Typical Tasks:

1. Monitor engine, machinery, or equipment indicators when vessels are underway, and report abnormalities to appropriate shipboard staff.
2. Monitor the availability, use, or condition of lifesaving equipment or pollution preventatives to ensure that international regulations are followed.
3. Monitor and test operations of engines or other equipment so that malfunctions and their causes can be identified.
4. Start engines to propel ships, and regulate engines and power transmissions to control speeds of ships, according to directions from captains or bridge computers.
5. Perform or participate in emergency drills, as required.