2nd Officer

Job description

Position Summary

The 2nd Officer is a licensed watchkeeping officer responsible for the safe navigation and operation of the vessel. They stand their own watch, primarily during daytime and evening hours when senior officers are available, provided they are deemed fit and competent by the Master. The 2nd Officer ensures adherence to safety, security, and environmental protocols and assists with navigation, safety equipment, and safety training.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

All duties and responsibilities are to be performed in accordance with Royal Caribbean Group's The Royal Way , SQM standards, USPH guidelines, environmental, and safety policies. Employees may be required to perform functions across various service venues and throughout the ship. In accordance with Royal Caribbean’s Anchored in Excellence philosophy, each employee conducts themselves professionally and courteously at all times, engaging positively with guests and crew members.

Watchkeeping & Navigation

Have a thorough understanding of the Safety and Quality Management program, including responsibilities within the safety organization according to the emergency plan and station bill. Ensure compliance with safety, security, and environmental regulations, observing alarm and indicator panels continuously. Conduct safety rounds as per master’s standing orders. Report significant events immediately to the Master and/or Staff Captain; act on initiatives if necessary.

When giving orders to the engine room, ensure they are appropriate; consult with the Master if time permits; record all actions in the logbook. Maintain discipline on the bridge and ensure all watchkeeping personnel perform their duties properly.

Port & Mooring Operations

Maintain radio contact with gangway security and monitor port operations. Supervise mooring shifts and be alert for strong winds or other conditions that may affect the ship’s moorings, notifying senior officers as necessary.

Tender Operations

Be prepared to operate tenders and establish safe, secure passenger and crew transfer procedures, following chapter 7 procedures.

Navigation & Safety Procedures

Familiarize with and strictly follow Navigation Policy & Procedures, Standard Operating Procedures, and Master’s Standing Orders. Ensure adequate rest hours in compliance with STCW and report any issues affecting rest or alertness immediately. Conduct weekly and monthly inspections of watertight doors, fire screens, and safety equipment, logging all tests, drills, and defects. Supervise testing of fire and watertight doors, ensuring proper operation and maintenance.

Participate in crew safety drills and training, organizing regular safety education sessions with the Chief Officer Safety and other officers.

Other Responsibilities

Attend meetings, training, and other work-related activities as required. Perform any additional duties assigned by supervisors or management.

Qualifications

Minimum Hiring & Licensing Requirements: Valid Nav. Watch Officer License (OOW) Without Limitations, conforming to all international and national regulations. Completion of all required regulatory and company training as listed in the Training, License, & Certificates Requirements Matrix.

Internal Candidate Requirements

Completion of at least one full contract with a performance rating of satisfactory or above.

Language Requirements

Ability to speak English clearly, distinctly, and cordially with guests. Proficiency in reading and writing English to interpret procedures, instructions, and communicate effectively with guests, supervisors, and co-workers. Additional languages such as Spanish, French, or German are preferred.

Physical & Visual Requirements

Regularly required to stand, walk, handle equipment, reach, talk, hear, and smell. Frequently or continually lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Vision abilities include close, distance, color, peripheral, and depth perception, with the ability to adjust focus. Must be physically capable of participating in emergency life-saving procedures and drills, including handling lifeboats, with full use of arms, legs, and sensory functions.