Careers

Do you want to be a Marine Chief Engineer?

Do you enjoy math and recognize patterns easily? Are you logical, organized, a good communicator and a planner? Would you like to work in a marine environment? Then, we may have the job for you!

What do they do?

A chief engineer's key responsibility is to ensure that the machinery and systems of the vessel operate safely, reliably and efficiently with attention to personnel safety and environmental protection.

Chief engineers supervise the senior, second and third engineers and oilers and oversee the operation, maintenance and repair of engine room machinery onboard.

How do I become a Marine Chief Engineer?

To become a marine chief engineer, you must acquire a First Class Motor Certificate of Competence, a Marine Emergency Duties (MED) certificate and a valid medical certificate.

To obtain a First Class Motor Certificate, you will have to first obtain your fourth, third and second class certificates or tickets, as they are officially called. These are obtained after significant time at sea. With sufficient sea time, you are eligible to apply for and be tested by Transport Canada for these tickets of certification.

The Propulsion Plant Simulator Certificate is also a requirement.

Individuals interested in the Officer Training Program offered at the Canadian Coast Guard College should visit the college website for more information at www.cgc.gc.ca.

Openings for jobs with the Canadian Coast Guard are advertised through the Public Service Commission website at www.jobs.gc.ca.

Spotlight on… Mia Hicks, Chief Engineer, CCGS Ann Harvey

"There is also the aspect of a lot of job satisfaction – you can see the fruits of your labour."

I love my job because it is challenging and does not allow for complacency. The daily demands of my job vary, which keeps it interesting," Mia says.

This document is also available for download or viewing as a PDF version(1.3 MB).

Published By:
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Communications Branch
P.O.Box 5667
St. John’s, NL A1C 5X1

DFO/2010-1610
Catalogue Number: Fs154-7/1-2010
ISBN: 978-1-100-51371-3
© Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada, 2010