
Courses for beginners
There are no courses available in Cairns Queensland for beginner learners with no prior experience or qualifications.
Courses for experienced learners
There is 1 course available in Cairns Queensland for experienced learners with prior experience or qualifications.
Certificate IV in Maritime Operations (Marine Engine Driver Grade 1 Near Coastal)
- There are no mandated entry requirements.

Key questions
How can I become a engineer watchkeeper?
To become a engineer watchkeeper in Cairns, you may want to consider completing the Certificate IV in Maritime Operations (Marine Engine Driver Grade 1 Near Coastal). This qualification will equip you with the skills and knowledge necessary for a career in this industry.
Are there training providers in Cairns?
You can train to become a engineer watchkeeper by completing a qualification with TAFE Queensland. Find a course provider near you. Once you make an enquiry, a course advisor will get in touch to discuss your study options and course fees.
What study modes are available?
There are several campuses within the Cairns area that provide engineer watchkeeper training. The nearest campus is located right in the center of Cairns. You can also study a engineer watchkeeper course through distance learning. Find a course provider that best suits your study needs.
Related occupations
Explore related occupations in the engineer watchkeeper sector.
General Purpose Hand
A General Purpose Hand performs various duties on a marine vessel, assisting passengers, managing cargo, cleaning, and conducting safety checks.
Coxswain
A Coxswain steers small vessels, navigates courses, communicates with crew, and prioritises safety during journeys and emergencies.
Second Engineer
A Second Engineer repairs and maintains equipment on a vessel, handling mechanical, electrical, and hydraulic systems while ensuring smooth operations.
Chief Cook
A Chief Cook prepares meals on a vessel, ensuring ingredient availability, hygiene, and special dietary needs while managing tasks efficiently.
Sea Captain
A Sea Captain navigates and manages a vessel, ensuring safety and leadership while transporting passengers or cargo and communicating with the crew.
Chief Engineer
A Chief Engineer oversees machinery maintenance, designs equipment, supervises teams, and requires strong analytical and leadership skills.
Marine Mechanic
A Marine Mechanic repairs boats and maritime equipment, specialising in engines and systems while demonstrating problem-solving skills.
Marine Engineer
A Marine Engineer maintains and repairs shipping equipment, working on various vessel systems and ensuring effective operation through servicing and problem-solving.
Boat Builder
A Boat Builder constructs and repairs maritime vessels, customising designs to client specifications and specialising in areas like interiors or masts.
Shipwright
A Shipwright builds and repairs ships, requiring strong technical skills, attention to detail, and teamwork to meet customer needs.
Assistant Shipwright
An Assistant Shipwright aids in constructing and maintaining vessels, following instructions and working in teams while ensuring attention to detail.
Marine Surveyor
A Marine Surveyor inspects vessels for safety compliance, prepares reports, and conducts scheduled checks, requiring attention to detail, organisation, and strong communication skills.
Master Mariner
A Master Mariner is responsible for navigating and operating a large ship, ensuring the safety of crew and passengers while complying with regulations and communicating effectively with authorities.
Watchkeeper Deck Officer
A Watchkeeper Deck Officer oversees navigation, supervises cargo loading, liaises with the captain, manages equipment, and communicates with crew and passengers.
Deckhand
A Deckhand performs cleaning, maintenance, cargo handling, mooring, and safety patrols on a ship, requiring physical fitness, teamwork, and strict adherence to safety procedures.
Ship Mate
A Ship Mate assists with navigation, supervises crew, manages cargo, and ensures safety aboard vessels, requiring strong awareness and problem-solving skills.
Ship Master
A Ship Master oversees vessel operations, navigation, crew coordination, and regulation compliance, requiring strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
Naval Architect
A Naval Architect designs ships and marine vessels, developing innovative solutions, meeting client needs, and adapting skills for varied projects.
More about engineer watchkeeper courses in Cairns
If you're looking to advance your career in the maritime industry, consider exploring Engineer Watchkeeper courses in Cairns. With the Great Barrier Reef and bustling ports nearby, Cairns offers an ideal environment for aspiring marine professionals. These courses equip you with the essential skills needed to become an Engineer Watchkeeper, ensuring safety and efficiency on vessels of all types. Learning in Cairns not only provides practical experience but also connects you with local industry networks that can help kickstart your career.
In addition to Engineer Watchkeeper training, there are several related job roles to consider within the maritime field. You might find interest in becoming a General Purpose Hand or a Coxswain, both of which play significant roles in supporting vessel operations. If you're curious about progressing further, the position of Second Engineer might be a perfect fit, or perhaps you envision yourself as a Sea Captain leading a crew on an adventure across the water.
Cairns is also home to various industries that value maritime skills, making it a thriving hub for those in transport and logistics. It's worthwhile to explore the broader Transport and Logistics courses available, which can complement your training as an Engineer Watchkeeper. Whether your ambitions lie in engineering, marine mechanics, or even roles like Chief Engineer and Marine Mechanic, the opportunities in Cairns are vast and varied.
Completing your education with Engineer Watchkeeper courses in Cairns can pave the way for exciting maritime opportunities. Additionally, consider exploring roles such as Chief Cook or Boat Builder, each contributing to the diverse marine ecosystem. By choosing Cairns for your training, you’ll benefit from the local industry’s support and situate yourself in one of Australia's most beautiful and active maritime settings.
Further reading


Most popular engineering courses
12th June 2022