Please Note
- An estimate based on public data for similar roles. Not provided by the employer.
Electrician / ETO
Role summary
Written by MyIslandJob from the job title and employer. See the employer's page for the full description.
The Electrician/ETO maintains, repairs and tests the vessel’s electrical, automation and electronic systems, including switchboards, lighting, power distribution, alarms and safety equipment. Candidates typically need a recognized electrical or electro-technical qualification, relevant shipboard or industrial experience, good troubleshooting skills and working knowledge of electrical safety procedures. STCW certification, a valid seafarer medical certificate and fluent working English are normally required. Cruise experience is advantageous. The candidate is expected to work safely and independently, respond quickly to technical faults, complete maintenance records, follow company and maritime regulations, and cooperate with the engineering and hotel departments. The role involves shift work, emergency response, confined spaces and extended periods at sea.
Can I work on cruise ships?
Never pay anyone for a visa or a job offer. A real employer pays the permit costs and never asks you for money.
How it works
How it works: No host-country permit: a seafarer medical, safety training, a seaman's book, a US crew visa and a Schengen visa.
Watch for: Recruitment fees are banned on ships.
Official source: US Department of State: crewmember visa. Checked October 2026.
What the job usually comes with on cruise ships
Usual for cruise ships, varies by employer. Checked October 2026.
| Housing | Free cabin, usually shared |
|---|---|
| Meals | Free (by law) |
| Flights | Joining and home flights usually paid; free repatriation (by law) |
| Service charge | Passenger service charges pooled on many lines |
| Contract | 6 to 9 months on board, about 2 months unpaid between contracts |
| Leave | 2.5 days a month, often paid as cash |
| Income tax | Usually not withheld; depends on your home country |
Senior staff often get more than line staff, for example a single room or a yearly home flight. Ask the employer what the job includes before you accept.
Guidance, not legal advice. Rules change; your employer confirms the details for your case.
About MSC Cruises
MSC Cruises is a major international cruise company and part of the Mediterranean Shipping Company group. Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, it operates a modern fleet sailing to destinations across the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Caribbean, North America, South America, Asia and other regions. MSC ships provide accommodation, dining, entertainment, retail, wellness and excursion services for guests from around the world. The company employs multinational shipboard teams in marine operations, engineering, hospitality, food and beverage, entertainment and guest services. As a large cruise employer, MSC generally offers structured training, onboard accommodation and meals, travel to and from the vessel, and opportunities to progress through its maritime and hotel operations. Working standards are governed by international maritime regulations, company procedures and strict health, safety and environmental requirements.