Second Officer (Deck Department)
Rank & Department: Third in command of the vessel, after the Captain and Chief Officer. Part of the Deck Department.
Direct Reports To: Chief Officer (primarily), Captain.
Direct Supervision Of: Typically oversees Able Seamen (A/B), Ordinary Seamen (O/S), and Cadets on watch.
Primary Function: The Navigational Watch Officer and the ship's Safety Officer. Primarily responsible for the safe navigation of the vessel while on watch at sea, and for the maintenance of all lifesaving, firefighting, and safety equipment.
Key Responsibilities:
- Watchkeeping: Stands a navigational watch (typically 4-8 AM/PM). Directs the bridge team, ensures safe navigation using ECDIS, radar, and traditional methods, complies with COLREGs, and maintains the deck logbook.
- Navigation: Prepares and updates passage plans, charts, and publications. Calculates positions, courses, and weather routing. Responsible for the condition and correction of all nautical charts and publications.
- Safety Officer: Acts as the appointed Safety Officer under the ISM Code. Maintains all lifesaving appliances (LSA) and firefighting equipment (FFE). Conducts weekly and monthly inspections, ensures statutory certifications are valid, and leads drills. Manages the ship's hospital and medical supplies.
- Cargo (on applicable ships): Assists the Chief Officer with cargo watch, stability calculations, and cargo securing, especially on container ships or bulk carriers.
- Administration: Handles much of the ship's paperwork, including radio communications (GMDSS), safety records, and port documentation.
Required Certifications: Officer of the Watch (OOW) unlimited license, GMDSS General Operator's Certificate, proficiency in ECDIS, STCW certificates for advanced firefighting, medical care, and survival craft.
