A chief engineer is the most senior engine officer of an engine department on a ship, and is ultimately responsible for leading that department.
This qualification will give you the knowledge and skills to carry out the duties of chief engineer.
You'll be able to work as chief engineer on vessels with inboard engines with propulsion power up to 3000 kilowatts within the exclusive economic zone (EEZ), or on vessels with outboard engines with unlimited propulsion within the EEZ. You may also find a role as an assistant under the direct supervision of the chief engineer.
This qualification is applicable to the engine room of a vessel up to 80 metres long with propulsion power up to 3000 kilowatts.
Choose a WA TAFE college that delivers this course
To find out more about doing this course at a WA TAFE college, select one of the TAFEs listed below to read their course descriptions. You'll also be able to see at which TAFE campus/es the course is delivered.
If you would like further information such as when the course is available and how to enrol, and details of course fees, or if you have questions about how the course is delivered, please follow the Find out more link to go to the TAFE's website where you will find full course details and contact information so that you can speak to the TAFE directly.
Combine your passion for machines and engines with the marine industry and pursue your career as a chief engineer or second engineer on a vessel.
Be guided by our team of expert lecturers as you gain extensive practical experience in knowledge of marine systems and machinery as well as naval architecture. You’ll learn shipboard safety from fire prevention and firefighting to operating survival craft, providing first aid, and leadership techniques.
We also offer courses that have been approved by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) in accordance with the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW) and the International Maritime Organisation (IMO).
On completion of this Diploma, you’ll become eligible to apply for your certificate of competency engineer class 3 (near coastal) and gain the licensing to become a chief engineer or second engineer on appropriate ships in Australian waters.
Please visit the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) website(opens in a new tab) for details regarding required sea service and additional requirements.
Study in specialist facilities
Situated in the port city of Fremantle, the SM TAFE Fremantle campus includes some of the most comprehensive facilities for maritime training in the country, with advanced training equipment and highly experienced and qualified lecturing staff. SM TAFE’s maritime training integrates simulator technology, a fleet of three vessels, biological and computing laboratories, along with engineering, seamanship and aquaculture workshops.
You can learn real-world skills in the ship, bridge and engineering simulator training suite and become job ready for your role. The technology used features the most advanced mathematical modelling and shipping databases in the world and the hardware replicates the current equipment installed on seagoing ships.
The information presented on the course lists within this website is provided to the Department of Training and Workforce Development by the WA TAFE colleges and private training providers, and is offered as a guide only. It is updated regularly, however some changes to details may occur in between updates. You should always contact the TAFE or private training provider directly to confirm details and/or ask questions.