Supports the chief engineer and builds toward a chief engineer ticket.
Photo: Karan Suthar / Unsplash
The 2nd engineer assists with the day-to-day running and maintenance of the engine room, standing in for the chief engineer when needed and building the sea time and experience required for their own chief engineer ticket. Found mainly on larger yachts carrying a dedicated engineering department.
What the job actually involves
Assisting with planned maintenance on engines, generators and mechanical systems
Monitoring engine room systems and recording readings and logs
Supporting repairs and troubleshooting alongside the chief engineer
Keeping engineering spaces, tools and spares organised
Getting hired
An MCA engineering certificate of competence appropriate to the yacht's engine power (e.g. AEC1/AEC2 or the Y-series)
STCW Basic Safety Training and a valid ENG1
A mechanical or marine engineering background, often via a cadetship or apprenticeship
Typical pay
2nd engineers typically earn €4,500–€7,000 a month, found mainly on larger yachts carrying a dedicated engineering department.
