SAQA All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION: 

Occupational Certificate: Marine Electro-Technical Officer 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
103281  Occupational Certificate: Marine Electro-Technical Officer 
ORIGINATOR
Development Quality Partner - TETA (Manufacturing) 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
-   OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
Occupational Certificate  Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology  Engineering and Related Design 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  655  Not Applicable  NQF Level 05  Regular-ELOAC 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Reregistered  EXCO 0425/24  2021-07-01  2025-12-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2026-12-30   2029-12-30  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This qualification does not replace any other qualification and is not replaced by any other qualification. 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:
The purpose of this qualification is to prepare a learner to operate as a Marine Electro-Technical Officer.

A Marine Electro-Technical Officer arranges the operation and maintenance of the electro-technical equipment, machinery and the control of info-communication systems on board ship in an operational and supportive role.

A qualified learner will be able to:
  • Complete marine electro-technical (electrical, electronic and control engineering) duties at an operational and support level.
  • Perform marine electro-technical maintenance and repair duties at an operational and support level.
  • Perform safe ship board operations duties and care for persons on board at an operational and support level.
  • Engage internal and external human resources at operational and support level.
  • Manage and execute security duties and contingency plans at an operational and support level.

    Rationale:
    The maritime transport industry, and shipping, in particular, is subject to conventions and protocols emerging from organizations like the International Maritime Organisation (IMO), the International Labour Organisation (ILO) and the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP). This characteristic requires the governance of the industry to be as sensitive to international considerations as it is to domestic considerations.

    This qualification will address the need for education and training of Marine Electro-Technical Officers and -Ratings in South Africa as there is currently no registered qualification which satisfies the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) requirements and therefore the international requirements. A registered qualification will ensure compliance with international standard, practice and harbour regulations. South African training institutions providing training are currently accredited by SAMSA, which are in turn recognised by the IMO. SAMSA will continue to play a critical role in ensuring that the standards set by the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) system are aligned with International Convention Standards of Training certification and Watch keeping for seafarers STCW as amended and thus ensure that South Africa's education, training, and eventual certification standards continue to be internationally recognised.

    South Africa's geographic location relative to its main trading partners makes it imperative that maritime transport is efficient, innovative and reliable. Transportation makes up a significant element in the pricing of South African traded goods. Efficient transport services, ensuring the safe and timely arrival of freight, are a prerequisite to competitive and successful trading. Trade is the economic life-blood of nations, with maritime transport carrying over 90% of all international trade. The successful implementation of this qualification will support the strategic economic objectives of the country.

    This qualification will be targeting school leavers and currently employed persons. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL):
    RPL for access to the external integrated summative assessment:
    Accredited providers and approved workplaces must apply the internal assessment criteria specified in the related curriculum document to establish and confirm prior learning. Accredited providers and workplaces must confirm prior learning by issuing a statement of result or certifying a work experience record.

    RPL for access to the qualification:
    Accredited providers and approved workplaces may recognise prior learning against the relevant access requirements.

    Entry Requirements:
  • Level 4 with Mathematics.
  • National Certificate: N3 Engineering Studies with Mathematics. 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    This qualification is made up of the following compulsory Knowledge, Practical Skills and Work Experience Modules:

    Knowledge Modules:
  • 315101-000-00-00-KM-01, Personnel Management and Ships Master Business, Level 5, 6 Credits.
  • 315101-000-00-00-KM-02, Engineering Knowledge, Level 5, 24 Credits.
  • 315101-000-00-00-KM-03, Intermediate Marine Electro-Technology, Level 5, 16 Credits.
  • 315101-000-00-00-KM-04, Marine Mathematics, Level 5, 22 Credits.
  • 315101-000-00-00-KM-05, Marine Engineering Drawing, Level 3, 6 Credits.
  • 315101-000-00-00-KM-06, Marine Engineering Science, Level 3, 6 Credits.
  • 315101-000-00-00-KM-07, Marine Industrial Electronics, Level 5, 22 Credits.
  • 315101-000-00-00-KM-08, Applied Digital Electronics, Level 5, 22 Credits.
  • 315101-000-00-00-KM-09, Applied Control Systems, Level 6, 6 Credits.
  • 315101-000-00-00-KM-10, Fundamentals of Communication, Level 3, 2 Credits.
  • 315101-000-00-00-KM-11, High Voltage Safety, Level 5, 2 Credits.
  • 315101-000-00-00-KM-12, Global Maritime Distress Satellite System (GMDSS), Level 5, 6 Credits.
  • 315101-000-00-00-KM-13, Survival Craft and Rescue Boats, Level 4, 4 Credits.
  • 315101-000-00-00-KM-14, Personal Survival Techniques, Level 4, 2 Credits.
  • 315101-000-00-00-KM-15, Personal Safety and on Board Social Responsibilities, Level 4, 2 Credits.
  • 315101-000-00-00-KM-16, Medical First Aid, Level 4, 2 Credits.
  • 315101-000-00-00-KM-17, Fire Prevention and Firefighting, Level 3, 2 Credits.
  • 315101-000-00-00-KM-18, Advanced Firefighting, Level 4, 2 Credits.
  • 315101-000-00-00-KM-19, Designated Security Duties, Level 3, 2 Credits.
  • 315101-000-00-00-KM-20, Basic Electro-Technology, Level 4, 16 Credits.
  • 315101-000-00-00-KM-21, Applied Mathematics, Level 4, 22 Credits.
  • 315101-000-00-00-KM-22, Fundamental Marine Industrial Electronics, Level 4, 22 Credits.
    Total number of credits for Knowledge Modules: 216.

    Practical Skill Modules:
  • 315101-000-00-00-PM-01, Monitor the operation of electrical and electronic ship board systems, Level 5, 10 Credits.
  • 315101-000-00-00-PM-02, Manage the operation of generators and distribution systems for shipboard electricity reticulation, Level 5, 15 Credits.
  • 315101-000-00-00-PM-03, Operate computers and computer networks on vessels for the control of systems, Level 5, 10 Credits.
  • 315101-000-00-00-PM-04, Manage the maintenance and repair of electrical and electronic equipment, Level 5, 15 Credits.
  • 315101-000-00-00-PM-05, Manage the maintenance and repair of automation and control systems of the main propulsion and auxiliary machinery, Level 5, 10 Credits.
  • 315101-000-00-00-PM-06, Maintain and repair bridge navigation equipment and ship communication systems as per Certificate of Competence endorsements, Level 5, 10 Credits.
  • 315101-000-00-00-PM-07, Manage, lead and develop the human element, Level 5, 6 Credits.
  • 315101-000-00-00-PM-08, Ensure the safety of personnel and ship at the support level, Level 5, 2 Credits.
  • 315101-000-00-00-PM-09, Assist with and control vessel security at the support level, Level 5, 2 Credits.
  • 315101-000-00-00-PM-10, Monitor the operation of electrical and electronic ship board systems at the support level, Level 5, 10 Credits.
  • 315101-000-00-00-PM-11, Operate generators and distribution systems for ship board electricity reticulation at the support level, Level 5, 16 Credits.
  • 315101-000-00-00-PM-12, Maintain and repair of electrical and electronic equipment, Level 5, 25 Credits.
  • 315101-000-00-00-PM-13, Maintain and repair of automation and control systems of the main propulsion and auxiliary machinery at the support level, Level 5, 20 Credits.

    Total number of credits for Practical Skill Modules: 151.

    Work Experience Modules:
  • 315101-000-00-00-WM-01, Policies and procedures around marine electrical, electronic and control engineering tasks at the operational level, Level 5, 48 Credits.
  • 315101-000-00-00-WM-02, Complying with maintenance and repair procedures at the operational level, Level 5, 48 Credits.
  • 315101-000-00-00-WM-03, Guidelines and procedures for controlling ship operation and care for persons on board at the operational level, Level 5, 48 Credits.
  • 315101-000-00-00-WM-04, Standard operating procedures followed when assisting with marine electrical, electronic and control engineering tasks, Level 3, 48 Credits.
  • 315101-000-00-00-WM-05, Adhering to maintenance and repair procedures at the support level, Level 3, 48 Credits.
  • 315101-000-00-00-WM-06, Procedures for assisting with ship operation and care for persons on board at the support level, Level 48.
    Total number of credits for Work Experience Modules: 288. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Control the operation, monitoring, and evaluation of the performance of safe and efficient electrical and electronic systems and equipment.
    2. Take appropriate action to prevent damage/failure as per planned maintenance procedures, marine practice, safety regulations and manufacturer's instructions.
    3. Perform safe ship board operations duties and care for persons on board for at an operational and support level.
    4. Manage, lead and develop the human element as per operational and legislative requirements.
    5. Exercise all required safety, environmental and hazard control precautions and procedures when overseeing the operation and performance evaluation of electrical, electronic and control systems. 

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 1:
  • The operation of electrical and electronic ship board systems is monitored as part of a team.
  • The safe operation of generators and distribution systems for ship board electricity reticulation is controlled.
  • Computers and computer networks on vessels for the control of systems are operated.
  • Assistance is provided for monitoring the operation of electrical and electronic ship board systems.
  • Support is rendered in the operation of generators and distribution systems for ship board electricity reticulation.
  • Corrective action is instituted.
  • Engine room resource principles are applied.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 2:
  • The maintenance and repair of electrical and electronic equipment are managed, including the monitoring of systems, automatic control devices, and protective or safety devices.
  • The maintenance and repair of automation and control systems of the main propulsion and auxiliary machinery is managed.
  • Bridge navigation equipment and ship communication systems are maintained and repaired within the scope of the Certificate of Competence endorsements.
  • Support is provided for the maintenance and repair of electrical and electronic equipment including monitoring systems, automatic control devices, and protective or safety devices.
  • Assistance is provided with the maintenance and repair of automation and control systems of the main propulsion and auxiliary machinery.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 3:
  • Operational support is provided towards the safety of the ship and care for persons on board.
  • Emergency situations and damage are controlled.
  • Operational and legislated records are maintained.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 4:
  • Service providers and/or personnel are managed.
  • Performance standards for human resources are determined.
  • Utilisation of human resources is optimised.
  • Continuous professional development plans are compiled.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcome 5:
  • Assistance is provided in developing security contingency plans.
  • Security procedures are applied.

    Integrated Assessment:
    Integrated Formative Assessment:
    The skills development provider will use the curriculum to guide them on the stipulated internal assessment criteria and weighting. They will also apply the scope of practical skills and applied knowledge as stipulated by the internal assessment criteria. This formative assessment leads to entrance into the integrated external summative assessment.

    Integrated Summative Assessment:
    An external integrated summative assessment, conducted through the relevant Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) Assessment Quality Partner is required for the issuing of this qualification. The external integrated summative assessment will focus on the Exit Level Outcomes and Associated Assessment Criteria. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    South Africa is a member of the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) and subsequently a co­ signatory to the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification, and Watch keeping for Seafarers (STCW).

    The Occupational Certificate: Marine Electro-Technical Officer qualification was developed to meet the requirements of the above agreement.

    The standards are comparable with those for seafarers in countries having comparable maritime training systems to South Africa such as Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom.

    Australia:
    The Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) has the following qualifications registered for the Marine Electro-Technical Officer:
    1. The University of Adelaide, CRICOS 097603D, Graduate Diploma in Marine Engineering, 1 year.

    2. TAFE New South Wales, Australia:
  • CRICOS 086370G, Advanced Diploma of Maritime Operations (Marine Engineering Class 1), 1 year.
  • CRICOS 086368A, Advanced Diploma of Maritime Operations (Marine Engineering Class 2).

    New Zealand:
    The New Zealand Qualifications Framework (NZQF) has the following qualifications registered for the Marine Electro-Technical Officer:
  • NZSCED 031705, New Zealand Diploma in Marine Electro-technology, Manukau Institute of Technology, Diploma, Level 6, 2,5 years, 300 Credits.
  • NZSCED 2514, New Zealand Diploma in Marine Engineering, Diploma, Level 6, 300 Credits.
  • NZSCED 2515, New Zealand Diploma in Nautical Science, Diploma, Level 6, 300 Credits.

    United Kingdom:
  • War sash Academy, Marine Electro-Technical Officers, Foundation Degree (FdEng) in Marine Electrical and Electronic Engineering, 116 weeks, Level 6.

    Conclusion:
    The standards are comparable with those for seafarers in countries having comparable maritime training systems to South Africa. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    Horizontal Articulation:
  • National Certificate: N4 Engineering Studies, Level 5.

    Vertical Articulation:
  • National N Diploma: Engineering Studies, Level 6. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
    N/A 

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    N/A 

    NOTES 
    Qualifying for external assessment:
    In order to qualify for an external assessment, learners must provide proof of completion of all required modules by means of statements of results and work experience.

    Additional legal or physical entry requirements:
    The entry requirements are prescribed by the Merchant Shipping (Safe Manning Training and Certification) Regulations.

    Further to the above requirement, the learner must have a current approved SAMSA medical fitness and eye test certificate.

    A specific requirement for entry into the workplace component of the Marine Electro-Technical Officer is valid certification against the following ancillary courses:
  • Personal Survival Techniques.
  • Personal Survival and Social Responsibility.
  • Medical First Aid.
  • Fire Prevention and Firefighting.
  • Safety Familiarisation.

    Criteria for the accreditation of providers:
    Accreditation of providers will be done against the criteria as reflected in the relevant curriculum on the Quality Council for Trades and Occupations (QCTO) website as well as in compliance with SAMSA legal requirements.

    The curriculum title and code is: Marine Electro-Technical Officer: 315101-000-00-00.

    Encompassed Trades as Recorded on the National Learners' Records Database (NLRD):
    This is not a trade qualification.

    Assessment Quality Partner (AQP):
    South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA).

    Derived qualifications registered as part qualifications:
  • 315101-000-00-00-01, Marine Electro-Technical Rating, Level 4, 333 Credits. 
    		•

    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
     
    NONE 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    NONE 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.