The Chief Engineer is responsible to the Master and holds the senior-most authority in the engine department — considered equal in rank to the Master.
Daily duties
- Approving the maintenance plan for the main engine, generators and all mechanical/electrical systems.
- Managing fuel/lube oil consumption and the engine department's budget.
- Deciding on major repairs and breakdowns, coordinating with the company when needed.
- Reviewing the daily work distribution with the Second Engineer.
- Overseeing engine room preparations before/after port calls.
A typical day
Usually doesn't stand watch; time goes into administrative planning, reporting and overseeing critical engine room work. Goes down to the floor at any hour in case of a breakdown.
How to reach this rank
Sufficient sea service as Second Engineer and the highest competency exam (Chief Engineer certificate of competency).
To see the full engine department hierarchy, check out "Shipboard Hierarchy 5: The Engine Department".
