Merchant navy deck officers handle the navigation, communications, crew, cargo and overall running of the ship. They also look after passengers on ships and take part in on board
social events. As a deck officer, you would work at one of four levels, depending on your experience: Master (Captain) – you would have full responsibility for the overall running and safety of the ship, crew (ratings), passengers and cargo. You would handle legal and commercial matters and keep all the ship’s records up to date Chief Officer – you would assist the Master and oversee deck operations and maintenance, cargo handling and storage. You would also manage work schedules and supervise other officers Second Officer – you would be responsible for navigation, using radar, satellite and computer systems. You would also monitor the vessel’s position, speed, direction and weather reports, and carry out watch duties at sea and in port
Third Officer – this would usually be your first post after training, dealing with the ship’s safety equipment and lifeboats. You would assist the Second Officer and carry out watch duties. Some very large cargo ships and passenger liners may have a fifth officer level. As a deck officer in the Royal Fleet Auxiliary (civilian-crewed ships operated by the Ministry of
Defence), you could be responsible for monitoring helicopter movements, specialised navigation and nuclear biological chemical damage (NCBD) control.

Tags: FOREIGN GOING VESSEL