Career Path for Deck and Engine Cadets
Progression on Foreign Going ships
Career Path for Deck and Engine Cadets
at Pacific Maritime Institute
Deck Cadet Career Progression:
1. Deck Cadet (Trainee Officer) – Onboard training focused on navigation, safety, cargo handling, and seamanship.
2. Third Officer (OOW - Officer of the Watch) – Handles navigation watches, safety equipment, and communications.
3. Second Officer – Responsible for voyage planning, charts, and medical duties.
4. Chief Officer (First Mate) – Manages cargo operations, deck crew, and ship stability.
5. Captain (Master) – Overall command of the vessel, responsible for navigation, crew, cargo, and compliance.
Engine Cadet Career Progression:
1. Engine Cadet (Trainee Engineer) – Onboard training in engine room operations, maintenance, and safety systems.
2. Fourth Engineer – Assists with machinery maintenance, engine watch, and daily technical operations.
3. Third Engineer – Manages fuel systems, boilers, and auxiliary engines.
4. Second Engineer – Oversees the engine room, machinery upkeep, and junior engineers.
5. Chief Engineer – In charge of the entire technical and engineering department onboard.
With time, sea service, and further certification, cadets can rise to senior ranks and also pursue careers ashore in ship management, port operations, marine surveying, and maritime education.