July 21, 2020
Engineers and engineering services
However even trainee ‘greasers’ must acclimatise to additional pressures of work in a confined space or under potentially life-threatening conditions when travelling in the deep sea. The imperative of vessel safety demands a steep learning curve for ocean-going engineers.
More senior posts include the second engineer, third engineer, and chief engineer, with different training required for different vessels. The chief engineer is a prestigious position aboard a vessel and comes with weighty responsibilities, notably the mechanical wellbeing of the vessel and its all-important engines. These include monitoring engines and mechanical systems and overseeing repairs.
Engineering skills acquired in non-fishing related sectors can be adapted to the fishing environment.
Engineering skills are also required at onshore fish processing facilities, as well as in the boat building environment.
Key tasks:
• Maintain and repair vessel engines.
• Alert the skipper / first mate in the event of mechanical problems.
• Record engine data and check tools.
Entry requirements/training:
Entry-level jobs as ‘greasers’ or ‘oilers’ on a fishing trawler may require little more than basic school education, although in-house and on-the-job training is required. A second-tier greaser, called a M3 greaser, requires a M3 Efficient Certificate. The next level up is a M4 greaser who requires a M4 Efficient Certificate. Familiarity with engines and equipment is imperative.
More senior posts would require formal tertiary education engineering qualifications. Entry level jobs would require at least an Able Seafarer Deck certificate, and more senior posts must acquire a certificate of competency as: Chief Engineer, Chief Engineer (<3000 kW), Second Engineer, Second Engineer (<3000 kW), Engineer Officer, Electro-Technical Officer.
