ABSTRACT
Candidates who present themselves for the oral examination for Chief Mate should be aware that this rank is considered as a position of senior authority aboard the vessel. As such a higher level of responsibility over and above that of Officer of the Watch is being assessed by the Marine examiner. The examiner will also be aware that the Chief Mate’s position aboard a vessel is considered as that of being the ‘working boss’. As such three main areas of work are identified as being essential to such a position, namely: the stability of the ship, the cargo operations of the vessel and the maintenance procedures, for each and every voyage. Examiners of any senior qualification would also expect the candidate to demonstrate a level of management skill related to the nature of the work. In the case of employment within the Mercantile Marine, a degree of ‘power of command’ and confidence would also be expected.
