also known as the OOW certificate) when you complete your Merchant Navy Training Board approved training course which is delivered through one of the maritime institutions. A list of maritime institutions is available. Further certificates will be gained as you increase your experience at sea and pass the required examinations. You will need to have the Certificate for the next rank before you can be promoted into it - so it's important to get them as soon as you can!