FACULTY OF NAUTICAL & STEM - INTERNATIONAL PARTNERSHIPS 9
Roles & Duties on
Board a Ship
There are a number of departments on every ship with the most important being Navigation (Deck) and Engineering. Both
departments have a certain order of hierarchy with each crew member having a specifi c rank with assigned duties. Hence,
it is important to make a decision on which department you prefer before
you begin your career.
Engineering Department
You will be responsible for the safe running of the ships engine, cooling systems, control systems
and all mechanical systems on board.
Chief Engineer
Second Engineer
Third Engineer
Cadet/Engine Ratings
Fourth Engineer
Electrical Training Offi cer (ETO)
The Chief Engineer of a ship is the head of the Engineering
department of the ship responsible for safety of crew working
in the engine room ensuring that the engine room machinery
operates safely during voyages.
The role of the Second Engineer is to assist the Chief
Engineer in the safe and effi cient management of the Engine
Department, which involves looking after the entire operation of
the engine room and other technical aspects of the ship.
ThThe Third Engineer will perform engine watch keeping duties
as well as monitoring and maintaining equipment as directed
by the Second Engineer. Normally responsible for boilers, fuel,
auxiliary engines, condensate and feed systems.
A Cadet on board a merchant vessel receives structured training and experience on board and learns how to become an engine
or electrical offi cer. Apart from the offi cers, the engineering department crew consists of ratings, such as a Motorman, Fitter,
Electrician, Pumpman and Oiler/wiper.
The Fourth Engineer is the most junior engineering offi cer,
who duties are assigned by the Second Engineer, and
typically is responsible for: engine watch, air compressors,
purifi ers and other auxiliary machinery.
The Electrician on board a merchant vessel is the crew
member responsible for the electrical equipment and
systems, wiring and high voltage panels. The ETO looks
after the advanced electronic and electrical equipment on
board the ship. They are responsible for the maintenance
and monitoring of all electrical equipment on board (i.e.
engine rooms, communication devices, navigation aids
such as echo sounders, weather fax, radar systems, etc.).
An electrical training offi cer is also responsible for assisting
the chief offi cer in the organisation of any work specifi c to
the electrical fi eld and also coordinate work with on shore
technicians.