1. Deck Staff
Those responsible for the overall operation of the ship are usually long term employees with specialist maritime qualifications and ample experience. Captain, Staff Captain, First, Second, Third and Junior Third Officers are responsible for day to day operation and management.
Additionally, Radio Officers take care of all communications while Bosuns oversee general maintenance and tendering processes. Security Officers and Safety Officers have fairly self-explanatory roles, with military experience often preferred for the security roles and maritime qualifications for the safety roles.
Seamen are responsible for general maintenance, cleaning and painting. Unskilled positions are usually available. Other positions for which no or little prior experience is needed are Carpenter and Deck Attendants, who keep the open decks in order.
2. Engine Staff
The Chief Engineer, First, Second, Third Engineers are collectively responsible for the technical operations of the ship, including electrical, mechanical and engineering systems. Maritime qualifications and solid experience are required.
The Motorman maintains and cleans engine parts, while the Fitter does the same for engines and mechanical equipment. These roles require maritime qualifications and experience. The Wiper cleans the engine room, organises tools, and completes any painting required. This is an entry level position.
The Chief Electrician and Electrician oversee the ship's entire electrical system and are required to have maritime qualifications and experience. The Chief Air Conditioning Technician and Air Conditioning Technician maintain and repair all air conditioning and refrigeration systems, under direction of the Chief Engineer. Maritime qualifications and experience are needed.
Fire-fighters need to have the relevant certification. Plumbers maintain and repair all plumbing, and need to have relevant experience. Upholsterers, who maintain furniture, are often entry level positions.