Engine Room Watch Rating (ERWR) Trainee

Fixed Term – 12 Months
2 Weeks On / 2 Weeks Off
Bluebridge StraitNZ – Cook Strait Ferries

Want to start a career in the engine room?

Bluebridge StraitNZ is offering a 12-month Engine Room Watch Rating (ERWR) Trainee position. This role is designed for someone who wants to gain the sea time and practical experience required to obtain an ERWR qualification.

You will work alongside experienced engineers and engine room ratings while completing your approved training record book and building the required sea service.

This is a temporary, fixed-term training position.

What the Programme Includes

During the 12 months you will:

• Gain engine room sea time on a commercial ferry
• Work a 2 weeks on / 2 weeks off roster
• Complete your ERWR training record book
• Learn engine room operations and safety procedures
• Assist engineers and ratings with daily maintenance and operational tasks

By the end of the year you should have the experience and documented training required to apply for your ERWR certificate.

What You’ll Be Doing

As a trainee you will assist the engineering team with day-to-day engine room work.

Typical tasks include:

• Assisting engineers and ratings with maintenance and repairs
• Carrying out engine room cleaning and housekeeping
• Assisting with machinery rounds and readings
• Supporting engineers during watchkeeping duties
• Learning how ship machinery and systems operate
• Following safety procedures and vessel operating standards

Expect hands-on work and a steep learning curve.

What We’re Looking For

We’re looking for someone who is:

• Keen to start a maritime engineering career
• Practical and willing to learn
• Reliable and able to work in a team
• Comfortable working in a hands-on environment

Requirements

• STCW Basic Safety Training
• Seafarer Medical (ENG1 or equivalent)
• Good English communication skills
• Physical fitness for engine room work
• Valid NZ work rights

Mechanical experience or maritime study is helpful but not required.

Important to Know

• This is a fixed-term training position for 12 months only
• The role is intended to help you gain sea time and complete your ERWR training book
• Employment is not guaranteed after the 12-month term

What You’ll Gain

• Valuable sea time on commercial vessels
• Practical engine room experience
• Mentorship from experienced engineers
• A strong foundation for a career at sea

Interested?

Send your CV and a short cover letter explaining why you want to start a career in the engine room.

Applicants must pass a medical examination, drug test, and Ministry of Justice criminal record check.