MARINE MIRROR

By Marine Technical Superintendent, Tarun Kansal

• Marine Mirror
• Tarun Kansal
• Marine Mirror
• Tarun – LinkedIn

An Electro-Technical Officer (ETO) plays a critical role onboard a ship, primarily responsible for managing and maintaining the electrical and electronic systems. Their importance has grown significantly as modern ships have become more technologically advanced. Here are key reasons why ETOs are vital:

Maintenance of Electrical Systems: ETOs ensure that electrical power distribution systems, control systems, and automation are functioning correctly. This includes generators, transformers, and switchboards.

Management of Navigational Equipment: ETOs maintain critical systems such as radar, GPS, and communication equipment, ensuring safe navigation and compliance with maritime regulations.

Handling Automation and Control Systems: With the increasing automation of ships, ETOs are responsible for monitoring and troubleshooting automation systems, ensuring that they operate safely and efficiently.

Safety: They manage safety systems like fire alarms, emergency lighting, and lifeboat electrical systems. They are essential during emergency situations to troubleshoot and fix any electrical faults.

Energy Efficiency: ETOs contribute to energy management by monitoring the electrical consumption of the vessel, helping to optimize power usage and reduce fuel consumption.

Support for Engine and Deck Departments: They assist both the engine and deck departments with any electrical and electronic issues, ensuring seamless operations across the vessel.

Being a Technical Superintendent, I have faced challenges in retaining ETOs. Retaining crew onboard is an important challenge faced by HR department. Based on my experience, Here are some strategies to improve retention:

Competitive Salary and Benefits:

Offer a salary that is competitive within the industry. Consider additional benefits like performance bonuses, insurance, paid leave, and family travel allowances to make the position more attractive.

Career Development Opportunities:

Provide training and certification opportunities that help ETOs advance in their careers. Continuous professional development through courses, technical workshops, and on-the-job learning is a great incentive for ETOs to stay with a company.

Improved Work-Life Balance:

Implement policies that ensure reasonable working hours, adequate rest periods, and predictable rotation schedules. A balanced schedule with time off to spend with family and friends can reduce fatigue and stress, making the job more sustainable.
Recognition and Rewards:

Recognize good performance through awards, promotions, and bonuses. A strong recognition program can boost morale and create loyalty to the company.

Comfortable Onboard Living Conditions:

Ensure the ship has comfortable living quarters, modern amenities, and good recreational facilities. This will make life at sea more comfortable, which can improve retention.

Healthy Work Environment:

Encourage a positive work culture that values teamwork and respect. ETOs will feel more committed if they feel appreciated, respected, and part of a cohesive crew.

Involvement in Decision-Making:

Involve ETOs in technical decision-making, planning, and troubleshooting. Giving them responsibility and ownership of technical matters onboard can create a sense of belonging and loyalty.

Regular Feedback and Communication:

Maintain open communication with ETOs regarding their needs, concerns, and career aspirations. Regular feedback and active listening can help address issues early and create a positive work relationship.

Stable Job Security:

Offer long-term contracts with clear career progression paths to provide job security and stability. ETOs are more likely to stay if they feel secure in their positions.
By focusing on these areas, you can build a positive and engaging work environment that encourages ETOs to remain with your company for the long term.

Let’s discuss other few crucial topics based on ETO :

1. Shortage of ETOs Global specially India: Yes, there has been a noticeable shortage of Electro Technical Officers (ETOs) in India. Some underlying reasons for this shortage include:
   • High demand for specialized skills: ETOs possess highly technical and specialized knowledge, especially with the increasing complexity of shipboard electrical, electronic, and automation systems. The rapid technological advancements in the maritime sector have outpaced the training and recruitment of new ETOs.
   • Limited training facilities: There are relatively fewer maritime training institutes that offer ETO programs compared to other marine engineering courses. This limits the number of qualified graduates entering the field.
   • Global demand: Indian ETOs are sought after not just by Indian shipping companies but also by international shipping lines, which puts additional pressure on the supply pool.
   • Less visibility and appeal: Many candidates entering the maritime sector prefer pursuing traditional engineering roles, such as Marine Engineer or Chief Engineer, which may be perceived as more prestigious, leading to fewer entrants into ETO positions.
2. ETO earning more than senior engineers: It is true that in some cases, ETOs can earn more than senior engineers. This disparity reflects several factors:
   • Specialized expertise: ETOs are highly specialized, particularly as ships rely more on electrical and electronic systems for navigation, automation, communication, and power management. Their expertise is crucial to maintaining these systems, making them indispensable.
   • Demand vs. Supply: Due to the shortage of skilled ETOs and the high demand, shipping companies are willing to offer competitive salaries to attract and retain qualified personnel. In certain markets and vessel types, this leads to higher pay for ETOs compared to traditional marine engineers.
   • Criticality of the role: On modern ships, electrical systems have become as vital as mechanical systems, leading to higher remuneration for those responsible for them.
3. Standard day rate for senior ETOs: The day rate for a well-experienced senior ETO can vary depending on factors such as experience, type of vessel, flag, and market conditions. However, in general:
   • Range: The day rate for a senior ETO typically falls between $200 to $500 per day.
   • Specialized vessels: On more technically advanced vessels like LNG/LPG carriers, offshore vessels, or high-tech container ships, the rate can be on the higher end or even exceed $500 per day due to the complexity of systems onboard.
   • Market fluctuations: Day rates fluctuate based on demand, but experienced ETOs with niche expertise, particularly those with certifications for specialized systems, can command higher rates than average.