Engine Room Artificer Job Description and Types

As an engine room artificer, you'll be responsible for maintaining and repairing the mechanical systems that power a ship. This includes everything from the engines to the pumps and valves.

Engine room artificers are skilled technicians who work with a variety of complex equipment. They need to be able to diagnose problems quickly and efficiently, and have the skills to make repairs on the spot.

In the Royal Navy, there are two main types of engine room artificers: those who specialize in mechanical engineering and those who specialize in electrical engineering. Both types require a high level of technical expertise and attention to detail.

An Engine Room Artificer is a highly trained professional with a deep understanding of a ship's engineering equipment. They have completed a 4-year apprenticeship in conjunction with Fás, earning an internationally recognised qualification.

To become an Engine Room Artificer, one must initially apply for an apprenticeship through the Defence Forces Tech Trainee Scheme. This is an open opportunity for individuals from any branch.

The training process involves completing various courses, each with its own prerequisites and outcomes. Here's an overview of the courses:

* Dependant on passing out of Potential NCO’s Course and Rank Vacancy

** Dependant on passing out of Standard NCO’s Course and Rank Vacancy

*** Dependant on passing out of Senior NCO’s Course or Holding of Class 2 Certificate (Group / Intermediate Certificate/ Junior Certificate Military equivalent) and Rank Vacancy

Engine room artificers are skilled engineers who specialize in maintaining and repairing the complex systems that power ships. They require technical expertise in mechanical and electrical systems, as well as problem-solving skills to diagnose and fix faults.

To become an engine room artificer, you'll need a degree in marine or mechanical engineering, or a relevant qualification such as a HETAC Level 7 degree or a FAS/Solas Standard Based Craft. These qualifications demonstrate your knowledge of mechanical and electrical systems, and your ability to work with complex machinery.

Engine room artificers work closely with engineering teams to ensure operational efficiency and safety compliance, and they're responsible for conducting planned maintenance and defect rectification on propulsion, electrical, and fluid systems. They also maintain accurate records of maintenance, repairs, and part replacements.

Here are some of the qualifications that are recognized as equivalent to the required degrees or qualifications:

Engine room artificers play a critical role in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of ships, and their work requires a high level of technical expertise and problem-solving skills.