Second Engineer (Engineer Officer)
せかんどえんじにあ（きかんし）
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
In the ship's engine room, operates and maintains engines and auxiliary machinery, assists the chief engineer, and supports safe navigation.
Description
The Second Engineer (Second Engineer Officer) is responsible for operating and managing main engines such as diesel engines, turbines, and generators in the ship's engine room, conducting regular inspections, repairs, and planning and executing maintenance. They also create engine logbooks, manage safety, respond to emergencies, provide work instructions and training for junior engineers based on directives from the Chief Engineer (First Engineer Officer), and maintain engine performance during voyages on a 24-hour shift system.
Future Outlook
Stable demand is expected due to increasing international logistics volumes and larger ships, but advancements in labor-saving and remote operation technologies will require advanced specialized knowledge and IT skills.
Personality Traits
Calm and composed / Cautious / Good team player / Strong sense of responsibility
Work Style
International voyages / Long-term voyages / Onboard living / Port operations / Shift work
Career Path
Third-Class Marine Engineer (Engine) → Second Engineer → First Engineer Officer (Chief Engineer) → Marine Technical Instructor / Ship Training Lecturer → Ship Operations Manager → Maritime Company Technical Manager
Required Skills
Auxiliary Machinery Maintenance Management / Diesel Engine Operation and Maintenance / Emergency Response / Engine Logbook Recording / Safety Management
Recommended Skills
Automatic Control Systems / English Communication (Maritime Field) / ISO Standards / Remote Monitoring Technology / Welding and Metalworking Techniques
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Adaptability | Need to respond quickly to changes in weather or voyage conditions. |
| Analytical & Logical Thinking | Essential for identifying the cause of equipment failures and taking prompt measures. |
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Overlooking small signs of abnormality can lead to major accidents. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Physical strength is required for standing work in narrow engine rooms and handling heavy objects. |
| Problem Solving | Requires quick judgment and response to sudden engine troubles. |
| Stress Tolerance | Requires mental toughness for long shift work and emergency responses. |
| Collaboration & Teamwork | Essential for collaborating with the engine room team to maintain safe operations. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Creativity & Ideation | Mainly routine operation and inspection tasks with few opportunities for creative thinking. |
Related Qualifications
- Boiler Engineer
- Hazardous Materials Handler
- Second-Class Marine Engineer (Engine)
Aliases
- 2nd Engineer
- Second Engineer
Related Jobs
- Boiler Engineer
- Captain
- Chief Engineer (Chief Engineer Officer)
- Navigator
- Third Engineer