The SHIP'S QMED assists the Chief Engineer and First Assistant Engineer(s) in the operation, maintenance and repair of propulsion and auxiliary mechanical and electrical equipment in ocean going motor vessels.

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES

This is an entry-level position intended as an opportunity to provide training and experience toward a Qualified Member of the Engineering Department (QMED) endorsement or an Engineering License. This class is distinguished from the Assistant Engineer level by a higher level of supervision and the training that will be provided to the incumbent. The position is temporary with the expectation that the incumbent will progress after earning appropriate USCG endorsements or licenses.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The duties below are not inclusive but characteristic of the type of work associated with the class. Individual positions may do all or some combination of the duties listed below as well as other related duties.

1. Watch Standing. In the engine-room, routinely checks machinery and equipment, with constant checks of cooling water and lubricating oil pressures and temperatures, fuel consumption, and abnormal operation conditions. Notifies Chief Engineer of unusual conditions. Maintains machinery log and records.
2. Equipment Operation. Assists licensed engineers in taking on fuel and water. Monitors fuel and water consumption, operates shipboard equipment such as pumps, engines, winches, hydraulic systems, air compressors, sewage systems, etc.
3. Equipment Maintenance. Assists licensed engineers in the maintenance of engines and auxiliary equipment of an ocean going vessel by performing regular maintenance such as lubrication, cleaning and minor adjustments. Assists with repairs as required to keep equipment operational.
4. Miscellaneous Activities. Assists in emergency duties required of all shipboard employees including fire fighting, first aid and CPR.

RELATIONSHIP WITH OTHERS

Employees in this class have regular contact with research scientists and students while at sea. All other contact is with the ship's crew or Ship Operations personnel. Duties are assigned and completed on board the ship.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

Employees in this class receive general supervision and training from the Chief Engineer or the Port Engineer. Repair and maintenance work is directed by senior engineering personnel and checked upon completion. Engineering logs are reviewed daily to assure that assigned checks and inspections are completed and scheduled maintenance is conducted. Work is evaluated frequently for adherence to direction provided, written procedures and generally accepted marine engineering practices.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Positions in the class are found on oceangoing vessels conducting research at sea for extended periods of time. They require the willingness and ability to work within the environment associated with the position's location. Environmental factors include the motion of the vessel; wearing of safety equipment including ear and eye protection, exposure to noise, heat, cold and weather; and working with fuels, lubricants, cleaners and other chemicals.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Mechanical aptitude and basic knowledge of engines, pumps, compressors, hydraulics and other mechanical and electrical systems commonly found on ships
• Ability to use basic hand tools
• Mechanical training or experience such as high school or vocational training in machine shop, auto mechanics, etc.; experience in a machine shop, engine repair shop or similar experience with machinery on fishing vessels or in the Navy/Coast Guard
• Current STCW certificate, or the ability to successfully complete training within 6 months
• Current passport, or the ability to obtain
• Meet Coast Guard drug testing requirements
• US Merchant Mariner Document endorsed Wiper or higher
• Ability to speak, read and write English

Revised May 2004