Electro Technical Officer (ETO)

Work on ship’s electrical and electronic systems and handle all technical equipment onboard.

Course Type

Officer-Level Technical Program

Duration

4–6 Months (Pre-Sea Training)

Eligibility

Diploma / Degree in Electrical, Electronics, or Related Fields

Approved By

DG Shipping, Govt. of India

Training Outcome

Electro Technical Officer (Onboard Training)

Career Path

Junior ETO → Senior ETO

Electro Technical Officer (ETO)

The Electro Technical Officer (ETO) course is a DG Shipping–approved officer-level training program designed for candidates with an electrical or electronics background who wish to pursue a specialized technical career in the Merchant Navy. ETOs are responsible for the operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of all electrical, electronic, and automation systems on ships.

The course focuses on shipboard electrical systems, power generation and distribution, automation and control systems, navigation electronics, communication equipment, safety systems, and preventive maintenance. After completing the ETO pre-sea training, candidates join ships as Junior Electro Technical Officers, where they gain structured sea-time experience.

ETO is a highly skilled and well-paid maritime profession, offering long-term career stability and global opportunities across modern merchant vessels.

Why Opt for Electro Technical Officer (ETO)?

The ETO course is ideal for candidates who want a technical officer role without shifting to deck or engine departments. With ships becoming increasingly automated and technology-driven, the demand for skilled Electro Technical Officers is continuously growing.

One of the major advantages of the ETO role is high responsibility with attractive salaries, faster career stability, and strong global demand. ETOs work closely with bridge and engine departments, making them essential to ship operations and safety.

This course also offers excellent long-term prospects, including opportunities in offshore vessels, cruise ships, ship management companies, automation firms, and shore-based technical roles within the maritime industry.

Who Can Pursue the ETO Course?

Candidates who have completed a Diploma or Degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering or related fields are eligible. Applicants must meet DG Shipping medical standards and possess strong technical aptitude and problem-solving skills.

This Course is Ideal for Students Who:

  • Have an electrical or electronics engineering background
  • Want an officer-level technical role at sea
  • Are interested in ship automation and advanced system
  • Prefer technology-driven maritime careers
  • Seek high-paying and globally recognized roles
  • Are comfortable with shipboard responsibilities and sea life

Academic Requirement

Educational Qualification:

  • Diploma or Degree in Electrical / Electronics / Instrumentation / Mechatronics
  • Minimum 50–60% marks (as per institute/company norms)

Age Limit:

18 to 35 years (subject to DG Shipping guidelines)

Medical Fitness:

  • As per DG Shipping medical standards
  • No colour blindness
  • Good Vision (as prescribed)

Additional Requirements (if any):

  • Valid Passport
  • Background verification
  • English Language Proficiency

Admission Process

01

Application & Counselling

Initial eligibility screening

02

Written Test / Interview

Conducted by institute or company

03

DG Shipping Medical

Mandatory medical fitness test

04

Admission Confirmation

Enrollment in DG Shipping approved institute

05

Pre-Sea Training

6 months residential training

06

Onboard Placement

Join ship as Junior Electro Technical Officer

Placement Opportunities

Salary Structure

Show expected salary:

Deck Cadet

$450-$700

3rd Officer

$1500-$3000

2nd Officer

$3500-$4500

Chief Officer

$5000-$7000

Captain

$7500-$12000

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, the ETO course is approved by DG Shipping and mandatory to sail as an ETO.
Yes, diploma holders in eligible electrical/electronics disciplines can apply.
Sponsorship is not mandatory but is highly recommended for faster placement.
Most modern merchant ships, tankers, container vessels, LNG carriers, offshore vessels, and cruise ships require ETOs.
Placement depends on performance, medical fitness, sponsorship, and company demand, but ETOs are in high demand globally.

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