Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Electrical Technical Officer

🎯 Role Definition

The Electrical Technical Officer (ETO) is a pivotal licensed engineering professional responsible for the seamless operation, maintenance, and repair of all electrical, electronic, and control systems aboard a modern vessel. As the ship's resident technology expert, you will ensure the reliability of everything from high-voltage power generation and dynamic positioning systems to critical navigation and communication equipment. This role demands a proactive, hands-on problem-solver who guarantees the vessel's safety, efficiency, and operational readiness in compliance with international maritime regulations.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Marine Electrician
Shore-Based Electrical Engineer or Technician
Engineering Cadet with ETO training and endorsement

Advancement To:

Chief Electro-Technical Officer (CETO)
Electrical Superintendent (Shore-Based)
Fleet Technical Manager

Lateral Moves:

Dynamic Positioning (DP) Maintenance Specialist
Automation and Controls Engineer (Onshore/Offshore)

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Oversee the complete lifecycle of all onboard electrical and electronic equipment, from installation and commissioning to routine maintenance and emergency repair, ensuring minimal downtime.
Execute comprehensive planned maintenance on high-voltage (HV) systems, including generators, transformers, and switchboards, in strict adherence to safety protocols and manufacturer guidelines.
Diagnose and troubleshoot complex faults within integrated automation systems (IAS), programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and distributed control systems (DCS) to maintain vessel stability and operational integrity.
Maintain and ensure the operational readiness of all bridge navigation and communication equipment, including RADAR, ECDIS, GMDSS, and satellite communication systems.
Manage the vessel’s main power generation and distribution network, performing load management, synchronization, and blackout/start-up procedures to ensure a stable and reliable power supply.
Conduct routine inspections, testing, and calibration of all electrical safety devices, emergency power supplies (UPS), and battery systems to guarantee their functionality in critical situations.
Take primary responsibility for the maintenance and repair of advanced Dynamic Positioning (DP) systems, including sensors, thruster controls, and associated power management components.
Interpret complex electrical schematics, single-line diagrams, and technical manuals to facilitate effective troubleshooting and system modifications.
Manage the inventory of electrical spare parts, tools, and consumables, preparing requisitions and ensuring critical components are always available.
Uphold and implement the vessel’s Planned Maintenance System (PMS), diligently recording all work performed, updating job histories, and providing feedback for system optimization.
Serve as the onboard expert during internal and external audits (e.g., Flag State, Class, Port State Control), ensuring all electrical systems and documentation are compliant.
Supervise, train, and mentor junior electricians and engine ratings, fostering a culture of safety, technical excellence, and continuous improvement.
Plan and execute complex electrical projects, such as system upgrades or retrofits, coordinating with shore-based management, vendors, and classification societies.
Respond immediately and effectively to electrical emergencies, such as fires, flooding, or major equipment failures, leading the technical response to mitigate risks.
Perform detailed insulation resistance tests and thermographic inspections on electrical machinery and distribution panels to proactively identify potential failures.
Ensure the proper functioning and maintenance of propulsion control systems, steering gear systems, and other critical electro-hydraulic machinery.
Maintain all electrical aspects of cargo handling equipment, including cranes, pumps, and monitoring systems, to ensure safe and efficient cargo operations.
Administer and maintain the vessel's internal communication systems, including the public address (PA) system, telephone network, and CCTV security system.
Prepare detailed technical reports, failure analysis documents, and handover notes for back-to-back crew changes, ensuring seamless continuity of operations.
Champion and enforce Lock-Out/Tag-Out (LOTO) and other safe work procedures for all electrical work performed onboard, ensuring the safety of all personnel.
Liaise directly with equipment manufacturers and shore-side technical support to resolve persistent or highly complex technical challenges.

Secondary Functions

Support the Chief Engineer with ad-hoc technical investigations and system performance analysis.
Contribute to the vessel's energy efficiency management plan (SEEMP) by optimizing electrical systems and consumption.
Collaborate with other ship departments, particularly Deck and Engine, to troubleshoot and resolve cross-functional technical issues.
Participate in daily operational meetings, toolbox talks, and safety briefings within the Engine department.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

High Voltage (HV) Systems: Certified and experienced in operating and maintaining marine high-voltage systems (above 1000V).
Automation & PLC: Proficient in troubleshooting and maintaining Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs, e.g., Siemens S7, Allen-Bradley) and ship-wide automation systems (e.g., Kongsberg, Wärtsilä).
Dynamic Positioning (DP) Systems: Strong knowledge of DP system architecture and experience in the maintenance of DP sensors, controls, and associated power systems. A DP Maintenance certificate is highly desirable.
Power Generation & Management: Expertise in diesel-electric propulsion, power management systems (PMS), generators, and switchgear.
Electronics & Instrumentation: Skilled in troubleshooting and repairing complex electronic circuits, sensors, and control system instrumentation.
GMDSS & Navigation Equipment: Competence in maintaining GMDSS communication equipment, RADAR/ARPA, ECDIS, and GPS systems.
Schematic Interpretation: Ability to read, understand, and interpret complex electrical, electronic, and hydraulic diagrams and blueprints.
Planned Maintenance Systems (PMS): Familiarity with software-based PMS such as AMOS, ShipSure, or similar platforms.

Soft Skills

Advanced Problem-Solving: A logical and systematic approach to diagnosing and resolving complex, time-sensitive technical failures.
Resilience & Composure: Ability to work effectively and maintain clear thinking under high-pressure, emergency situations.
Strong Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for reporting, handovers, and coordination with a multinational crew.
Teamwork & Leadership: Capable of working collaboratively within the engine department and mentoring junior crew members.
Attention to Detail: Meticulous approach to maintenance, documentation, and compliance with safety procedures.
Adaptability: Flexible and able to adapt to changing technologies, vessel types, and operational demands.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

Electro-Technical Officer (ETO) Certificate of Competency (STCW Reg III/6)
All required STCW basic and advanced safety training certificates.
High Voltage (HV) Management Level Certificate.

Preferred Education:

Bachelor's or Associate's Degree in a relevant field of study.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Electrical Engineering
Marine Engineering
Electronics and Communication Engineering

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

A minimum of 2-5 years of sea-time experience serving as an Electrical Technical Officer on vessels of a similar type and tonnage.

Preferred:

Demonstrable experience on specific vessel types (e.g., LNG/LPG Carriers, Cruise Ships, DP-2/DP-3 Offshore Construction Vessels, Drillships).
Hands-on experience with specific major equipment manufacturers (e.g., ABB, Siemens, Kongsberg, Wärtsilä, Caterpillar).