The Chief Electrician is responsible to the Chief Engineer for the safe and efficient maintenance, operation, testing, and repair of all electrical and electronic systems onboard. This includes power generation and distribution systems, automation, communication, navigation, and hotel-related electrical installations. The Chief Electrician leads the vessel’s electrical team, ensuring continuous operation of all equipment and strict compliance with safety, class, and regulatory requirements.

Key Responsibilities

Technical Duties

Oversee the safe and efficient operation, maintenance, and repair of:

Main propulsion machinery and propulsion motors.

Generators and associated control systems.

Power distribution systems, including main switchboards, transformers, and distribution panels.

Power Management System (PMS), Integrated Automation System (IAS), and all related PLCs.

Hotel, accommodation, and galley electrical equipment.

Emergency power supply systems, UPS, batteries, and all emergency and transitional lighting.

Fire detection and firefighting systems (including water mist and fire screen door closing systems).

Deck machinery (cranes, winches, windlasses, davits, ramps, gangways, tender pontoons, etc.).

Passenger and service elevators.

Stabilizer and control systems.

Bridge navigation and communication systems (in coordination with the IT Officer).

 

Maintenance & Reporting

Ensure all preventive and corrective maintenance tasks are carried out efficiently and recorded in the PMS.

Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of maintenance, testing, and repairs for all electrical systems.

Prepare and submit monthly, quarterly, and annual SMS reports, including megger tests of all electric motors.

Plan and request electrical spares, tools, and consumables through the Chief Engineer.

Ensure manuals, drawings, and documentation are current and properly filed.

 

Safety & Compliance

Ensure all electrical work is performed in accordance with SOLAS, ISM, Class, and MARPOL regulations.

Implement safe working practices and ensure lock-out/tag-out procedures are followed.

Report any malfunctions, incidents, or unsafe conditions to the Chief Engineer without delay.

Participate actively in all safety drills and emergency procedures.

Supervision & Coordination

Lead and coordinate the vessel’s electrical team, including engine and hotel electricians.

Plan daily activities and allocate duties in coordination with the Chief Engineer.

Liaise closely with other departments to minimize downtime and ensure smooth vessel operation.

Prepare a comprehensive handover report for the incoming Chief Electrician upon relief.

 

Qualifications & Requirements

Licensed Electro-Technical Officer (ETO) or equivalent certification.

Minimum 3–5 years of experience in shipboard electrical systems, with at least 1 year in a supervisory role.

Strong technical knowledge of marine power, automation, and control systems.

Familiarity with PMS, IAS, PLCs, and Class/ISM requirements.

Good command of English (verbal and written).

STCW certification and valid medical fitness.

Strong leadership, organizational, and troubleshooting skills.

 

Chain of Command

Reports to: Chief Engineer

Receives instructions from: Chief Engineer

Supervises: Electrical Team (Engine and Hotel Electricians)