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Watchkeeping Officer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

2nd Officer 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 ...

2nd Officer 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 ...

The 3rd Officer may work independently or as part of the bridge team, performing watchkeeping, safety checks, and administrative tasks while adhering to Safety, Quality and Environmental standards.

The 3 rd Assistant Engineer coordinates with the Chief Engineer, 1 st and 2 nd Assistant Engineers, Watchkeeping Engineers, Electrician, Chief Officer or any other personnel necessary for the safe ...

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Watchkeeping Officer information

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$23.5K

$75.9K

$182.5K

How much do watchkeeping officer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for watchkeeping officer in the United States is $75,929.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,000.00 and $98,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a watchkeeping officer?

Watchkeeping Officers, also known as deck officers, are licensed seafarers responsible for the safe navigation and operation of a ship while on watch. Their duties include monitoring the vessel’s course, speed, and position, ensuring compliance with maritime regulations, and overseeing safety and security during their assigned shifts. They also manage communication with other ships and shore stations, and may supervise crew members on watch. Watchkeeping Officers play a crucial role in preventing accidents at sea and maintaining the smooth running of the vessel.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a watchkeeping officer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Watchkeeping Officer, you need a solid understanding of navigation, maritime regulations, and ship operations, usually acquired through a maritime academy degree and a Certificate of Competency (CoC). Familiarity with electronic chart display and information systems (ECDIS), radar, and other navigational aids is crucial for safe vessel operation. Strong situational awareness, decision-making, and teamwork skills help you respond effectively to changing conditions and coordinate with crew members. These abilities are critical for ensuring vessel safety, regulatory compliance, and smooth ship operations at sea.

What are the main challenges watchkeeping officers face during long voyages, and how can they prepare for them?

Watchkeeping Officers often encounter challenges such as fatigue from irregular shift patterns, maintaining situational awareness during adverse weather, and effectively coordinating with multinational crews. To prepare, it's important to develop strong time-management and communication skills, stay informed on safety procedures, and prioritize rest during off-duty hours. Proactive engagement with training and regular drills also helps ensure readiness for emergencies and fosters teamwork on board.

What is the difference between Watchkeeping Officer vs Marine Engineer?

AspectWatchkeeping OfficerMarine Engineer
CredentialsSTCW certifications, maritime licensesSTCW certifications, engineering licenses
Work EnvironmentBridge, navigation areasEngine room, machinery spaces
Industry UsageShipping, maritime navigationShip propulsion, maintenance
Common Search IntentNavigation duties, watch schedulesEngine maintenance, systems repair

While both roles are vital on ships and require STCW certifications, a Watchkeeping Officer primarily oversees navigation and safety on the bridge, whereas a Marine Engineer focuses on engine systems and machinery. Their responsibilities and work environments differ, but both are essential for vessel operation and safety.

What are popular job titles related to Watchkeeping Officer jobs?

For Watchkeeping Officer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Watchkeeping Officer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,929 per year, or $36.5 per hour.

2nd Officer

Miami, FL • On-site

Other

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

2nd Officer

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.

Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL) is a cruise vacation company comprised of three award-winning global brands: Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea Cruises. Royal Caribbean Group is also a 50% owner of a joint venture that includes TUI Cruises and Hapag-Lloyd Cruises. Together, our brands operate a global fleet of 64 ships traveling to more than 800 destinations worldwide.