Electro-Technical Officer (ETO) - Job description. What is this? Example of a marine electrical engineer job description

In the maritime industry, ETO stands for Electro-Technical Officer. This is a specialized crew member responsible for maintaining and managing all electrical, electronic, and automation systems on board a vessel. An ETO job description outlines the duties, skills, and qualifications required for this critical role.

Who Is an Electro-Technical Officer?

An Electro-Technical Officer (ETO) is a shipboard engineer who ensures that all electrical and electronic equipment operates safely and efficiently. Unlike traditional marine engineers who focus on mechanical systems, the ETO deals primarily with electrical power, control systems, and advanced technology.

Key Responsibilities of an ETO

1. Maintenance of Electrical Systems

The ETO is responsible for:

• Power generation and distribution systems
• Switchboards and circuit breakers
• Electrical wiring and lighting systems

2. Automation and Control Systems

Modern ships rely heavily on automation. The ETO:

• Maintains PLC and control systems
• Monitors alarms and sensors
• Ensures proper functioning of automated machinery

3. Navigation and Communication Equipment

The ETO supports critical onboard systems such as:

• Radar and GPS
• GMDSS communication systems
• Bridge electronic equipment

4. Troubleshooting and Repairs

• Diagnosing electrical faults
• Performing emergency repairs
• Conducting preventive maintenance

Skills and Qualifications

A typical ETO job description includes:

• A degree or diploma in electrical or electronic engineering
• Certification under STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping)
• Strong knowledge of marine electrical systems
• Good command of English
• Problem-solving and analytical skills

Working Environment

The ETO usually:

• Works on commercial vessels (cargo ships, tankers, cruise ships)
• Serves contracts lasting several months
• May be the only electrical specialist onboard
• Must be available for emergency situations at any time

Importance of the Role

The ETO plays a crucial role in ensuring:

• Safe vessel operations
• Reliable power supply
• Proper functioning of navigation and communication systems

Without an ETO, modern ships—highly dependent on electronics and automation—cannot operate efficiently.

An ETO job description defines the role of a highly skilled maritime professional responsible for all electrical and electronic systems on a ship. It combines engineering expertise, technical troubleshooting, and operational responsibility.

The ETO is the person who keeps a ship’s electrical and electronic “brain” running smoothly.

Example of a marine electrical engineer job description

Electro-Technical Officer (ETO) - Job description (Example)

1. The Electro-Technical Officer (ETO) forms part of the Support level of the vessel. From 01.01.2017, he must hold ETO certificate according to STCW regulation III/6.
2. He will execute any other duty beyond the present "Job Description", assigned to him by the Chief-Engineer or the 2nd Engineer Officer in relation with work in the Engine room, or the Chief-Mate (in relation with work on Reefer Containers), or deemed necessary by himself for the safe navigation and the good running of the vessel, protect crew, cargo, vessel and Owner's interests.
3. Good knowledge of English.
4. Familiar with computer as user.

NORMAL WORKING TIME:

Working hours at sea and in port in accordance with Chief-Mate's and Chief-Engineer's working plan :

Meal breaks, every day:

• Breakfast - from 07:30 to 07:55
• Lunch - from 12:00 to 12:30
• Dinner - from 18:30 to 19:00

All work done on Saturday afternoon, Sunday/Holiday and during night time beyond the 44 hours per week, whether in port or at Sea, is compensated by the officer's lumpsum overtime allowance.

Particularly in ports, the Electro-Technical Officer (ETO) is working according to necessity of cargo operations.

RESPONSIBILITY

He is responsible towards the Chief-Engineer for:

1. The maintenance of the vessel's electrical and electronic equipment,
2. Electrical consumable stores and spare parts,
3. Batteries, Main and Emergency switchboard, Starter panels and All electrical equipment throughout the vessel.
4. Alarms, UMS test schedules,
5. Periodical cleaning and overhaul of all Electro-motors, generators, regular insulation tests (megger tests) etc.,
6. Observing the guidelines on board for the separation and storage of garbage for environment friendly disposal,
7. Taking care of Cargo cranes maintenance,
8. He is at the disposal of the engineers for assistance in any other work as required,
9. He is at the disposal of the Chief-Engineer in the engine room in an emergency,
10. He observes the Ship's Security Plan (SSP) as ordered by the Master or the Ship Security Officer (SSO). Particular responsibility for efficient lighting on board the ship in relation of security.
11. He organizes the training of the Electrician Cadet under the supervision of the 2nd Engineer.

GMDSS

1. In connection with the 2nd Officer, the Electro-Technical Officer (ETO) is responsible towards the Master for first level maintenance of communication, radio and navigation equipment, particularly batteries.

ADMINISTRATION

1. Prepares the inventory of all electric (electronic) parts;
2. Prepares inventories of spares for reefers as per Charterers/Lines requirements;
3. Keeps records of reefers spare parts and repairs;
4. Prepares the current order for the spare necessary for maintenance;
5. Prepares for March and September the semestrial requisition list for spares and consumable stores related to his department and submit to the Chief-Engineer;
6. Keeps records of each container loading conditions and above described and twice-daily temperature monitoring.

AUTHORITY

The Electro-Technical Officer (ETO) is submitted to the Authority of the 2nd Engineer-Officer (for work in the engine room) and of the Chief-Officer during loading, discharging and maintenance of reefer containers

For every request, the Electro-Technical Officer (ETO) contacts first the Chief-Engineer, then only the Master, if necessary.

NOTE

• This document forms part of the seaman's contract of engagement. It is a summary - but in no way an exhaustive enumeration - of the most important tasks and obligations.
• The Master has overruling power and is always - and will remain - the only person on board entitled to take the appropriate steps and give the necessary order to anybody on board, at any time, to safeguard the vessel.
• The Master can modify or complete these particular conditions whenever he deems it necessary.

The seaman accepts the full implementation of the Company's Alcohol and Drugs deterrent testing program and agrees to participate to unannounced tests.