The allure of working abroad continues to attract many Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), driven by the promise of better income and career advancement. One of the highly sought-after positions on international vessels is that of an electrician, which offers both adventure and a stable career path.
If you are an OFW aspiring to become an electrician on an international vessel, this guide will walk you through the necessary steps and requirements, including the Electro Technical Rating (ETR) and Electro Technical Officer (ETO) qualifications.
How OFWs Can Become Electricians on International Vessels
This article is based on a YouTube video by NALDZ REPAIR VLOG. If you want to watch the full video, then click on the link below:
Understanding the Roles: ETR and ETO
Before diving into the specifics, it’s essential to understand the difference between an Electro Technical Rating (ETR) and an Electro Technical Officer (ETO). Both roles are crucial on a ship, with ETRs typically handling the maintenance and repair of electrical and electronic equipment under the supervision of an ETO, who oversees the entire electrical department. ETRs are considered the entry-level position in the electrical department, while ETOs hold a more senior, supervisory role.
Requirements for Electro Technical Rating (ETR)
To become an ETR, you need to meet certain requirements, including sea service and educational qualifications:
- Sea Service and Ship Propulsion Power: You must have experience on a seagoing ship with a propulsion power of 750 kW or more. For new graduates, it is advisable to start with inter-island vessels to gain the necessary sea service. The propulsion power of a vessel is a critical factor, as it ensures that the ship’s electrical systems are complex enough to provide meaningful experience.
- Educational Background:
- If you have a degree in Electrical Engineering (BSEE), Electronics Engineering (BSECE), or Industrial Technology (BSIT), you need 3 months of seagoing experience and an attestation of service signed by the captain or your company. This route is typically faster and more straightforward for graduates, as it leverages their academic background.
- If you are not a college graduate, you need to complete an ETR course and have 6 months of seagoing service. The ETR course is designed to equip you with the foundational knowledge and practical skills necessary for the job.
- Alternatively, you can have 12 months of seagoing service and an attestation of service signed by your company. This option is available for those who gain experience directly through employment without formal education.
- ETR Practical Assessment: Undergo a practical assessment at a Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) accredited center. The assessment costs around 245 USD. This practical assessment tests your ability to perform the duties of an ETR under real-world conditions. After passing the assessment, MARINA will issue your ETR Certificate of Proficiency (COP). This certificate is a crucial document that validates your qualifications.
- Application Process: You can apply online and upload the following requirements:
- Serving on a seagoing ship with 750 kW propulsion power.
- Practical assessment completion.
- Seaman’s book (SIRB) first page and entries.
- Valid medical certificate in PEME format.
- Sea service certificate from your agency.
Requirements for Electro Technical Officer (ETO)
The path to becoming an ETO involves more stringent requirements and a significant financial investment:
- Sea Service and Ship Propulsion Power: Similar to ETR, you must have experience on a seagoing ship with a propulsion power of 750 kW or more. This ensures that you have practical experience with the complexities of a ship’s electrical systems.
- Educational and Course Requirements:
- If you are a Registered Electrical Engineer (REE) or Electronics and Communications Engineer (ECE), you need 12 months of sea service. This route leverages your advanced educational background.
- Alternatively, you can complete an ETO course and have 12 months of sea service. The ETO course is comprehensive, covering advanced topics in marine electrical systems.
- With an ETO course and 6 months of sea service, you must also have a Training Record Book (TRB). The TRB documents your hands-on training and experiences.
- ETO Course: The ETO course is expensive, costing around 10,000 USD (approximately 550,000 pesos). However, several companies and agencies sponsor the ETO course, ensuring a placement on a vessel post-training. Some training centers also offer scholarships for qualified candidates, typically those under 25 years old. The high cost of the ETO course reflects the depth and breadth of the training provided, preparing you for the responsibilities of the role.
- Assessment and Certification: To obtain the ETO Certificate of Competency (COC), you must pass theoretical and practical assessments at MARINA-accredited centers. REE and ECE graduates are exempted from the theoretical examination. This exemption acknowledges their extensive academic training.
- Additional Requirements:
- Certificates of Proficiency in Basic Training (COP BT), Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boats (PSCRB), Advanced Fire Fighting (ATFF), and Medical First Aid (MEFA).
- Sea service certificate from your agency.
- Valid medical certificate in PEME format.
- Passport-sized photo with a white background in formal attire.
Upgrading from ETR to ETO
For those already holding an ETR qualification and seeking to upgrade to ETO, the following are required:
- Structured Training: Complete at least 8 months of structured ETO onboard training documented in an approved TRB. This structured training ensures that you gain the necessary skills and knowledge under supervision.
- Extended Sea Service: Alternatively, you can have not less than 32 months of seagoing service in the engine department documented by company certification. This extended service demonstrates your extensive practical experience.
- Updating Course: If you complete an approved ETO updating course, you need not less than 36 months of seagoing service as an electrician. This updating course helps you stay current with technological advancements and industry practices.
Pursuing a career as an electrician on an international vessel offers a lucrative and exciting opportunity for OFWs. With the right qualifications and training, you can embark on a fulfilling journey that combines technical expertise with the adventure of life at sea. Always ensure to stay updated with MARINA regulations and seek guidance from accredited training centers to enhance your career prospects. By following these steps and meeting the necessary requirements, you can achieve your goal of becoming an ETR or ETO and contribute to the global maritime industry.