Chief Mate is a licensed mariner who has overall command and control of the navigation, manoeuvring, cargo handling, stowage, communications and safe handling of the ship. He/She ensures that the ship complies with the local and international laws, as well as the port state and flag state policies. Chief Mate oversees operations and maintenance of all on-board equipment including machinery, engines and safety equipment and monitors the daily progress of the vessel to complete the voyage in a most efficient manner.
Chief Mate must adhere to the budget assigned for the voyage, and he/she is responsible for delivering the cargo safely. He/She oversees the crew in their tasks, monitoring the performance of all the crew and coordinating their work to ensure the voyage is completed. In the event of emergencies, the Ship Captain oversees search and rescue operations.
Chief Mate is an organised person with a strong eye for detail, and is astute to ascertain reasons why the vessel may not be seaworthy. He/She takes initiative and is able to work independently to resolve any problems effectively in the open sea. Chief Mate must pass the requirements of a colour vision test and must fulfil the requirements stipulated in the Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers issued by the International Maritime Organisation.
~ To manage cargo calculations based on ullages, deadweight scale and the equipment on board to determine trim and stability in port and while handling cargo on location.
~ To supervise loading , unloading and ballasting.
~ To stand navigation, port and anchor watches as per watch rotation agreed on.
~ To compose and execute a Passage Plan as agreed with the Master..
~ To Maintain up-to-date all charts,nautical publications as well as maitenance of administration related thereto. To maintain the Official Log Book.
~ To carry out all duties of the designated Safety Officer on board.
~ To supervise safety and vessel familiarisation round for all Company fleet personnel joining the vessel according to the Induction Guide List and co-ordinate on-the-job
~ To manage the HSE Committee, prepare a monthly Record of the HSE Committee Meeting.
~ To maintain all mooring,towing, anchor handling and lifting ropes, wires, shackles, slings and other gears as well as lifing appliances in safe and fully certified condition.
~ To maintain in a fully operational condition as per Safety Plan all Life Saving Appliance (LSA) and Fire Fighting Appliances (FFA) including record-keeping.
~ To manage and update the Planned Maintenance System (PMS) nautical/deck database on vessels with a computerised PMS.
~ To prepare a hand over report for the relieving Chief Mate and discuss details.
~ To supervise the Garbage Management Plan and maintain up-to-date the Garbage Disposal Logbook.
~ To keep the Medical Locker and Medical Logbook updated and ensures proper records of any medicines given and timely replenishment is arranged in liaison with and appointed by the Master.
