Vacancies for Electric Cadet

Electrical Cadet (ETO Cadet, Electro-Technical Cadet, Electrician Cadet) is an entry-level position in the ship's electro-technical department for cadets and graduates of maritime colleges and universities with an electrical or automation background. It is usually the first sea practice where a future ETO (Electro-Technical Officer) gains onboard experience in maintaining ship electrical systems, power equipment, automation and control systems under the supervision of an experienced electro-technical officer.

Typical offers for Electrical Cadet jobs in 2026 are in the range of USD 500-1,100 per month, depending on the vessel type, company, training program and candidate's previous experience. Below you can find current Electrical Cadet vacancies and a short overview of the position, duties, requirements and salary expectations.

Electrical Cadet duties

On merchant vessels, an Electrical Cadet assists the ETO or ship electrician and completes practical onboard training. Common duties include:

• Assisting with maintenance of main and auxiliary generators, switchboards, power supply systems and emergency power supply equipment;
• Taking part in planned maintenance of electric motors for pumps, fans, winches, cargo cranes and deck machinery;
• Assisting with automation systems, PMS (Power Management System), IAS (Integrated Automation System) and navigation equipment under the supervision of the ETO;
• Helping with repair work: replacement of starters, contactors and relays, insulation checks and testing of electrical circuits;
• Assisting with lighting systems, domestic electrical equipment, air conditioning and ventilation systems;
• Maintaining the Cadet Training Record Book and recording completed tasks and acquired skills;
• Taking part in onboard drills, fire training and safety exercises.

To work as an Electrical Cadet, candidates usually need to study at a maritime university or college in a program related to ship electrical equipment, automation or marine electro-technology, hold basic STCW training certificates, a valid medical certificate and seafarer's documents. A standard cadet contract often lasts 4-6 months.

After completing sea practice and gaining the required sea time, an Electrical Cadet may continue a career in the electro-technical department and later apply for the position of ETO (Electro-Technical Officer). Further career development may include work on tankers, passenger vessels, LNG carriers or offshore vessels, where strong knowledge of automation, electrical equipment and ship control systems is required.

Electrical Cadet salary by vessel type

Electrical Cadet salary depends on the vessel type, contract duration, company and candidate requirements. On Maritime Zone, the most common salary ranges are:

• General Cargo, Coaster and multipurpose vessels: USD 400-700 per month. A common option for a first contract and initial sea practice;
• Bulk carriers and container ships: USD 700-1,000. A good choice for gaining basic experience on larger merchant vessels;
• Tanker fleet: USD 900-1,200. Salaries are usually higher because of more complex automation, power supply and safety systems;
• Passenger and cruise vessels: USD 700-1,000. A large amount of electrical equipment, lighting, air conditioning, hotel load and passenger service systems provides strong practical training;
• Offshore fleet: cadet positions are less common. Companies may require previous sea experience, additional technical training or knowledge of specialized onboard systems.

Not all Electrical Cadet vacancies are published openly. Many shipping companies and crewing agencies fill cadet positions through maritime colleges, partner programs and direct recruitment. If you are just starting your maritime career, it is worth checking this page regularly and also applying directly to companies with cadet programs.