Job Description:

Job Summary:
The Second Officer is a licensed deck officer responsible for navigation watchkeeping, voyage planning support, and maintaining navigational safety equipment onboard a container vessel. The role ensures the vessels safe passage in compliance with international maritime regulations and company procedures.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Stand navigational watches as assigned (usually 12–4 watch)

  • Maintain and update nautical charts, publications, and electronic navigation systems (ECDIS)

  • Assist with voyage planning and passage monitoring

  • Ensure proper operation and testing of navigational and bridge equipment

  • Maintain records related to navigation and bridge operations

  • Assist with cargo watchkeeping and port operations as required

  • Support the Chief Officer in safety management and compliance tasks

  • Actively participate in emergency drills and response procedures

  • Ensure compliance with COLREGs, SOLAS, and company SMS

Requirements & Qualifications:

  • Valid Officer of the Watch (OOW) / Second Officer Certificate of Competency

  • STCW certification (including BRM/BTM and ECDIS where applicable)

  • Valid Seafarers Medical Certificate

  • Previous sea time as an OOW preferred

  • Strong knowledge of navigation, COLREGs, and bridge procedures

  • Good leadership, communication, and decision-making skills

  • Ability to work under pressure in a 24/7 operational environment

Working Environment:

  • Merchant / Container Vessel

  • International crew

  • Long voyages and rotational contracts

Working Place:

Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa