Chief Engineers
The Chief Engineer on a cruise ship is responsible for maintaining the various ship’s systems and managing the various crew members in the department. This includes systems such as the engines and their controls, the electrical systems, the pumps and hydraulics, and more.
In Focus: Cruise Ship Engineers
It is the Chief Engineer’s job to troubleshoot, repair, and maintain the ship’s systems. They also:
- Maintain deck machinery.
- Air conditioning units.
- Inspect for structural problems.
- Ensure the ship stays watertight.
- Supervise fueling and quality.
- Obtain maximum use of fuel.
In addition to the above, logs must be kept of all activities, and personnel need to be trained. Prepares the ship to be ready at all times for inspection.
The qualifications for the Chief Engineer position include having formal technical training in the areas of marine electricity, diesel mechanics, and refrigeration. You also need to have a minimum of three years ship experience in marine engineering. Management skills are needed, along with being able to read, speak, and write in excellent English, and math skills.