Ship Crew Ranks, Positions & Responsibilities 2026
- Dushyant Bisht
- Oct 30, 2024
- 14 min read
Updated: Jan 9
Key Takeaways
Ship crews are organized into three main departments: Deck (navigation), Engine (machinery), and Catering (hospitality services).
The Captain holds ultimate authority over vessel operations, crew safety, and regulatory compliance.
Career progression follows clear ranks from entry-level positions like Ordinary Seaman to senior officer roles.
All maritime professionals must obtain STCW certifications covering navigation, safety, and emergency response procedures.
Specialized vessels like cruise ships and research boats include additional roles such as Medical Officers and Entertainment Staff.
Table of Contents
A ship’s crew is organized into a clear hierarchy of ranks and roles to operate the ship safely and efficiently. Most ships follow similar structure: Deck Department, Engine Department, and Catering/Steward Department, led by senior officers who supervise daily operations and emergency readiness.
The maritime industry powers global trade by moving cargo, passengers, and essential services across oceans. To do this reliably, every ship depends on a trained, coordinated crew where each position has defined responsibilities. Ship crew roles vary by ship type and size, from cargo ships and tankers to cruise liners, but the core framework remains consistent: the Deck Department manages navigation, safety, cargo handling, and bridge operations; the Engine Department maintains propulsion, power generation, and technical systems; and the Catering/Steward Department supports onboard services, especially on passenger ships.
Within this hierarchy, senior officers (such as the Master/Captain, Chief Officer, and Chief Engineer) direct operations, enforce compliance, and oversee safety procedures. Junior officers, ratings, and specialized staff execute watchkeeping, maintenance, and operational tasks that keep the ship running 24/7.
This guide explains ship crew ranks, responsibilities, and departmental structure, helpful for maritime professionals, students, and anyone exploring careers at sea.
Key Departments on a Ship
Deck Department: Responsible for navigation, safety, and overall ship operation.
Engine Department: Focuses on maintaining and operating the ship's propulsion system and machinery.
Catering/Steward's Department: Handles hospitality services, including food preparation and housekeeping
Ship Officer Roles (Who Is an Officer?)
On a ship, officers are licensed or designated leaders responsible for safe operations, watchkeeping, and compliance. Officers manage people, procedures, and documentation, and they make operational decisions within their department.
Deck Officers (Navigation & Ship Operations)
Captain / Master: Overall command of the ship; final authority for safety, navigation, and compliance.
Chief Officer (Chief Mate): Second-in-command; leads deck operations, cargo planning, stability, and safety management.
Second Officer (2/O): Navigation officer; passage planning, charts/publications, voyage records, and bridge watch.
Third Officer (3/O): Safety officer; lifesaving/firefighting equipment, drills, security/environment tasks, and bridge watch.
Engine Officers (Machinery & Technical Operations)
Chief Engineer: Head of engine department; responsible for propulsion, power, maintenance strategy, and technical compliance.
Second Engineer (2/E): Runs day-to-day engine operations; supervises maintenance and engine-room routines.
Third Engineer (3/E): Handles auxiliary systems (generators, boilers, pumps), watchkeeping, and inspections.
Fourth Engineer (4/E): Often responsible for fuel/lube systems and specific machinery; supports watchkeeping and maintenance.
What Ship Officers Do (core responsibilities)
Maintain legal responsibility and compliance (SMS procedures, flag/class requirements).
Stand navigational/engineering watch to keep the ship operating 24/7.
Run safety management (drills, equipment readiness, risk checks).
Handle reporting & documentation (logs, inspections, permits, incident reporting).
Overview of Ship Crew Ranks
The hierarchy on a ship is clearly defined, with ranks corresponding to different levels of authority and responsibility.
Department | Rank/Role | Reports To | Key Responsibilities | Typical Watch/Shift |
Deck | Captain (Master) | Company/Owner | Overall command, safety, compliance | As required |
Deck | Chief Officer (Chief Mate) | Captain | Cargo ops, deck maintenance, safety drills | 4–8 / duty-based |
Deck | Second Officer (2/O) | Chief Officer/Captain | Passage planning, navigation records | 12–4 watch |
Deck | Third Officer (3/O) | Chief Officer | Safety equipment, bridge watch, drills | 8–12 watch |
Deck | Bosun | Chief Officer | Supervises deck ratings, maintenance | Day work |
Deck | AB / OS | Bosun | Watchkeeping, mooring, maintenance | Watch/Day work |
Engine | Chief Engineer | Captain | Engine dept leadership, machinery reliability | As required |
Engine | Second Engineer | Chief Engineer | Daily operations, main engine systems | Watch/Duty |
Engine | 3/E / 4/E | 2/E | Aux systems, fuel/lube, maintenance | Watch/Duty |
Engine | Oiler / Wiper | Engineers | Lubrication, cleaning, support tasks | Watch/Day work |
Steward | Chief Steward | Captain/Chief Officer | Catering operations, housekeeping | Duty-based |
Steward | Cook / Steward / Messman | Chief Steward | Meals, cleaning, welfare support | Duty-based |
Here is an overview of the typical ship crew positions, ranked by seniority within their respective departments.
Deck Department
Captain (Master)
The Captain, also known as the Master, is the highest-ranking officer on the ship and holds ultimate responsibility for the vessel, crew, and cargo. The Captain is accountable for the ship's overall operation, including navigation, safety, crew management, and compliance with international maritime laws. The Captain makes critical decisions, especially in emergencies, and reports to the shipowner or company.
Responsibilities:
Command and navigation of the vessel.
Ensure the safety of the crew, ship, and cargo.
Oversee legal and regulatory compliance (e.g., International Maritime Organization standards).m
Represent the ship in communications with port authorities, other ships, and the shipping company.
Oversee financial transactions related to the ship's operation.
Chief Officer (Chief Mate)
The Chief Officer, also known as the Chief Mate, is the second-in-command after the Captain and supervises the Deck Department. The Chief Officer is responsible for the ship's cargo operations, including loading and unloading and ensuring the cargo is safely stored. The Chief Mate also oversees the maintenance of the ship's structure and deck equipment.
Responsibilities:
Supervise cargo operations, ensuring safe loading, securing, and unloading.
Manage deck crew, assign tasks, and oversee their performance.
Conduct safety drills and ensure safety equipment is functional.
Assist the Captain in navigation and ship handling.
Take command of the ship in the Captain's absence.
3. Second Officer (Second Mate)
The Second Officer, or Second Mate, is responsible for the ship's navigation. This includes planning the route, monitoring the weather, and ensuring all navigational equipment functions correctly. The Second Mate also assists in cargo operations and deck maintenance.
Responsibilities:
Navigate the ship and plot routes using charts, GPS, and radar.
Monitor weather conditions and adjust the ship's course as needed.
Maintain and update nautical charts and records.
Assist in the supervision of deck operations and the safety of the crew.
4. Third Officer (Third Mate)
The Third Officer, also known as the Third Mate, is the junior-most officer in the Deck Department. They are responsible for safety, security, and environmental protection on board. The Third Officer is often on watch, monitoring the ship's course and surroundings to ensure safe navigation.
Responsibilities:
Stand watch on the bridge to ensure safe navigation.
Conduct safety inspections and maintain safety equipment.
Assist in cargo operations and deck maintenance.
Handle ship-to-ship and ship-to-shore communications.
5. Deck Cadet
The Deck Cadet is an officer-in-training who learns the various tasks and responsibilities of the Deck Department. Under the supervision of senior officers, cadets are trained in navigation, cargo operations, safety protocols, and other aspects of ship operation.
Responsibilities:
Assist senior officers in navigation, cargo handling, and deck operations.
Participate in safety drills and maintenance activities.
Learn and apply maritime rules, regulations, and procedures.
Stand watch under supervision.
6. Bosun (Boatswain)
The Bosun is the senior-most non-commissioned member of the Deck Department, responsible for overseeing the deckhands (Able Seamen and Ordinary Seamen) and ensuring that maintenance and repair tasks are carried out efficiently. The Bosun is also responsible for the ship's rigging and anchor handling.
Responsibilities:
Supervise and assign tasks to the deck crew.
Oversee maintenance of the ship's hull, deck, and equipment.
Operate and maintain deck machinery such as winches and cranes.
Assist in mooring, anchoring, and cargo operations.
7. Able Seaman (AB)
The Able Seaman (AB) is an experienced deckhand who performs a wide range of duties, from operating deck equipment to standing watch on the bridge. The AB plays a critical role in the ship's day-to-day maintenance and operation.
Responsibilities:
Stand watch on the bridge or deck to ensure safe navigation.
Perform maintenance tasks such as painting, cleaning, and repairing the ship's exterior.
Handle cargo operations, mooring, and anchoring duties.
Assist in safety drills and emergency procedures.
8. Ordinary Seaman (OS)
The Ordinary Seaman is an entry-level position in the Deck Department. The OS assists the Able Seaman and learns the ropes of ship operations. The OS performs basic maintenance tasks and supports the crew in all aspects of ship management.
Responsibilities:
Clean and maintain the deck and superstructure.
Assist in cargo operations, mooring, and anchoring.
Stand watch and perform lookout duties under the supervision of senior crew members.
Participate in safety drills and shipboard training.
Engine Department
The Engine Department maintains and operates the ship's propulsion systems, machinery, and other mechanical equipment. The department ensures that the ship runs smoothly, efficiently, and safely. Key positions in the Engine Department include:
Chief Engineer
The Chief Engineer is the head of the Engine Department and is responsible for the overall maintenance and operation of the ship's engines and mechanical systems. The Chief Engineer reports directly to the Captain and ensures that the boat is always in peak operating condition.
Responsibilities:
Oversee the operation and maintenance of the ship's engines, generators, and mechanical systems.
Manage the engineering crew and delegate tasks to ensure efficient operations.
Monitor fuel consumption and manage the ship's fuel and lubricants supply.
Troubleshoot and repair mechanical issues.
Ensure compliance with safety and environmental regulations.
2. Second Engineer
The Second Engineer is the Engine Department's second-in-command and supervises daily engine room operations. They typically handle the ship's propulsion system and ensure all equipment runs smoothly.
Responsibilities:
Monitor and operate the ship's main engines and auxiliary systems.
Perform routine maintenance on machinery and systems.
Supervise and train junior engineers and crew members.
Troubleshoot engine problems and assist the Chief Engineer in significant repairs.
3. Third Engineer
The Third Engineer is responsible for maintaining and operating the ship's auxiliary engines, boilers, and electrical systems. During designated watch periods, they often oversee the engine room.
Responsibilities:
Maintain auxiliary machinery, including pumps, compressors, and generators.
Stand watch in the engine room and monitor the performance of equipment.
Assisted with repairs and ensured that the engine room was clean and safe.
Perform regular inspections and report issues to the Chief Engineer.
4. Fourth Engineer
The Fourth Engineer manages the ship's fuel and lubrication systems. Depending on the ship's needs, they may also oversee the maintenance of specific machinery, such as pumps or refrigeration systems.
Responsibilities:
Monitor and maintain fuel and lubrication systems.
Conduct routine inspections and maintenance on specific machinery.
Stand watch in the engine room during their designated shifts.
Assist senior engineers with troubleshooting and repairs.
5. Engine Cadet
The Engine Cadet is an engineer-in-training, learning the operation and maintenance of the ship's mechanical systems under the guidance of senior engineers. Engine Cadets assist with basic tasks and gain practical experience.
Responsibilities:
Assist senior engineers in routine maintenance and repairs.
Learn how to operate the ship's engines, generators, and auxiliary systems.
Stand watch and monitor engine room equipment under supervision.
Participate in safety drills and training exercises.
6. Oiler
The Oiler is a skilled crew member who ensures the ship's machinery is adequately lubricated and running efficiently. Oilers work closely with engineers and assist in maintaining the ship's mechanical systems.
Responsibilities:
Lubricate engines, machinery, and equipment to ensure smooth operation.
Oilers assist engineers in maintaining and repairing the ship's mechanical systems. They play a crucial role in preventing mechanical breakdowns by ensuring all moving parts are properly lubricated.
Monitor engine room equipment while watching and report any issues.
Assist in routine maintenance tasks such as cleaning, tightening bolts, and replacing worn-out parts.
Support engineers in emergency repairs, particularly those involving the ship's propulsion systems.
7. Wiper
The Wiper is an entry-level position in the Engine Department. They are responsible for basic cleaning and maintenance tasks in the engine room. This position is often the starting point for those aspiring to become oilers or engineers.
Responsibilities:
Clean and maintain the engine room to ensure a safe working environment.
Assist oilers and engineers with basic mechanical tasks.
Monitor machinery and report any unusual noises, leaks, or malfunctions.
Participate in safety drills and engine room training.
Watchkeeping Explained (Bridge & Engine Watches)
Ships operate continuously, so crews use watchkeeping (shift duty) to ensure the ship is monitored and systems remain safe at all times. Watch schedules vary by company, ship type, manning, and voyage conditions.
Bridge Watch System (common 3-watch pattern)
12–4 Watch: 12:00–16:00 and 00:00–04:00
4–8 Watch: 04:00–08:00 and 16:00–20:00
8–12 Watch: 08:00–12:00 and 20:00–00:00
During a bridge watch, the officer on watch is responsible for:
safe navigation and collision avoidance,
monitoring weather/traffic,
maintaining course/speed, and
keeping bridge logs and communications.
Engine Room Watchkeeping (two common models)
Manned Watchkeeping (traditional): Engineers stand scheduled watches in the engine room (often similar rotating shifts) to monitor machinery continuously.
UMS – Unmanned Machinery Space: The engine room may not be continuously manned at night; instead, systems are monitored via alarms and control panels, with an engineer on call to respond immediately if alarms trigger.
Catering/Steward's Department
The Catering or Steward's Department is responsible for the crew's general well-being, providing food, housekeeping, and other services that contribute to the crew's and passengers' comfort. Key positions in this department include:
Chief Steward
The Chief Steward is the head of the Steward's Department and oversees all hospitality and housekeeping services aboard the ship. The Chief Steward ensures that the living quarters are clean, the galley operates efficiently, and meals are prepared to meet the needs of the crew and passengers.
Responsibilities:
Supervise the preparation and serving of meals to crew and passengers.
Oversee housekeeping tasks, including cleaning cabins, common areas, and facilities.
Manage food and supply inventories, ensuring enough stock for the voyage.
Coordinate with other departments to ensure the crew's living conditions are well-maintained.
Handle passenger services and ensure a comfortable environment.
2. Cook
The Cook is responsible for preparing meals for the crew and passengers. This role is vital, as it ensures the crew is well-fed, which is crucial for maintaining morale and productivity on long voyages.
Responsibilities:
Prepare and serve meals according to the dietary needs and preferences of the crew and passengers.
Planned menus and managed the stock of food supplies.
Maintain hygiene and cleanliness in the galley (kitchen) to comply with health standards.
Coordinate with the Chief Steward to ensure that meals are served on time.
Assisted with galley inventory management and ordered supplies when needed.
3. Steward
The Steward assists the Chief Steward and Cook in managing the living quarters and galley. They handle tasks such as serving food, cleaning, and ensuring the comfort of both crew and passengers.
Responsibilities:
Serve meals to crew and passengers, ensuring that dietary preferences are accommodated.
Clean and maintain the crew's living spaces, dining areas, and other communal areas.
Assist with meal preparation and cleanup in the galley.
Perform housekeeping duties, including changing linens and laundry and ensuring sanitation throughout the vessel.
Assist passengers by addressing their needs and ensuring a comfortable stay on board.
4. Messman (Galley Hand)
The Messman, also known as a Galley Hand, assists the Cook and Steward in preparing and serving meals and keeping the galley and dining areas clean. This position is often an entry-level role in the Steward's Department.
Responsibilities:
Assist the Cook with meal preparation and serving.
Clean and sanitize the galley, dining areas, and kitchen equipment.
Perform essential housekeeping duties, such as setting up tables and cleaning dishes.
Assisted with inventory management and replenished supplies as needed.
Help ensure the overall cleanliness and hygiene of food preparation areas.
Specialized Positions and Departments
Additional specialized roles may exist on larger vessels, such as cruise ships or research vessels. These positions can vary based on the ship's purpose and the specific services provided.
Medical Officer
On larger vessels, especially cruise ships, a Medical Officer or ship's doctor is responsible for the health and medical needs of the crew and passengers. They are trained to handle both routine medical care and emergencies that may arise while at sea.
Responsibilities:
Provide medical care to crew and passengers.
Administer first aid, treat illnesses, and handle medical emergencies.
Maintain medical supplies and ensure compliance with maritime health regulations.
Coordinate with shore-side medical facilities if further care is needed upon arrival at port.
2. Purser
The Purser is responsible for the ship's finances, including passenger billing, payroll, and managing the ship's goods inventory. On cruise ships, the Purser manages guest services and administrative duties.
Responsibilities:
Oversee the ship's financial operations, including cash handling and accounting.
Handle payroll and crew contracts.
Managed guest relations and provided concierge services for passengers.
Oversee the ship's supplies inventory and manage procurement processes.
3. Entertainment Staff (Cruise Ships)
On cruise ships, there is often a team of Entertainment Staff responsible for organizing activities, shows, and events for passengers. This team includes entertainers, activity directors, and event coordinators.
Responsibilities:
Plan and organize entertainment events such as live performances, games, and social activities.
Host and engage with passengers to ensure a positive experience.
Coordinate with other departments to schedule and facilitate events.
Ensure the safety and well-being of passengers during events and activities.
4. Deckhands and Specialty Crew (Research Vessels)
Research vessels often have specialized crew members who assist scientists and researchers. These crew members, including Marine Technicians and Research Assistants, may be responsible for deploying scientific instruments, collecting data, and maintaining research equipment.
Responsibilities:
Assist with scientific research operations, including deploying and retrieving instruments.
Maintain and repair specialized research equipment.
Support the research team by recording data and performing tasks related to research projects.
Ensure that the ship adheres to environmental and scientific protocols.
Conclusion
The operation of a ship is a highly coordinated and complex effort that depends on the cooperation and expertise of a diverse crew. Each crew member, from the Captain down to the entry-level deckhands and galley staff, plays a critical role in ensuring that the ship operates safely, efficiently, and smoothly. Understanding the responsibilities of each position is essential for those working in the maritime industry and anyone interested in how global shipping and seafaring function.
The maritime industry continues to evolve with technological advancements, regulations, and environmental standards. Crew members are responsible for operating their vessels and ensuring that operations are sustainable and compliant with global standards. Continuous training, certification, and skill development are critical to a successful maritime career.
Whether you aspire to command a vessel, maintain its engines, or provide hospitality services, each role within a ship's crew contributes to the overarching goal of keeping the ship, its cargo, and its people safe as it travels the world's oceans.
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FAQS About Ship Crew
What are the positions on a ship?
On a merchant ship, jobs are divided into three main departments: deck, engine, and catering. The deck department includes the Captain, officers, and deck ratings who handle navigation and cargo. The engine department has engineers and motormen who look after all machinery. The catering team manages food, housekeeping, and stores for everyone on board.
What is the hierarchy of a ship crew?
The ship crew hierarchy starts with the Captain at the top, who has full responsibility for the vessel and everyone on it. Below the Captain are the chief officers and engineers, followed by junior officers, cadets, and ratings. Each level reports to the level above and has clearly defined duties, which keeps work organized and safe at sea.
What are the ranks of seaman in order?
On the deck side, ranks usually start with Ordinary Seaman and Able Seaman, then move up to Bosun, Deck Cadet, Third Officer, Second Officer, Chief Officer, and finally Captain. In the engine room, ranks progress from wiper and oiler to engine cadet, fourth, third, second engineer, and Chief Engineer. This clear order helps everyone know their responsibilities and career path.
How to become a ship crew member?
To become a ship crew member, you usually need to finish school, pass a medical test, and complete basic safety training courses approved by maritime authorities. Many people join through diploma or degree programs in nautical science or marine engineering. After training, they join as cadets or ratings, gain sea experience, and then grow to higher ranks over time.
What is the salary of a ship crew?
Salary at sea depends on rank, experience, company, and vessel type. Junior ratings and fresh cadets earn less but still more than many shore jobs, while senior officers like Chief Officers, Captains, and Chief Engineers can earn several thousand dollars per month. Crew members often receive free food and accommodation on board, which helps them save more from their income.
What is the lowest rank for a seafarer?
The lowest rank on the deck side is usually Ordinary Seaman or Trainee Ordinary Seaman, who helps with basic deck work and maintenance. In the engine department, the lowest rank is often the wiper, who assists with simple cleaning and support tasks in the engine room. These entry-level roles allow newcomers to learn, gain sea time, and prepare for promotions.
What are crew members on a ship called?
Crew members on a ship are commonly called seafarers or seamen, and together they are known as the ship’s crew. The person in command is called the Captain or Master, while others are called officers, engineers, ratings, and catering staff depending on their duties. All of them work as a team to run the ship safely and efficiently.
Dushyant Bisht
Expert in Maritime Industry
Dushyant Bisht is a seasoned expert in the maritime industry, marketing and business with over a decade of hands-on experience. With a deep understanding of maritime operations and marketing strategies, Dushyant has a proven track record of navigating complex business landscapes and driving growth in the maritime sector.
Email: [email protected]