Chief Engineer

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The Chief Engineer on a merchant vessel is the official title of someone qualified to oversee the entire engine department; the qualification is colloquially called a "Chief's Ticket".

[edit] Overview

The Chief Engineer commonly referred to as "The Chief" or just "Chief" is responsible for all operations and maintenance that has to do with any and all engineering equipment throughout the entire ship.

The Chief Engineer also determines the fuel, lube oil, and other consumables required for a voyage, required inventory for spare parts, oversees fuel, lube, and slop oil transfers, prepares the engine room for inspection by local marine/safety authorities (i.e. U.S. Coast Guard), oversees all major maintenance, is required to be in the engine room during maneuvering operations, and is in charge of the engine room during emergency situations. This is the short list of a Chief Engineer's duties aboard a merchant vessel.

The Chief's right hand man/woman, the First Assistant Engineer/Second Engineer, supervises the daily operation of the engine room and engine department and reports directly to the Chief.

Obtaining a Chief Engineer's License for Unlimited Horsepower is, by far, the highest achievement a licensed engineering officer can reach on a merchant vessel. Sailing as Chief Engineer is an immense undertaking of great responsibility.