Principal Engineering Roles
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Principal Engineering Roles
The principal engineering roles within a ship’s Engineering department can be summarised as follows:
Chief Engineer
The Chief Engineer is head of the ship’s Engineering department. They are responsible for the safety of crew working in the engine room and ensuring that the engine room machinery is fully operational ahead of each voyage. In addition, they hold responsibility for all planned maintenance activities being undertaken and ensuring that shore-based maintenance, either alongside a berth or in a refit/drydock, are effectively co-ordinated with the company’s head office and third party contractors.
Second Engineer
The Second Engineer assists the Chief Engineer in the safe and efficient management of the Engineering Department. As well as undertaking engine room watchkeeping duties, this involves looking after the engineering crew, engine room operation and other technical aspects of the ship. The Second Engineer may also be responsible for the effective training of Engineer Cadets, junior engineering officers and crew.
Third Engineer
The Third Engineer will perform engine room watchkeeping duties, as well as monitoring and maintaining engineering equipment as directed by the Second Engineer. They often have responsibility for auxiliary engines and generators, condensate and feed systems.
Fourth Engineer
The Fourth Engineer is the most junior Engineering officer, who has duties assigned by the Third or Second Engineer. As well as undertaking engine room watchkeeping duties, they will typically have responsibility for aspects of general equipment maintenance (e.g. air compressors, purifiers and other auxiliary machinery).
Marine Engineer Cadet
A Marine Engineer Cadet receives onboard training and experience in line with their approved training programme and MNTB Training Record Book, learns how to become an operational Marine Engineer Officer, and normally sails as a Junior or Fourth Engineer once qualified.
Engine Ratings
Apart from the officers, the Engineering crew consists of ratings, such as a Motorman, Fitter, Electrician, Pumpman and Oiler/Wiper. These crew members assist with maintenance and repair of engineering equipment and plant.
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