Technical
Officer / Electrician
Job Description:
ETOElectronic Technical Officers (ETOs) and/or Electricians are
generally employed on larger superyachts where the Engineering
department comprises around 4 or 5 crew. In some instances one
person may fulfil both roles, or there may be different individuals
for each. If there is no ETO or Electrician on board, their
responsibilities would fall to the Engineer. ETOs and Electricians
usually report to the Chief Engineer.
The ETO takes responsibility for the day-to-day maintenance of
all electronic, computer, audio/visual and communications equipment
and ensures its efficient operation. On a large superyacht these
systems are likely to be numerous, for example: Radio, radar,
telephones, satellite communications including internet and other
communication and navigation systems, personal computers, TV and
DVD systems, Hifi and sound systems, and electronic management
systems linked to equipment on the yacht.
The ETO is also responsible for ensuring that all planned
maintenance work takes place on these systems and co-ordinates
operations with shore-side technicians.
The Electricians’ role is similar to that of the ETO, however
the systems he/she would be responsible for include all electrical
circuits on board, circuit breakers and switches, lighting,
batteries, etc.
Required Skills and Experience:
An ETO or Electrician may have experience as an Engineer on
board a superyacht who has developed a specialism in electronics or
electrics.
They may however have experience as a computer technician,
radio/radar specialist or marine electrician working in shore-side
employment. Certainly some level of experience of working with
similar systems to those on board would be expected.
Required Certification:
An ETO or Electrician should hold the MCA STCW Basic Safety
certification, and while not mandatory, may also hold
qualifications in electrics/electronics. The MCA STCW Engineering
certification may also be a requirement, depending on the
yacht.
Salary Range:
An ETO or Electrician would usually earn a salary of between
£2,000 and £3,500 per month, depending on experience and the scope
of the position.
Career Progression:
Superyacht Crew:
If an ETO or Electrician has a suitable background in general
superyacht engineering, he/she may progress to the position of
Chief Engineer.
Marine Industry:
An ETO or Electrician may choose to transfer their skills to a
position in the Merchant Navy.
Alternatively an experienced ETO or Electrician would be in
demand in a number of roles within the marine industry.
Boatbuilding and shipbuilding firms both employ these roles.
Other Industries:
Electronics and Electrical skills are valued in many other
industries. Depending on the position, it may however be necessary
to attend training courses or gain qualifications to convert your
marine engineering skills to those relevant to the position.