Where could a superyacht engineer go next?
Whether you are new to the industry or have a large amount of qualifications and experience, anyone can potentially become a superyacht engineer, there are courses that range from beginner to expert. Many people can easily transfer existing engineering skills to become a superyacht engineer.
How do I become a superyacht engineer?
- Work through all the engineer courses set out by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA), regardless of having previous experience. This is still a very much standardised way into the industry. The system allows all those wanting to pursue a career in engineering to do so, no matter what previous training. Find courses by clicking here
- Those with a background in engineering may want to gain a separate qualification in mechanical, aerospace or maritime engineering and then embark on their yachting career. Having a solid degree behind you gives you lots more options in moving around in the engineering world. If you already have a lot of yacht/sea-service experience the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) will assess which level you may enter the yachting certification process. You will need to undertake the relevant engineering modules, ancillary courses and oral exams.
What are my career options as a superyacht engineer?
The progression for a superyacht engineer is linear and involves specific certifications based on technical knowledge, alongside experience at sea working on certain size engines.
As you build knowledge and time in the engine room, getting to grips with a number of systems to work on, your level of understanding will increase. To ensure constant progression, it is essential to gain experience and time onboard, which will allow continuation of further licensing.
At The Superyacht Professor we have online courses to help you progress and enhance your superyacht engineer qualifications, click here to find out more.
Becoming a Second Engineer on a superyacht
A second engineer is the chief engineer’s right hand and trust is very important in this working relationship. In this position, you have a great working knowledge of all yacht systems and can complete basic maintenance and repair independently as well as assist the chief on more advanced projects. This role would also include working with outside vendors and contractors.
The combination of hands-on learning from a senior engineer and technical education courses are compulsory to advance to a position as second engineer.
A Chief Engineer on a superyacht
A chief engineer is fully responsible for the entire engine room and safety onboard the yacht. This position requires leadership and strong management skills as well as technical expertise.
As the sizes of yachts increase, so does the amount of engineers onboard, the complexity of systems and scale of engineering projects that require a thorough amount of time and oversight.
An Electronic Technical Officer (ETO) on a superyacht
In some cases chief engineers can then develop a specialism in Electronics and may decide to become an Electronic Technical Officer (ETO) or an electrician. Monitoring all onboard electronic and electrical equipment with operational safety and efficiency of the vessel at the forefront.
If you’re keen to get started as a superyacht engineer, or are ready to move up the career ladder, we’ve got superyacht engineering courses to suit your requirements, including face to face and remote options to help you study in your own time.