Chief Engineer

Job role and responsibility - you will use your extensive knowledge of health and safety and fishing vessel machinery to deal with engineering emergencies and to oversee and manage the maintenance and operation of the vessel's engines and machinery.

This includes - regular testing of steering equipment; operation of all onboard pumping equipment; monitoring instruments; diagnosing mechanical and electrical faults; monitoring the condition of engine equipment. You are also likely to be responsible for any other engineering personnel working on board the vessel.

Career opportunities -

if you wish you can move into related maritime industries such as the Merchant Navy, harbour tug boat work, ship and boat repair, fish processing, oil/gas exploration, support/stand-by vessels, cargo operations and ferries. These industries recognise the expertise you have gained whilst working in the fishing sector and may offer you additional opportunities to develop your career.

Entry requirements -

if you are working on a fishing vessel with an engine power of 750kw or more there is a statutory requirement for the Chief Engineer to hold the MCA Engineer Officer Certificate of Competency (Fishing Vessel) Class 1

To be eligible to sit for the Engineer Officer Certificate of Competency Class 1, you must whilst holding an Engineer Officer Certificate of Competency Class 2, have satisfactorily completed at least:
•    21 months qualifying sea service in an engineering capacity on a fishing vessel with an engine of 750kw or more
•    hold Basic Fire Fighting, First Aid at Sea, Sea Survival and Safety Awareness Certificates, Advanced Fire Fighting Certificate and Medical First Aid Certificate
Candidates who have achieved the appropriate VQ Level 4 are not required to sit the written component of the MCA examination but will still be required to undertake an oral examination.

S/NVQ Qualifications -
•    Marine Engineering Operations (Chief Engineer Fishing) Level 4