Chief Engineer
Recommended Time In Role
Ideally, a Chief Engineer (less than 500 GT and 3000 kW) should stay in their role for one to two years (with a minimum of six months of sea time). This is the time and experience need if wishing to progress further.
A Chief Engineer (less than 3000 GT and 9000 kW) should remain in their role for as long as they find the work rewarding.
There is also the opportunity to progress to Build/Major Refit Engineer.
A Chief Engineer (less than 3000 GT and 9000 kW) should remain in their role for as long as they find the work rewarding.
There is also the opportunity to progress to Build/Major Refit Engineer.
Mandatory Qualifications
- To be eligible to be a Chief Engineer, all candidates must hold current STCW Basic Safety Training A-VI/I.
- To work on a vessel of less than 500 GT and 3,000 kW, Chief Engineers must hold the Chief Engineer (SV) less than 500 GT and 3,000 kW CoC (similar to the old Y3).
- To work on a vessel of less than 3000 GT and less than 9,000 kW, Chief Engineers must hold Chief Engineer (SV) less than 3,000 GT and 9,000 kW CoC (Formerly known as Y2/Y1).
Recommended Qualifications
Some yachts may require engine manufacturer-specific certification. Audio Visual (AV) and IT skills are a beneficial addition, whether through qualifications such as a degree or short courses.
Recommended Experience
Ideally, a Chief Engineer should previously have had three to five years of engineering experience. Someone who has worked at sea for three to five years as a EOOW (2nd Engineer) would have adequate experience to take on the position of Chief Engineer, vessel size dependent.
Character Attributes
- Good communication skills
- Good listener
- Supportive of others
- Resilient
- Works well under pressure
- Self-motivated
- Motivating
- Proactive
- Self-aware
- Well presented
- Budgeting and accounting skills
- Strong Mentor
- Strong negotiator
- Tolerant
- Ability to delegate
- Effective time management skills
- Problem solver
- Research skills