Classifications of Maritime Crew Members
On vessels, seamen operate within different ranks. Offshore worker classifications help further the mission of the vessel by giving crew members specific duties and responsibilities. Crew members are primarily placed into four different departments: the deck department, the engineering department, the steward's department, and "other."
Below, we explain the classification of crew members within each department.
Steward’s Department
The Steward’s Department manages and maintains the eating and living spaces on the ship.
Steward’s Assistant/Messman
Often the first step in the steward’s department, a messman (also called a steward’s assistant) supports the chief steward and chief cook by setting up meals, cleaning galley spaces, and handling linen service. This entry-level role gives workers the sea time and food-service experience required to advance to certified cook positions.
Chief Cook
This individual is a senior unlicensed crew member in the steward's department. He or she oversees the preparation and serving of the meals, as well as ensures that operations meet scheduled serving times, similar to a cook in a restaurant. The chief cook may also be responsible for designing the menu, purchasing necessary ingredients, and more. They also must oversee the cleanliness of the kitchen to avoid bacteria buildup, preventing unnecessary illness aboard the ship.
Chief Steward
The chief steward is responsible for instructing and managing personnel, preparing meals, ensuring cleanliness, and overseeing inventory control. While a chief steward wears an officer's uniform, the are not a licensed Merchant Marine officer.
Engineering Department
This team collectively monitors and repairs all mechanical and electrical systems on the ship.
Electro-Technical Officer (ETO)
The ETO is a licensed specialist who maintains all electronic, automation, and computer-based systems, from dynamic positioning controls to radar and engine-room monitoring consoles. Modern offshore vessels rely heavily on ETOs to diagnose faults that pure mechanical engineers may not be trained to resolve.
Oiler/Motorman (QMED)
Qualified Members of the Engine Department (QMEDs), such as oilers and motormen, perform routine watch-standing, record machinery parameters, and carry out preventive lubrication of pumps, generators, and main engines. Their log entries form the backbone of an accurate maintenance program.
Pumpman
Common on tankers and MODUs, the pumpman oversees cargo and ballast pumps, stripping systems, and associated valves. Proper line-up prevents dangerous pressure surges and unintended product transfers—a critical safety task during loading, discharge, or well-control operations.
Engineering Cadet
An individual ranked as an engineering cadet is a trainee engineer officer who reports to the second engineer. They are responsible for observing, learning, and helping however they can. They cannot hold their own watch but can assist other engineers with theirs. They are on board in order to prepare themselves for a future career in the engineering department.
Fourth Engineer
Crew members classified as fourth engineer or third assistant engineers are the most junior marine engineers aboard. They are responsible for electrical, sewage treatment, oily water separation systems, and more. Some academies have four-year programs that lead to a Bachelor of Science in Marine Engineering Technology and a Coast Guard-issued license as a third assistant engineer.
Third Engineer
Individuals ranked as third engineers (also known as second assistant engineers) are responsible for overseeing boilers, fuel, auxiliary engines, and more. Should the third engineer hold a Person in Charge (PIC) endorsement, they may also be responsible for fueling and bunkering.
Second Engineer
Second engineers (also called first assistant engineers) report directly to the chief engineer and are licensed members of the engineering department. They are responsible for supervising the daily maintenance and operation of the engine department, which includes refrigeration systems, main engines, and more. They are also responsible for preparing the engine room for arrival, departure, and standby. For this reason, second engineers are usually some of the busiest people on a vessel.
Chief Engineer
The chief engineer is a licensed mariner and the highest-ranked crew member in the engineering department. They are usually referred to as "The Chief." They are responsible for overseeing all operations and maintenance of the ship's engineering equipment. The chief engineer may also be responsible for compiling an inventory, overseeing all major maintenance, and even preparing the engine room for inspection by authorities.
Deck Department
The Deck Department serves numerous functions, mainly taking charge of safely receiving, discharging, and storing the ship’s cargo.
Ordinary Seaman
Individuals classified as ordinary seamen (OS) are unlicensed, entry-level deck department workers. They help with the general operation and upkeep of the deck department. OS are required to work a specific amount of time to acquire "sea time" before they are permitted to become certified as able seamen.
Able Seaman
Crew members classified as able seamen (AB) are deck department members who possess a mariner's document. They must have specific training and experience, and they must meet specific requirements, such as passing a medical exam, serving at least six months, and more.
Radio Officer/GMDSS Operator
While many watch officers are now cross-trained, some vessels still carry a dedicated Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) radio operator. They monitor emergency channels, maintain satellite comms equipment, and ensure compliance with SOLAS alerting requirements.
Boatswain
These are senior crew members responsible for all components of the vessel's hull.
Deck Cadet
Seafarers ranked as a deck cadet are officers under training. They are trained in navigation, ship and cargo handling, as well as maritime law. They report to the chief officer and help the deck officers while also observing and learning from them.
Third Officer
The third officer, also known as the third mate, is responsible for overseeing the safety of the ship and the crew. They are the fourth-in-command aboard the ship.
Second Officer
As third-in-command, the second officer or second mate is in charge of the navigation of the ship and serves as the ship's navigation officer.
Chief Officer
The chief officer (also known as the first mate or chief mate) is the leader of the ship's deck department and is second-in-command of the entire vessel. Their responsibilities are varied and include a vessel's cargo operations, stability, and deck crew supervision. They are also responsible for the ship's safety and security and are in charge of training crews and cadets. Should the master be absent or incapacitated, the chief officer will take command of the ship.
Captain/Master
The highest-ranked officer on board a vessel is known as either its captain or the master. They are responsible for the day-to-day operations of the vessel and ensure that all departments are running smoothly.
Medical/Other
Ship’s Medic/Medical Officer
Larger offshore installations carry a certified medic or nurse who runs the sick bay, conducts health inspections, and stabilizes injuries until helicopter medevac or port transfer. They also keep medical stores in line with the International Medical Guide for Ships.
Protecting the Rights of All Crew Members
Whether you’re a messman making coffee before dawn or a chief engineer signing the engine-room log, maritime law makes one promise: you are entitled to a safe workplace and a seaworthy vessel. The Jones Act, general maritime law, and the doctrine of unseaworthiness do not distinguish between ranks or departments—they protect everyone on board.
All types of maritime and offshore crew members are entitled to:
- Safe Working Conditions: Owners must maintain equipment, correct hazardous procedures, and provide adequate staffing and training.
- Seaworthy Vessels: A ship (or offshore platform) must be properly designed, built, and maintained so every piece of gear—from lifeboat hooks to engine governors—functions as intended.
- Full Compensation After Injury: If negligence or an unseaworthy condition leads to harm, the injured seafarer may recover lost wages, daily living costs and medical expenses (maintenance and cure), and damages for pain, suffering, and future earnings, regardless of job title.
When companies cut corners, every crew member pays the price. If you or someone you love was hurt offshore, assert your rights. Speak with an experienced maritime attorney who knows how to hold shipowners, operators, and manufacturers accountable—so the deckhand and the captain alike can do their jobs without sacrificing their futures.
