As a Marine Engineering Officer (MEO) you are responsible for the “float and move” functions of an RNZN warship. You will be responsible for the training, welfare and management of up to 35 personnel to ensure all propulsion, power generation and auxiliary systems are maintained, operated correctly, and are available to command when required. You are also required to liaise closely with other senior officers onboard to assist in tasks such as overseas deployment preparations, the ordering of the ships fuel, and liaison with foreign port authorities regarding maritime pollution regulations. You are required to display exceptional leadership qualities throughout your duties as the MEO and report directly to the Commanding Officer.
 

Job on Base

Marine Engineers also carry out a range of important roles ashore - from training our personnel to designing and testing the technology of the future. Examples include: managing complex engineering projects; equipment upgrades, trials and acquisition; equipment repair and maintenance; and budget control. Navy engineers are involved in equipment assessment, installation design, installation and operational testing from a very early stage in their careers. This provides them with the competencies to manage complex engineering projects involving of millions of dollars. You will also have the opportunity to complete peacekeeping missions, overseas postings and be involved in areas such as training, human resources and Defence Force recruiting.
 

Job on Deployment

As a fully qualified Marine Engineer Officer (MEO) on board a ship, you will be directly responsible to the Commanding Officer for the Marine Engineering department. You are responsible for the Ship’s ‘float and move’ capability and ensuring that all engineering plant and equipment is correctly operated and maintained. This includes: diesel engines, gas turbines, electrical power and distribution systems, machinery control and monitoring systems, hydraulic and pneumatic systems, refrigeration and air conditioning plant, the hull, structures and internal fittings amongst many others.
 

Career Progression

Your hard work, experience and training accomplishments as a Marine Engineer Officer are rewarded by promotions in rank and salary. If you are joining with a relevant tertiary qualification, this is recognised by a four year ‘jump start’ in your career and you will be promoted to Sub-Lieutenant upon completion of Junior Officer Common Training (JOCT). The time before sitting the Marine Engineer Officer Charge Qualification (MCQ) and becoming a fully qualified MEO will involve a variety of training courses and on-the-job training both at sea and in shore establishments.
 

Qualifications

You can join the Navy after you have completed (or partially completed) a suitable tertiary engineering qualification. The navy has two scholarship schemes for university students studying towards a BE, BEng Tech or Diploma. Or, if you are a student with good school grades and suitable potential, you can join through the Salaried scheme where you’ll be sponsored through your tertiary qualification and paid a salary at the same time. At a later stage in your career (post MCQ qualification) you have the option of completing a Masters in Engineering through Portsmouth University. In addition, during your career you will also receive qualifications towards becoming a professional chartered engineer with (IMarEST).

Careers in the Navy are well-rewarded, as well as being diverse and exciting. As you become more experienced and move up through the ranks, gaining additional skills and qualifications, you will see your salary rise accordingly.

While undertaking Officer Training you will hold the Rank of  Midshipman (see attached pay table). On graduation from your commissioning course your rank and pay will increase based on your trade speciality and qualification level.

• You must be at least 17 years of age.
• Meet the citizenship & security requirements to gain SV security clearance for this trade.
• You must be free of any criminal convictions.
   

Don’t meet minimum requirements?

• You must have completed at least three years at secondary school.
• You must have a minimum of 80 credits at level three over five subjects.
• You must have a minimum of 14 credits at level one Mathematics.
• You must have a minimum of 14 credits at level two or above in English.
• A BE, BEng Tech, or DIP Eng is offered.
• For those officers wishing to gain a BE, a minimum of 18 credits in Calculus, 18 credits in Physics and 18 credits in English at level 3 is required.

Or

• A degree in Engineering, Science or Technology with majors in Mechanical, Mechatronics, Electrical or Aeronautical Engineering. Depending on your experience we may consider you application if you have a Level 6 diploma in Engineering (Mechanical, Maintenance, Production, Electrical or Aeronautical).

Find out more information on the university schemes we offer

You must be medically fit for service.

The Navy has a year for year return of service scheme. Therefore, if the Navy pays for one year of your tertiary qualification then you will have to give one years return of service on completion of the qualification. If they pay for two years you will have to give two years return of service and so on.

Predominantly Devonport Naval Base but as a Marine Engineering Officer you can be called upon to go anywhere in New Zealand and abroad.