Please Note
- An estimate based on public data for similar roles. Not provided by the employer.
1st Engineer - Daily
Role summary
Written by MyIslandJob from the job title and employer. See the employer's page for the full description.
The First Engineer supports the Chief Engineer in managing the ship’s machinery, propulsion, electrical and auxiliary systems. Requirements typically include a recognized marine engineering qualification, relevant engine-room experience, valid STCW certification, medical fitness, and appropriate seafarer documents. Experience on cruise ships or large passenger vessels is highly valued. The successful candidate is expected to supervise engineering staff, maintain safe and efficient plant operations, respond to breakdowns, complete planned maintenance, keep accurate records, and comply with MARPOL, SOLAS, company procedures and safety standards. Strong leadership, problem-solving skills, teamwork, reliability and the ability to work long periods at sea are essential.
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 large fleet serving destinations across Europe, the Caribbean, North America, South America, the Middle East and other global regions. The company offers ocean cruises, onboard accommodation, dining, entertainment, excursions and family-focused activities. Its ships employ multinational teams across marine operations, hospitality, culinary services, guest relations, entertainment and technical departments. MSC Cruises places strong emphasis on maritime safety, environmental compliance, operational reliability and guest experience. Engineering officers are responsible for maintaining the systems that keep vessels safe, comfortable and operational. Employment normally involves structured contracts, onboard accommodation and meals, international teamwork, and adherence to strict maritime regulations and company standards.