Who does what on-board?

It takes lots of different skills and levels of experience to keep a ship doing the job it was built for. Here we take a look at the different roles on-board a ship. There are three main roles you can train for to become an Officer in the Merchant Navy. Why don't you read the descriptions to help you choose which position would be best for you.

Deck Officer

Berthing a yacht takes skill. Berthing a Very Large Crude Carrier (VLCC) takes expertise. This expertise can be acquired by you through a Cadetship.

As a Deck Officer you will be responsible for the safe operation of your ship and getting it from port to port safely. You will direct other crew members in their day–to–day tasks and make sure life on-board follows the plans of your shipping company and your Captain. Indeed, there's no reason why you can't be a Captain yourself one day as your career progresses. You'll be trained in specialist areas like team management and trouble–shooting. You'll be equipped with all the skills you'll need to make sure that ship, cargo and crew get to where they're meant to be safely and on time.

Engineering Officer

If you have an interest in all things mechanical then a career as a Marine Engineer may be just what you are looking for.

As an Engineering Officer it will be your job to keep your ship’s engines and equipment operating well and doing the jobs they’re meant to do. Everything on-board has a function and you’ll be responsible for making sure it’s fit for purpose - from the ship’s propeller to the screw that holds the coat-hook on the captain’s door. You’ll be directing crew in maintenance operations and you’ll be finding engineering solutions to everyday situations as they occur.

Electro-Technical Officer (ETO)

You may enjoy the prospect of being an engineer but have a bias towards electrical and electronic equipment.

If you’re interested in engineering and you have a knack with electronic equipment this could be just the job for you. Today’s ships depend on their electrical systems – for satellite navigation and radio communication and thousands of other functions. Someone has to be on-board to keep everything ticking over as it should. And during your training you’ll be taught all the mechanical and electrical skills you’ll need to be that person.

For more information on each role within the Merchant Navy visit How do I apply? to contact one of the Training Companies and find out how you can start your career in the Merchant Navy.