The Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Marine Engine Driver Grade 3 Near Coastal) is designed to prepare individuals for a rewarding career in the maritime industry as a qualified Marine Engine Driver Grade 3 Near Coastal.
This nationally accredited qualification provides essential training in the operation and maintenance of marine engines and auxiliary equipment on vessels with propulsion power up to 500 kW. It is ideal for those working on commercial vessels who are responsible for engine room operations and mechanical systems under limited supervision.
Training covers key competencies such as:
You’ll gain hands-on experience with real-world engine operations and learn the safety protocols necessary for efficient and compliant vessel performance.
The course also meets the requirements set out by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) for certification as a Marine Engine Driver Grade 3 Near Coastal, subject to additional sea service and final AMSA assessment.
Whether you’re just entering the maritime industry or looking to upgrade your current qualifications, this course is your launchpad into a practical and respected marine engineering role.
While formal prerequisites can vary slightly between training providers, general entry requirements include:
You must typically be at least 16 years old to enrol. However, AMSA certification will require you to be 18 years or older at the time of final assessment and sea service completion.
As this is a physically demanding role, you must have a reasonable level of fitness and mobility to carry out tasks such as lifting, climbing, and operating machinery.
While not required to start the course, you will need to complete a minimum of 180 days of sea service to be eligible for the Marine Engine Driver Grade 3 Near Coastal certificate of competency issued by AMSA.
You must provide a USI to enrol and receive a nationally recognised Statement of Attainment.
The MR20424 Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Marine Engine Driver Grade 3 Near Coastal) is designed for individuals who are seeking to enter or advance in the maritime industry by gaining skills in marine engine operation and maintenance.
Graduates of this course are qualified to work as Marine Engine Drivers Grade 3 Near Coastal, with the skills to operate and maintain machinery and systems on commercial vessels operating within Australia’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). Career options include:
This certification is a stepping stone to more advanced roles, such as:
This course is perfect for those looking to start or progress in a hands-on maritime career, particularly in sectors like commercial fishing, marine tourism, ports and harbour operations, and offshore support services.
Upon successful completion of this course, participants will be able to:
The packaging rules for the MR20424 Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Marine Engine Driver Grade 3 Near Coastal) are designed to ensure that learners complete the required units of competency to gain the necessary skills and knowledge for certification.
Total Units Required:
Core Units:
Elective Units:
There are no elective units for this qualification. All units are core, ensuring a focused curriculum.
To successfully complete the course, participants must demonstrate competency in both theoretical knowledge and practical skills related to marine engine operations. Assessment methods usually include:
Multiple-choice and short-answer questions
Focuses on:
Marine engine systems and components
Safety procedures and regulations
Emergency protocols
Maintenance and operational theory
Hands-on demonstrations of:
Starting, operating, and shutting down marine engines
Performing routine maintenance and minor repairs
Operating fuel, lubrication, cooling, and power transmission systems
Managing machinery emergencies and using firefighting equipment
These may take place in simulated environments, training vessels, or onboard actual working vessels.
Trainer or assessor will observe:
Safe work practices and PPE usage
Communication and teamwork on board
Compliance with marine safety standards
You may be required to complete a training record book or engine room logbook, documenting tasks performed during training or onboard experience.
While this course leads toward AMSA certification, to obtain your Marine Engine Driver Grade 3 Near Coastal licence, you’ll also need to:
Upon successful completion of the MR20424 Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Marine Engine Driver Grade 3 Near Coastal), the following accreditation and awards are typically provided:
Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Marine Engine Driver Grade 3 Near Coastal)
This nationally recognised qualification is issued under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF), certifying the completion of the required competencies to work as a Marine Engine Driver Grade 3 on vessels with up to 500 kW propulsion within the Near Coastal Zone.
Statement of Attainment
If you have completed units that are part of the qualification but not the entire course, you may receive a Statement of Attainment for the specific units completed.
AMSA Marine Engine Driver Grade 3 Near Coastal Certificate of Competency
To work as a certified Marine Engine Driver, you will need to complete a minimum of 180 days of sea service and pass an oral examination conducted by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA).
After fulfilling these requirements, AMSA will issue the Marine Engine Driver Grade 3 Near Coastal Certificate.
The Certificate II provides the foundational skills and knowledge needed for working in marine engine operations, and once you’ve gained the necessary sea service and passed the AMSA assessment, you can work as a Marine Engine Driver on near-coastal commercial vessels.
All learners have the right to apply for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) for any course or unit in which they are currently enrolled. However, RPL applications will only be accepted for units of competency or qualifications that fall within Serco Defence RTO’s scope of registration. While learners may submit an RPL application at any time, it is recommended that applications be made prior to the commencement of training. RPL assessments will be conducted in accordance with the principles of assessment and the rules of evidence and may only be granted for entire units of competency. For further details, please refer to the Student Handbook.
Full-Time Delivery:
Approximately 4 to 6 weeks (including theory, practical training, and assessments)
Part-Time or Flexible Delivery:
Around 8 to 12 weeks, depending on schedule and training structure
Blended Delivery (Online + Practical Blocks):
Theory may be completed online at your own pace, followed by in-person practical components over a 1–2 week block
Sea Service Requirement: To be eligible for AMSA certification as a Marine Engine Driver Grade 3 (NC), you must also complete a minimum amount of sea service, typically at least 180 days, which is separate from the course itself.
Final AMSA Assessment: After completing the course and meeting sea service requirements, learners must also complete an AMSA oral examination.
Interested in this course, register your interest below and we will let you know when this course is available.
If you have any questions related to the MAR20424 Certificate II in Maritime Operations please contact us on our enquiry form here.
