Ship's officers serve in positions of authority on seafaring vessels, co-ordinating crew and directing the ship's operations. They liaise with the captain to determine the ship's movements, supervise the work undertaken by crew members, record the details of the ship's course, position and weather conditions in the log book, and handle any emergencies that arise onboard. Officers on passenger ships are responsible for the safety of passengers. On cargo ships they are responsible for ensuring the safety of cargo and the ship's structure, as well as for checking the navigation equipment. Ship's officers are required on ships that move in and out the major ports and some minor ports that operate along the coasts of Australia.


ANZSCO ID & Description: 231214: Navigates and controls the safe operation of a ship and supervises and coordinates the activities of deck crew. Registration or licensing is required.

Alternative names: Deck Officer

Specialisations: Ferry Master, First Mate, Navigating Officer (Ship's), Seaman Officer (Navy), Ship's Pilot

 

Knowledge, skills and attributes

A ship's officer needs:

• an interest in nautical transport

• confidence and composure

• the ability to work as part of a team

• leadership and motivation skills

• physical fitness and strength

• the ability to spend time at sea

Cargo ship
(Source: Business Insider)

Duties and Tasks

• navigates a ship by supervising the ship's course and speed according to pre-determined passage plans and safety procedures

• liaise between the captain and the crew of the ship

• keep watch from the bridge in watches (shifts) and monitor weather reports

• determine the position of other vessels and obstructions by using navigational aids

• navigate the ship, using radar, satellite and computer systems

• supervise the work done by the crew

• provide medical and/or first aid treatment for the crew

• ensure the readiness and condition of safety equipment and lifeboats

• make sure safety regulations are observed.

 

Working conditions

Ship's officers work on passenger liners and ferries, cargo and freight ships, other ships such as barges, fishing vessels and rescue boats, and special-purpose ships, such as those used for research purposes or as ice-breakers. They are required to work in all weather conditions, which may include rough seas. Whilst their ship is anchored or in port they usually work regular hours, although this may involve early mornings, but when they are at sea they usually work in shifts, which can include working nights, and on weekends and public holidays.

 

Tools and technologies

Ship's officers often work in the cabins and control stations of ships, and are required to understand and use a variety of navigation and steering controls. They are also in charge of radio, morse lighting, code flags and pyrotechnic equipment, as well as firefighting, life saving, medical and signalling equipment, and must ensure that this equipment is in working order. Officers on cargo ships may also be required to use cargo storage and freight handling equipment such as pallet jacks, cargo scales, lifting equipment and strapping tools.

Education and training/entrance requirements

To become a ship’s officer you usually need to complete a qualification in maritime operations. The Diploma of Maritime Operations (Watchkeeper Deck) is offered at TAFE Colleges and other registered training organisations throughout Australia.

To work as a ship’s officer in Australia, you may need to obtain a Certificate of Competency from the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA). ​Alternately, it may be possible to complete a cadetship with a shipping company or other employer, which includes on -the -job training and study over four years at sea. Cadetships are usually available to those who have completed year 12.

 

 

 

 

Marine engineers are responsible for installing, operating, maintaining and repairing engines, machinery and other mechanical and electronic equipment aboard ships and offshore structures. They operate a ship's engine to control the speed of the vessel, according to orders from the ship's captain. Marine engineers also monitor and test the performance of the electrical and mechanical equipment of a vessel, including the heating, ventilation, refrigeration, water and sewerage systems, and repair faults where necessary. When they are ashore they may be responsible for ordering spare parts, fuel and lubricating oil.

ANZSCO ID: 231212

Alternative names: Engineer Officer, Marine Engineer, Naval or Marine Engineer, Ship's Engineer,

Specialisations: Mechanical Engineering Officer (Navy), Weapons Electrical Engineering Officer (Navy)

 

Did You Know? Royal Australian Navy Lieutenant Frank Peng, Deputy Marine Engineering Officer HMAS Warramunga (Source: Navy Daily 20 January 2018) Marine Engineering Officer proud to deploy Lieutenant Frank Peng is the Deputy Marine Engineering Officer on board HMAS Warramunga on his first nine month operational deployment to the Middle East. After migrating from China with his parents when he was 18 years old, Lieutenant Peng lived in Fitzroy and began his engineering studies at Monash University before deciding on a career in the Navy. “The adjustment from China to Australia was difficult at first but the country of Australia is beautiful and so are the people who live here. “I quickly learnt that I could be anything I desired if I was willing to work for it. “Mechanical Engineering has always been a passion of mine, and the goal of working on one of Australia’s warships was something I began to strive for,” he said.

 

 

Knowledge, skills and attributes

A marine engineer needs:

• to be physically fit

• to enjoy technical and engineering activities

• good problem solving skills

• adaptability

• the ability to work as part of a team

• good hand-eye coordination

Marine Engineer Officer
(Source: Defence Careers)

 

Duties and Tasks

• Plans, controls and co-ordinates the operational and maintenance requirements of a ship's propulsion and domestic plant and equipment.

• Operates plant and equipment and performs routine maintenance on ship's systems including mechanical, electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, steam generating, and fire prevention and control systems.

• Install, operate, maintain and repair engines on ships and offshore structures

• Operate and maintain other mechanical and electronic equipment on ships and vessels

• Control the speed of a vessel, according to orders from the ship's captain

• Monitor and test heating, ventilation, refrigeration, water and sewerage systems on board vessels

• Repair faults in onboard electrical and mechanical systems

• Order and keep stock of spare parts, fuels and oils.

Working conditions

Marine engineers work on passenger liners and ferries, cargo and freight ships, barges, fishing vessels and research vessels. Marine engineers often spend long periods at sea, where they work shifts which include working nights, weekends and public holidays. When they return to land, they generally spend a several weeks on shore leave. While at sea they work in all weather conditions, which can include stormy weather and rough seas. A ship's engine room is generally hot, noisy and dirty. As a marine engineer you would be expected to work a set number of hours per week, but these would usually be long hours while at sea, followed by extended periods of time on offshore leave. Marine engineers are also often required to work at heights and in confined spaces.

Tools and technologies

Marine engineers use a wide range of hand and power tools, including spanners, sledgehammers, angle grinders, lathes, drills and hydraulic bolt-tensioning equipment. They may also operate cranes and other lifting equipment to move heavy machinery around the ship. UHF radios are frequently used to communicate with other crew members around the vessel. Marine Engineers must also wear safety equipment including earmuffs, overalls, safety glasses, steel-capped boots and high visibility clothing. In emergencies they may also need to use fire extinguishers and other safety equipment.


Education and training/entrance requirements

To become a ship’s engineer you need to complete an Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) approved Diploma or Advanced Diploma in Maritime Operations, along with the completion of at least 36 weeks of seagoing experience on an appropriately sized vessel.  

 

Employment Opportunities
   

Employment opportunities for marine engineers are expected to grow at an average rate. The boom in the cruising industry has increased the need for marine engineers to work on these ships. As a greater volume of international cargo comes in and out of Australian ports, more marine engineers will also be needed to help run these vessels. Potential growth may be tempered by the appointment of offshore based, rather than local, staff on internationally registered vessels. This situation is dependent on the effects of COVID on cruising and shipping in general.

 

 

 

 

Marine engineering technicians maintain, repair and overhaul ships and other vessels. They may also help to maintain offshore oil drilling platforms and associated equipment.

 

ANZSCO ID: 231213
  

Alternative names: Marine Technician (Navy),
  
Knowledge, skills and attributes

To become a marine engineering technician, you would need:

• to enjoy practical activities

• problem-solving ability

• a thorough understanding of marine engineering

• IT skills

• the ability to read technical drawings

• communication skills

• an understanding of safety procedures and regulations

• good teamwork skills.

(Source: Lake Macquarie Marine Centre)

Duties and Tasks

As a marine engineering technician you would:

• carry out tests to identify faults

• repair electronic, hydraulic and mechanical equipment

• overhaul older vessels and replace ageing or superseded equipment

• maintain and update navigation and communications systems on vessels

• operate underwater craft to inspect undersea pipelines or equipment

• inspect and maintain offshore drilling platforms

• providing engineering support on board a dive support vessel

• maintain weapons systems, radar and sonar on Navy vessels and warships.

Working conditions

As a marine engineering technician you would be expected to work a set number of hours per week. At sea, these would usually be long hours, followed by extended periods of time on offshore leave.

Marine engineering technicians work in shipyards on passenger liners and ferries, cargo and freight ships, research vessels and offshore platforms. Marine engineering technicians may spend long periods of time at sea, or away from home. Conditions on board ships and offshore platforms can be rough and you would work in all types of weather.

Education and training/entrance requirements

To become a marine engineering technician you would usually need to complete an apprenticeship in an Australian Maritime Safety Authority approved trade, such as fitter and turner/machinist, diesel fitter or electrical fitter. This would be followed by training to earn a certificate of competency as an engineer watchkeeper. Generally, employers require a junior secondary school certificate or equivalent.

Employment Opportunities

Employment opportunities for marine engineering technicians are expected to grow at an average rate. The boom in the cruising industry [before COVID] has increased the need for marine engineering technicians to maintain engines and equipment on these ships. As a greater volume of international cargo comes in and out of Australian ports, more marine engineering technicians will also be needed to help run these vessels. Opportunities may also exist to work on offshore drilling platforms.

 

Did You Know? The Marine Technician specialises in engineering systems operation and maintenance. As a Marine Technician, you’ll be required to operate, monitor and maintain equipment in a wide and diverse range of platforms—both on ship and on shore. The main aspects of this role include operating equipment and monitoring performance to identify whether there is any potential for operational fault. It’s then up to you to correct any faults if required. You’ll also be conducting all kinds of maintenance; like routine planned maintenance (eg: hourly, weekly, monthly, annual etc), attend to breakdown maintenance, and assist contractors in higher level maintenance. There’s a wide range of different machinery and associated systems throughout the ship that you’ll be responsible for the operation and maintenance of: The ships' main propulsion machinery (gas turbine / diesel / diesel electric plants) Associated propulsion control and monitoring systems Electrical power generation and distribution including High Voltage (1000VAC, 1500VDC), Low Voltage (24-1000VAC, 120-1500VDC), and Extra Low Voltage (24VAC, 120VDC) Auxiliary systems including Air Conditioning, Ventilation, Refrigeration and Davits Liquid and cargo handling systems Hull structures and fittings Ship's boats Basic fault finding and diagnostics on systems including control circuits In-situ repair and component change out of pumps, motors and ancillary system equipment Manufacture/ supply/ install components to systems as part of a Fleet Support Unit work team Maintenance activities regularly require the use of a wide range of skills including mechanical, electrical, fabrication, fluid power and electronics. That’s why on completion of the initial shore and sea training, you may be given the opportunity to complete trade training to undertake your duties of a maintainer. During Initial Employment Training, you’ll get to specialise in one of the following Trade disciplines: Diesel, Electrical or Hull maintenance and Fabrication. If you have relevant full or partial qualifications, competency or experience, you may be eligible for recognised prior learning. (Source: Defence Jobs)

 

 

 

 

Deckhands carry out a range of basic duties essential to the running and maintenance of a boat or ship. Deckhands undertake a wide range of fishery and maritime work on land and at sea, including communications, supply, seamanship, hospitality and stores. The exact duties of a deckhand can vary depending on the type of vessel they work on. On fishing vessels, they may also use equipment such as nets, lines and traps to catch fish, crustaceans and molluscs.Those working on sailing ships may have to climb tall masts and work in the ship's rigging, while those working on a charter boat or ferry may spend more time taking care of passengers, sometimes serving drinks and food. Regardless of the vessel, all deckhands assist in keeping the vessel clean and seaworthy, keeping lookout, steering and adjusting the course as directed and dealing with any emergencies that occur.


ANZSCO ID & Description: 899211: Performs maintenance and lookout tasks aboard a ship.

Alternative names: Seafarer

Specialisations: Barge Hand, Ferry Hand, Tug Hand

 

Knowledge, skills and attributes

A deckhand needs:

• an awareness of maritime safety issues

• to be able to work as part of a team

• to be physically fit (a medical examination may be required)

• have normal colour vision

• have a good sense of balance

• good hand-eye coordination

• a neat and tidy appearance if working with members of the public.

• be able to work as part of a team.

(Source: The Crew Network)

 

 

Duties and Tasks

• Handles ropes and wires, and operates mooring equipment when berthing and unberthing - handle lines to moor vessels to wharfs, to tie up vessels to other vessels, or to rig towing lines

• Stands lookout watches at sea and adjusts the ship's course as directed - load, unload and stow supplies and equipment

• Assists with cargo operations using on-board equipment and stows and secures cargo.

• Patrols ships to ensure safety of the vessel, cargo and passengers.

• Performs routine maintenance and checks on deck equipment, cargo gear, rigging, and lifesaving and fire fighting appliances.

• Operate dinghies and dories

• Operate winches and other deck equipment

• Lower and man lifeboats when emergencies occur

• Relay information to crew, other ships and harbour authorities using radio and satellite equipment

• Clean and maintain decks, deck equipment and machinery

• Attach runners, weights, buoys, anchors, poles, stakes, wood or metal beams to nets, traps or pots on fishing vessels

• Sort, clean, process, preserve and package catches on fishing vessels.

 

Working conditions

Many deckhands only spend short periods of time at sea, however, with experience and greater training they may spend weeks or months at a time away from land. They work as part of a team and must follow safe work practices to minimise the risk of danger to themselves, other crew members and passengers. They often work outdoors, in a range of weather conditions, though even when working indoors they may be exposed to rough weather conditions, which can be unpleasant. Hours of work can vary greatly depending on the type of vessel and the season, with longer shifts generally required in summer months. Some deckhands may work shifts, which can include nights and weekends. You may work a number of weeks on, followed by a shorter number of weeks off (shore leave).

Tools and technologies

Deckhands use ropes and knots for a variety of purposes, including berthing vessels and tying down cargo. They may also use navigational instruments and radio equipment, usually under the supervision of a senior crew member. Safety equipment is very important and can include fire-extinguishers, life jackets and inflatable life rafts. They may also use standard cleaning equipment and hand tools to carry out general maintenance duties.

 

Education and training/entrance requirements

To work as a deck hand you must obtain a Certificate of Competency from the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA). The relevant qualification,Certificate I in Maritime Operations (General Purpose Hand Near Coastal), must be completed through an AMSA approved registered training organisation.

You can also become a Deckhand through a traineeship in aquaculture, fishing operations or maritime operations.

 

Employment Opportunities

Employment of deckhands is projected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations. Job growth is likely to be concentrated in areas such as commodities transportation - such as iron ore, grain, and petroleum – supply to offshore oil platforms, and in tourism related areas such as cruise and expedition ships.

 

 

Related Jobs or Working with these Jobs

 

Coxswain

Harbour Master

Navy Officer

Shipwright

 

 

Material sourced from
Jobs & Skills WA [Ships Master; Ship's Officer; Ship's Engineer; Deck Hand];
CareerHQ [Deck Hand; Marine or Naval Engineer; Ship Officer; Marine Engineering Technician; ]
   Your Career [Ships Master; Ship's Officer; Marine Engineer; Deck Hand;];