Second-in-command and head of the deck department, responsible for cargo operations, stability, deck maintenance and acting as Master when required.
Responsibilities
Plan and supervise cargo / ballast operations, stowage, securing and stability calculations
Lead deck department work, planned maintenance and hull / hatch / LSA / FFA upkeep
Keep navigational watch (usually 04–08) and assist Master in passage planning
Act as Ship Security Officer and/or medical officer when designated
Coordinate drills, emergency teams and deck crew training
Manage deck stores, requisitions and Hours of Rest records
Deputise for the Master
Qualifications
STCW / Mandatory
STCW II/2 Certificate of Competency – Chief Mate (≥ 3,000 GT or 500–3,000 GT)
STCW IV/2 GMDSS General Operator's Certificate (GOC)
STCW VI/1 Basic Training (PST, FPFF, EFA, PSSR)
STCW VI/2-1 Proficiency in Survival Craft & Rescue Boats (PSCRB)
STCW VI/3 Advanced Fire Fighting
STCW VI/4-1 Medical First Aid
STCW VI/4-2 Medical Care
STCW VI/5 Ship Security Officer
ECDIS generic training (STCW A-II/1, A-II/2) + equipment type-specific familiarization (ISM)
Radar Navigation, Radar Plotting & Use of ARPA – management level
Bridge Resource Management / Bridge Team Management (STCW A-II/1, A-II/2)
Leadership & Managerial Skills (STCW A-II/2 / A-III/2)
STCW V/1-1 Advanced Oil / Chemical Tanker Cargo Ops or V/1-2 Advanced Liquefied Gas Tanker Cargo Ops (as per vessel type) – tankers
STCW V/3 Advanced IGF Code training (gas / low-flashpoint-fuelled ships)
STCW V/4 Advanced training for ships in polar waters (if trading in polar waters)
STCW V/2 Crisis Management & Human Behaviour (passenger ships); STCW V/2 Passenger Safety, Cargo Safety & Hull Integrity (ro-ro passenger ships)
Other / Company
Valid PEME / medical fitness certificate (STCW I/9; MLC 2006 Reg 1.2) and ship-specific familiarization (STCW I/14) before assuming duties
Ship Handling / Ship Simulator training
Cargo handling & stowage / loading computer familiarization
Company Chief Officer assessment