In this article, we will explore the top three promising shore based roles for Junior marine engineers. Using examples, we will show why these roles stand out, and help you choose the right one with guiding steps and clear flowchart.
1. PMS (Planned Maintenance System) Engineer:
Role Overview: The number of ship machinery is vast, and it’s nearly impossible to remember what maintenance needs to be done and when. As a solution, a planned maintenance system (PMS) serves as a platform for maintaining ship equipment, recording their maintenance history, and managing spare parts. This entire set of details is known as the PMS database. The PMS Engineer ensures that all information in the database is kept up-to-date and accurate, with responsibilities including adding or updating data related to equipment, maintenance, and spare parts.
There are several popular Planned Maintenance System (PMS) applications used in the maritime industry. Here are five famous ones: ShipNet, AMOS, MESPAS, NS5, Sertica.
In addition to maintaining the PMS database, the PMS Engineer also handles daily queries and plays a crucial role in monitoring PMS activities, identifying any compliance gaps related to the Safety Management System (SMS). They communicate these gaps to the vessels and superintendents, ensuring that all necessary steps are taken to address them.
Why It’s Suitable: Despite not having extensive experience as Chief Engineers or Second Engineers, they are well-acquainted with the machinery, equipment, and systems onboard. Their hands-on experience on a ship and their overall technical knowledge make them ideal candidates for this role.
Example: Consider a 4th Engineer who possesses a comprehensive understanding of all engine room systems and has frequently dealt with various machinery issues at sea. Their deep understanding of these problems adds confidence and qualifies them to efficiently manage the PMS.
2. Vessel Performance Analyst:
Role Overview: Vessel performance analysts use data-driven methods to evaluate the efficiency and performance of ships. They assess metrics like fuel consumption, speed, and machinery performance, providing actionable insights to optimize vessel operations.
Why It’s Suitable: Having been directly involved in the operations and performance of ship machinery, 3rd and 4th Engineers have a practical understanding of what affects vessel performance. This hands-on experience, combined with data analytics, can lead to impactful optimizations.
Example: A 3rd Engineer, having observed the impact of different operating conditions on fuel consumption, can use this knowledge to analyze data and recommend best practices for fuel-efficient operations.
3. Technical Assistant to the Technical Superintendent:
Role Overview: Technical Assistants support the Technical Superintendent in overseeing the technical operations and maintenance of a fleet of vessels. They liaise between the ship and the shore, ensuring that vessels are in optimal condition and meet regulatory standards.
Why It’s Suitable: The role requires a deep understanding of ship operations, machinery, and maintenance – areas 3rd and 4th Engineers are well-versed in. Their experience makes them adept at understanding the challenges faced at sea and communicating them effectively to shore-based teams.
Example: Imagine a scenario where a ship faces a recurring technical issue. A Technical Assistant, with their engineering background, can liaise with the ship’s crew, understand the problem, and work with the Technical Superintendent to devise a solution.
Deciding the Best Fit:
Choosing the right shore-based role is a significant decision. Here are some guiding steps:
Self-reflection: Understand your strengths and passions. Do you enjoy troubleshooting and maintaining machinery? Or are you more inclined towards data analysis and optimization?
Research & Networking: Understand the day-to-day responsibilities, challenges, and growth opportunities. Connect with professionals already in these roles. Their firsthand experiences can provide invaluable insights.
Skill Enhancement: Consider additional courses or certifications that can help your transition, such as data analytics for a Vessel Performance Analyst role.
Here is a flowchart to help Junior Engineers decide on the most suitable shore based roles:
Conclusion:
Each of these roles holds promising future prospects. The maritime industry is ever-evolving, and as it embraces new technologies and methodologies, the demand for experts in these roles will only grow. However, it’s essential to understand that the success and growth in any of these roles depend significantly on individual potential. Just as two ships can navigate the same waters differently based on their captain’s expertise, two individuals in the same role can have varied trajectories based on their dedication, continuous learning, and ability to innovate. It’s not just about choosing the right role but also about doing justice to it.