3rd Engineer

Crew Life at Sea Ltd.; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

Crew Life at Sea Ltd. is seeking a junior 3rd Engineer to assist with engine room operation and maintenance under supervision. You will gradually gain experience and responsibility while ensuring safe, efficient ship operations.

The role requires a valid STCW 3rd Engineer certificate, a marine/mechanical engineering degree or diploma, and good English communication. Some shipboard exposure is preferred, with a willingness to learn in a dynamic marine environment.

Qualifications

• Valid 3rd Engineer certificate under STCW / flag state.
• Degree or diploma in marine/mechanical engineering or equivalent.
• Some shipboard or engineering experience preferred (entry/junior level).
• Basic knowledge of ship systems and engine room operations.
• Strong English communication and reporting skills.
• Willingness to learn and work under supervision.
• Ability to work shifts and in challenging environments.
• Commitment to safety and environmental procedures.

Responsibilities

• Stand watch with senior watchkeeper and monitor propulsion and auxiliary systems.
• Assist in routine maintenance, inspections and minor repairs.
• Help troubleshoot, test, and monitor equipment performance.
• Support senior engineers in overhauls and repair projects.
• Maintain logs and documentation of engine room operations.
• Participate in emergency drills and risk assessments.
• Coordinate with hotel, electrical, deck departments as needed.
• Comply with safety, environmental and regulatory procedures.

Skills

English communication

Teamwork

Willingness to learn

Ability to work under supervision

Education

Marine/mechanical engineering degree or diploma

Job description

The 3rd Engineer is a junior engineering officer (Junior Watchkeeper) who assists with engine room operation and maintenance under supervision, while gradually gaining experience and responsibility.

Key Responsibilities

• Stand watch with senior watchkeeper and assist in monitoring propulsion and auxiliary systems.
• Assist in routine maintenance, inspections, and minor repairs of machinery and systems as delegated.
• Help in troubleshooting, testing, and monitoring equipment performance.
• Support senior engineers in overhauls and repair projects.
• Familiarize and maintain systems assigned (e.g. fuel, lube, pumps, boilers, piping, heat exchangers).
• Help maintain logs, reports, and documentation of engine room operations.
• Comply with safety, environmental and operational procedures.
• Assist in emergency drills, risk assessments, and damage control in the engine department.
• Work in coordination with other departments (hotel, electrical, deck) when needed.

Requirements / Qualifications

• Valid 3rd Engineer (or equivalent watchkeeping engineer) certificate under STCW / applicable flag state.
• A degree or diploma in marine / mechanical engineering or equivalent.
• Some shipboard or engineering experience preferred (often minimal, as this is entry or junior level).
• Basic knowledge of ship systems, engine room operations, and machinery.
• Ability to learn, follow instructions, and work under supervision.
• Good communication and report writing skills in English.
• Ability to work shifts, under pressure, and in challenging environments.
• Familiarity or willingness to train in safety, environmental, and regulatory compliance.