Electro-Technical Officer (ETO) in Merchant Navy – A Complete Guide
Table of Contents
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1. Who is an Electro-Technical Officer?
As per Section A-III/6 of the STCW Code, an Electro-Technical Officer (ETO) is a licensed officer in the engine department on merchant ships. ETOs are responsible for the maintenance, operation, and troubleshooting of all electrical and electronic systems onboard.
From the engine room control systems to navigation radars and electronic charts on the bridge, ETOs ensure everything runs smoothly. They also handle power generation, distribution, cargo operations, and equipment like lifts and refrigeration systems.
Unlike other marine engineers, ETOs don’t perform engine room watches. Instead, they directly report to the Chief Engineer and play a vital role in the vessel’s senior management, enhancing safety and operational efficiency.
2. Why Choose ETO as a Career?
If you’re an electrical or electronics engineering graduate, ETO is a high-paying, prestigious post in the Merchant Navy. Here’s why it’s a great career option:
Global travel with lucrative salaries
Opportunity to work with cutting-edge marine technology
Rapid career growth
A well-respected officer rank onboard
The position of ETO offers technical exposure and career advancement that very few engineering jobs on land can match.
3. How to Become an ETO in Merchant Navy?
To become an ETO, you must:
Hold a B.Tech or Diploma in Electrical, Electronics, EEE, ECE, or related streams.
Enroll in a 4-month residential ETO course at a DG Shipping-approved institute.
Undergo 8 months of onboard training as a Trainee ETO (usually after getting company sponsorship).
Platforms like Merchant Navy Decoded offer a free ETO Guidance Series, helping aspirants understand sponsorships, interviews, and admission steps.
4. ETO Course Eligibility Criteria
4.1 Educational Qualifications
10+2 with PCM and English, with 50% marks in English.
Diploma (3 years) with 60% or Degree (4 years) with 50% in Electrical, Electronics, EEE, ECE, or Instrumentation.
Courses must be recognized by AICTE/State/Central Government.
4.2 Age Limit
General: Up to 35 years
Anglo-Eastern: 28 years
Great Eastern: 26 years
Tip: Always check age criteria with individual colleges or companies.
4.3 ETO Eligibility Calculator
Use tools like ETO Eligibility Calculator to:
Get college recommendations
Analyze BMI and health standards
Check company-wise sponsorship eligibility
5. ETO Medical Criteria
To join the Merchant Navy as an ETO, candidates must meet the following medical standards:
Vision: 6/12 in both eyes (unaided)
No color blindness (even partial)
Must be physically fit as per DG Shipping norms
Medical certificate must be issued by a DG Shipping-approved doctor
Merchant Navy Decoded offers a dedicated Medical Series explaining all physical requirements.
6. ETO Sponsorship & Interview
Sponsorship is a pre-placement guarantee given by a shipping company. It ensures a job onboard after your ETO course. You must:
Clear company interviews
Clear DG Shipping medical tests
Getting sponsored before joining the college increases your chances of quick placement.
7. Best ETO Colleges in India
7.1 Anglo Eastern Maritime Academy, Maharashtra
100% placement (own shipping company)
Fees: ₹3.3 Lakhs
Age: Max 28 years
Eligibility: 65% in PCM or Diploma; 50% in English
[Click here for Anglo Eastern details]
7.2 Tolani Maritime Institute, Maharashtra
Modern infrastructure with great placements
Fees: ₹3.15 Lakhs
Eligibility: 55% in PCM, 60% in Degree, 50% in English
Age: Max 28 years
[Explore Tolani Maritime Institute here]
7.3 Seven Islands Maritime Training Institute
Fees: ₹3.9 Lakhs
100% placement (has own shipping company)
Eligibility: 50% in Degree and English, max age 30
[Get full insight into Seven Islands Institute]
8. ETO Rank Structure
Trainee Electrical Cadet (after onboard training)
Assistant Electro-Technical Officer (after CoC exam)
Electro-Technical Officer (ETO)
Senior ETO (after more sea-time and exams)
Promotions depend on sea-time, experience, and clearing CoC exams conducted by DG Shipping.
9. Duties of an ETO
The responsibilities of an ETO include:
Troubleshooting electrical/electronic faults
Installation & maintenance of systems
Supervising large-scale electrical work
Ensuring operational safety of all onboard electronic systems
To gain more hands-on knowledge, you can explore the ETO Excellence Package with practical video modules.
10. Electro-Technical Officer Salary
ETO salaries depend on experience, type of ship, and company.
| Rank | Experience | Ship Type | Salary (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trainee ETO | 0-1 year | Any | $500–$800/month |
| ETO | 2–4 years | Bulk Carrier | $2,500–$4,000/month |
| Senior ETO | 5+ years | Oil Tanker | $5,000/month |
| Senior ETO | 6+ years | LNG Carrier | $6,000–$8,000/month |
Merchant Navy ETOs earn tax-free salaries with global exposure and high job security.
Final Words
Becoming an Electro-Technical Officer is a smart choice for electrical and electronics engineers who want a well-paying, adventurous, and respectable career. With proper guidance, the right training, and a clear understanding of eligibility and sponsorship, your journey to becoming a top-notch ETO can begin today.
Want to know if you’re eligible? Use the ETO Eligibility Calculator or get help from the Merchant Navy Decoded Team.