ETO Jobs on Container Ships

Role overview

Open recruitment for crewing agencies and shipowners we work with. This page is not a single vacancy: apply to be considered for ETO posts on container ships when they open.

Container ships are one of the main employers of ETOs because of the reefer containers. A large ship can carry well over a thousand reefers, each with its own refrigeration unit and controller connected to the ship’s power. The ETO checks reefer temperatures and alarms, repairs units at sea, and keeps the reefer sockets, cables and monitoring system working. Cargo owners can claim for spoiled fruit, meat or medicines, so reefer records are important.

Certificates for ETO posts on container ships

Certificate of Competency as Electro-Technical Officer (STCW Reg. III/6)
High-voltage training (operation and maintenance over 1,000 V) where the ship has HV systems
Reefer training on the common container unit makers (for example Carrier, Daikin, Thermo King) is often asked
Advanced fire fighting (STCW Reg. VI/3), designated security duties (VI/6)

Watches, trade and contract

The ETO works day hours and is on call. In port the ETO plugs in and checks newly loaded reefers with the reefer electrician or crew, and before departure confirms that all reefers are running. Other systems include the bow thruster, the alarm and monitoring system, the main switchboard, the navigation equipment with the officers, and the cranes on geared feeder ships. The ETO keeps a record of reefer faults and repairs so the operator can answer any cargo claim.

Contract length: commonly 4 to 5 months, set by the employer for each vacancy.

What employers ask for

ETO or electrical officer service on container ships
Reefer repair experience with fault codes and controller software
High-voltage experience and safe isolation procedures
Experience with automation and power management systems

How to apply

Create a free seafarer account and confirm your email address.
Fill in your CV with your sea service on container ships, your CoC and the certificates listed above, and upload copies.
Apply to this post and make your profile visible to verified employers, so crewing agencies and shipowners can find you when a vacancy opens.

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