STCW Requirements for Chief Engineer

A Chief Engineer is in charge of the engine department in a merchant ship and holds complete responsibility for the operations of the engine room and maintenance of all types of machinery onboard the vessel.

OThe Chief Engineer reports to the master / captain and works closely with the master and ensures the physical aspect of the vessel is completely under control. In nutshell chief engineer gives orders for operation and maintenance of ship’s machinery system.

Other typical duties include - required to have experience in both mechanical and electrical engineering, work and able to communicate efficiently with a small team to ensure that all maintenance is completed efficiently, maintain inventory of spare parts, fuel and oil, look after the safety of maritime professionals working in the engine room, and man management skills including working under pressure. The duties of the chief engineer are clearly defined under STCW section A- III/2 and section A-III/3.

A chief engineeris educated to degree level and hold any other qualifications associated with Maritime engineering and must have a Class 1 Certificate of Competency among other qualifications defined by different maritime administrations within STCW Convention. Further information can be found from the following sections.

STCW Requirements to Obtain a COC as a Chief Engineer

Chief Engineer officers on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of 3,000 kW propulsion power or more must:

Previous Certificate & Seagoing Service: meet the requirements for certification as an officer in charge of an engineering watch and have not less than 36 months approved seagoing service, of which not less than 12 months shall have been served as an engineer officer in a position of responsibility while qualified to serve as second engineer officer. Education & Training: have completed approved education and training and meet the standard of competence specified in section A-III/2 of the STCW Code.

Chief Engineer officers on ships powered by main propulsion machinery of 750 kW - 3,000 kW propulsion power must:

Additional Requirements under STCW 2010: See below.

Previous Certificate & Seagoing Service: meet the requirements for certification as an officer in charge of an engineering watch and have not less than 24 months approved seagoing service, of which not less than 12 months shall have been served while qualified to serve as second engineer officer.

Education & Training: have completed approved education and training and meet the standard of competence specified in section A-III/3 of the STCW Code.

Additional STCW 2010 Requirements

Chief engineer officers on ships of 3,000 kW propulsion power or more

Manage the operation of propulsion plant machinery

Knowledge of engine room management

Application of leadership and managerial skills

Contribute to the safety of personnel and ship

Chief engineer officers on ships of 750 - 3,000 kW propulsion power

Increased requirements for near coastal voyages