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Qualified Marine Engineer Officer (RFA)
Job Role

Qualified Marine Engineer Officer (RFA)

You’ll provide the ship’s power that delivers vital logistical and operational support to the Royal Navy, all over the world.

TechnologyWeaponsCiviliansEngineeringManagement
  • MCA Certified
  • Royal Fleet Auxiliary
  • Engineering
  • Officer level

At a glance

You’ll provide the power we need to deliver vital worldwide logistical and operational support. Without you, the crucial work of the RFA would grind to a halt. It’s an engineering career of the utmost importance.
Marine Engineer Officer inspecting equipment
I maintain and operate all of the machinery on board RFA Argus. I’ve picked up loads of qualifications along the way, and done some really memorable things, including providing humanitarian relief after Hurricane Katrina.

Jack

Marine Engineer Officer

Role details

What you’ll do

As a Qualified Marine Engineer Officer in the Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA), you’ll provide the power we need to deliver vital logistical and operational support to the Royal Navy, wherever they are in the world. Without you, the crucial work of the RFA would grind to a halt. It’s an engineering career of the utmost importance, where you’ll oversee work on some of our largest-scale kit.

Your role

  • Wherever you’re stationed, you’ll be responsible for specific mechanical systems, mentoring and providing guidance for your ratings.
  • If you like getting your hands dirty, you’ll enjoy the satisfaction that comes from finding innovative solutions to the most complex mechanical problems.
  • Work towards the same MCA certification that you would in any merchant navy, but with the additional responsibility that comes from powering the engines that fuel our ships.
  • Become an expert in a mix of diesel-electric, slow and medium speed diesel propulsion systems, as you work across the RFA fleet. 

Pay & benefits

  • Earn a starting salary of over £37,500
  • Earned Voyage Leave (EVL) of 21 days for every month spent on board ship
  • Membership of a Civil Service Pension scheme 
  • World-class training
  • Potential to travel the world

Skills for life

Qualifications you'll gain

  • A streamlined path to becoming a Chartered Engineer
  • MCA certification that is financially supported by the RFA

Skills you'll develop

  • An in-depth knowledge of Marine Engineering principles
  • The ability to lead and manage a highly skilled team
     

 

Eligibility

  • Aged at least 17 years 6 months to apply, and 18 years to commence employment. There is no upper age limit
  • HND, or higher, in Marine Engineering
  • ENG1 medical certificate, unrestricted for worldwide sea service
  • The certificate of competency you have will determine which level you enter the RFA. You must have one of the following: Officer of the Watch (unlimited); Second Engineer (unlimited); Chief Engineer (unlimited)
  • Four elements of basic training, updated iaw Manila Convention 2010
  • Personal Survival Techniques (STCW Code-Table A-Vl/1-1)
  • Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW Code-Table A-Vl/1-2)
  • Elementary First Aid (STCW Code-Table A-Vl/1-3)
  • Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities (STCW Code-Table A-Vl/1-4)
  • Must be British, Irish or Commonwealth citizens. However, a number of career paths have nationality restrictions. Dual Nationality will be considered providing the first nationality is British. Note: Residency restrictions may apply
 

Skills & Interests

  • An ability to thrive on responsibility and lead from the front
  • Confidence making key decisions in high-pressure situations
  • A problem solver, with a common sense approach, who can work well as part of a team
  • A love of all things mechanical

Joining Process

From picking your role to starting on your first day, these are the steps you'll take to join as a rating.

Got a question?

Our virtual recruiter is available to answer your questions 24 hours a day

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