When and how will I receive my certificate?

Your certificate will be sent to the email address provided at the time of enrolment. You can also download a copy of your certificate from the aXcelerate learner portal. Certificates are typically issued within 24 hours of successful course completion; however, please allow up to three business days for processing.

What if I need extra support?

We are committed to providing an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all participants. If you have any learning difficulties or require additional support, please let us know as early as possible, ideally at the time of enrolment. Our team can work with you to make reasonable adjustments to the training and assessment process to ensure your individual needs are met. This may include additional time, alternative formats, or tailored support strategies.

What if I am experiencing difficulty with assessment items?

If you are experiencing difficulty with any assessment item, our team is available to provide support. Please contact us via email and include your preferred contact number and the best time to reach you. A member of our team will be in touch shortly.

What if I can't participate in a practical demonstration due to an injury or condition?

We understand that some participants may have physical limitations or injuries that could impact their ability to perform certain components of CPR and First Aid training, such as kneeling or conducting compressions. If you have any concerns about your ability to participate fully, please let us know prior to your practical workshop. We can discuss alternatives to ensure that your individual needs are considered.

Chart Your Course to Success with Marine Engine Driver Grade 2 Certification!

MAR30824 Certificate III in Maritime OperationsMarine Engine Driver Grade 2 Near Coastal

Course
Duration

6 weeks

Delivery
Location

Serco Employee Workplace

Official
Recognition

MAR30824 Certificate III in Maritime Operations Overview

The MR30824 Certificate III in Maritime Operations (Marine Engine Driver Grade 2 Near Coastal) is a nationally recognized qualification designed for individuals who wish to advance their career as a Marine Engine Driver Grade 2. This qualification is ideal for those looking to work in more senior roles within the engine room of commercial vessels operating up to 750 kW propulsion power in near-coastal waters.

Throughout this course, you will develop the technical skills and knowledge required to safely and efficiently operate and maintain marine internal combustion engines and associated systems. You will learn advanced troubleshooting, emergency response techniques, and how to manage machinery in a variety of maritime environments.

The course combines theoretical knowledge with practical, hands-on training, covering essential areas such as:

Operating and maintaining propulsion systems
Monitoring engine performance and machinery systems
Responding to machinery breakdowns and emergencies
Managing safety and environmental compliance on board
Supervising engine room operations and crew

By the end of the course, you will have the skills required to confidently operate and maintain complex marine systems, manage engine room safety, and provide leadership in engine room teams. This qualification also meets the requirements for AMSA (Australian Maritime Safety Authority) certification as a Marine Engine Driver Grade 2 for vessels operating within Near Coastal Zones.

Entry Requirements

Minimum Age
- Applicants must be at least 18 years of age to obtain the necessary AMSA certification as a Marine Engine Driver Grade 2.

Language, Literacy, and Numeracy (LLN)
- A reasonable level of language, literacy, and numeracy skills is required. This ensures that learners can comprehend and complete the theoretical components of the course, follow safety procedures, and complete assessments accurately. Some RTOs may require a pre-enrolment LLN assessment.

Physical Fitness
- As this qualification involves practical work in marine environments, learners should have a satisfactory level of physical fitness to perform tasks such as lifting, climbing, and working in confined spaces or engine rooms.

Sea Service Requirement
- While you can start the course without sea service, to achieve AMSA certification as a Marine Engine Driver Grade 2, you must complete a minimum of 180 days of sea service on a vessel with up to 750 kW propulsion power. This requirement can be fulfilled while undertaking the course or afterward.

Unique Student Identifier (USI)
- All learners must have a Unique Student Identifier (USI) to enrol in nationally recognised training in Australia.

Pre-existing Maritime Qualifications or Experience (Optional)
- While not mandatory, applicants who already hold qualifications like Certificate II in Maritime Operations or have prior maritime experience (e.g., deckhand or assistant engineer) may have a smoother transition into this course.
- Experience in basic engine maintenance or operating marine engines can be beneficial but is not required to start the course.

AMSA Medical and Certificate of Competency Requirements
- To qualify for AMSA certification after the course, you may need to provide evidence of meeting AMSA’s medical fitness standards (a maritime medical examination may be required). This ensures that you are physically capable of working safely in engine room and maritime environments.

Additional Requirements for Completion:

Completion of the theoretical coursework and practical assessments.
Sea service and successful completion of the AMSA oral exam for the Marine Engine Driver Grade 2 certification.

Target Audience

The MR30824 Certificate III in Maritime Operations (Marine Engine Driver Grade 2 Near Coastal) is designed for individuals who are looking to advance their careers in the maritime industry, specifically in engine room operations. This qualification is suitable for those who wish to take on more responsibility and enhance their skills in operating and maintaining marine engines on vessels operating up to 750 kW propulsion power in near-coastal waters.

Aspiring Marine Engine Drivers

Individuals seeking to become a Marine Engine Driver Grade 2 on commercial vessels, gaining the technical skills and certification to work in near-coastal waters.

Current Deckhands or Marine Crew

Deckhands or other maritime crew members who wish to upskill and move into engine room roles, managing machinery and engine systems as part of their career progression.

Those Seeking Career Advancement in Maritime Engineering

People already working in marine roles who wish to take the next step in their careers and become more involved in engine operations, maintenance, and management of engine room systems.

Those Looking for a Career in Marine Engineering

Individuals new to the maritime industry, specifically those interested in marine engineering and operation, who want a career in commercial shipping, fishing, or tourism vessels.

Engineers or Technicians from Related Fields

Mechanical, electrical, or industrial technicians who want to transition into marine operations, using their existing engineering skills to work on vessels and engine systems.

Maritime Business Owners and Operators

People who operate charter boats, tour vessels, or small commercial vessels and need the certification to meet industry regulations and ensure safe engine room operations.

This qualification is ideal for those who want to develop their marine engineering skills, take on supervisory roles in engine room operations, and work in a variety of maritime sectors.

Career Opportunities

Marine Engine Driver Grade 2 (Near Coastal)
- Work as a Marine Engine Driver Grade 2 operating vessels with propulsion power up to 750 kW in near-coastal waters.
- Take on responsibilities for engine room operations, machinery maintenance, troubleshooting, and overall vessel performance.

Assistant Marine Engineer
- Support senior engineers or work independently on vessels, ensuring the safe operation and maintenance of engine systems and machinery.

Second Engineer
- Take on the role of a Second Engineer aboard larger vessels, assisting in managing engine operations and supervising engine room staff.

Chief Engineer (Assistant/Understudy)
- With further experience and sea service, you may work towards higher engineering roles, such as Chief Engineer, overseeing all engine room operations on larger vessels.

Deck and Engine Room Supervisor
- Oversee deckhands and junior engine room crew members, ensuring the efficient operation of machinery, adherence to safety protocols, and smooth running of the engine room.

Marine Vessel Operator
- Work on commercial vessels, such as fishing boats, cargo ships, tourism vessels, or oil and gas support vessels, ensuring engine performance is up to standard and safe operations are maintained.

Pathway to Advanced Certifications
- The Certificate III provides a pathway toward more advanced certifications, such as Marine Engine Driver Grade 1 Near Coastal or Chief Engineer, with additional experience and qualifications.

Industries You Could Work In:

Commercial shipping
Fishing and aquaculture
Tourism and charter vessels
Offshore oil and gas support
Ports and harbours
Tug and workboats

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, participants will be able to:

Operate Marine Internal Combustion Engines

Safely start, operate, and shut down propulsion systems and auxiliary engines up to 750 kW.
Monitor engine performance and ensure systems are functioning efficiently.

Maintain Marine Engine Systems

Conduct regular maintenance, troubleshooting, and repairs on marine engines and related systems, ensuring minimal downtime and optimal performance.
Implement preventive maintenance strategies to extend the lifespan of engine systems.

Manage Engine Room Operations

Oversee engine room operations, including supervising crew members and coordinating engine room maintenance schedules.
Ensure engine room operations comply with safety and regulatory standards.

Respond to Emergency Situations

Apply emergency procedures to manage engine room failures, fire incidents, fuel leaks, or other critical situations.
Use firefighting equipment, control machinery in emergency conditions, and ensure crew safety during incidents.

Ensure Compliance with Safety and Environmental Regulations

Understand and comply with Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) regulations, environmental laws, and workplace health and safety standards.
Implement best practices for marine pollution prevention and safe engine operations.

Monitor Engine Performance and Systems

Continuously assess the performance of marine engines, including fuel consumption, power output, and overall system health.
Adjust operating parameters to maintain efficiency and reduce emissions.

Communicate Effectively with Crew and Supervisors

Use maritime communication protocols to relay information clearly within the crew and with other departments.
Supervise and train junior engine room staff, ensuring safe and efficient operation.

Apply Maritime Engineering Principles

Apply knowledge of mechanical, electrical, and fluid systems in the maintenance and operation of marine engines.
Troubleshoot and resolve mechanical or electrical issues within engine systems.

Outcomes in the Workplace

By completing this qualification, learners will be equipped to work effectively in roles such as Marine Engine Driver, Second Engineer, or Assistant Engineer on commercial vessels operating in near-coastal zones. They will also be ready to handle responsibilities in engine room supervision, machinery maintenance, emergency response, and compliance with maritime safety regulations.

Accredited Units

The packaging rules for the MR30824 Certificate III in Maritime Operations (Marine Engine Driver Grade 2 Near Coastal) specify the number of units that need to be completed to achieve the qualification, and how those units are structured (core and electives). The packaging rules ensure that learners are fully equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary for marine engine operation and maintenance in near-coastal waters.

Packaging Rules for MR30824 Certificate III in Maritime Operations (Marine Engine Driver Grade 2 Near Coastal)

Total Units Required:

A total of 14 units must be completed to achieve this qualification.

Core Units:

12 core units (mandatory units) that cover essential maritime operations, including engine operation and maintenance, safety procedures, emergency response, and communication skills.

Elective Units:

2 elective units which can be selected from a range of available units, based on the learner’s career interests and requirements. Elective units allow for some specialization and the development of additional competencies in specific areas of maritime operations.

Competency Requirements:

All core units are mandatory, and learners must successfully demonstrate competency in these areas.
Elective units must be selected in consultation with the training provider to ensure that they align with industry requirements and the learner’s career path.

Please find core units outlined below:

MARB002 - Operate Marine Internal Combustion Engines
MARB003 - Maintain Marine Engine Systems
MARB004 - Monitor Engine Room Operations
MARB005 - Respond to Machinery Breakdown or Failure
MARB006 - Manage Engine Room Safety
MARB007 - Conduct Emergency Drills and Procedures
MARB008 - Ensure Environmental Compliance in Engine Room Operations
MARB009 - Perform Fault Diagnosis and Rectify Faults in Engine Systems
MARB010 - Operate and Maintain Auxiliary Systems
MARB011 - Apply Maritime Communication Techniques
MARB012 - Contribute to Safe Operations of Vessels
MARB013 - Apply Leadership in Engine Room Operations

Assessment

The assessment requirements for the MR30824 Certificate III in Maritime Operations (Marine Engine Driver Grade 2 Near Coastal) are designed to ensure that learners have both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to safely operate and maintain marine engine systems. Assessments are conducted through a combination of practical tasks, theoretical exams, and on-the-job assessments.

Assessment Requirements for MR30824 Certificate III in Maritime Operations (Marine Engine Driver Grade 2 Near Coastal):

Theory-Based Assessments

Written Tests and Quizzes: Learners will be assessed on their understanding of maritime principles, engine operations, safety protocols, and environmental regulations.
Knowledge Questions: Questions may cover topics such as machinery maintenance, safety management, engine monitoring, and emergency response procedures.
Case Studies and Scenarios: Learners may be given case studies or scenarios to assess their ability to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world situations.

Practical Assessments

Simulations and Demonstrations: Practical assessments are often conducted in controlled environments (e.g., engine room simulators) or on real vessels where learners must demonstrate their ability to:
- Operate and maintain marine internal combustion engines.
- Monitor engine room systems and perform troubleshooting tasks.
- Respond to engine room emergencies such as fires, fuel leaks, or equipment malfunctions.
Practical Skill Checks: Assessors will observe learners performing specific tasks, such as starting engines, adjusting machinery, and conducting maintenance or repairs.

On-the-Job Assessment (Sea Service)

Learners must complete a minimum of 180 days of sea service (in an operational role) to fulfill AMSA certification requirements. During this period, learners will demonstrate competency in:
- Operating marine engines under various conditions.
- Applying safety protocols in the engine room.
- Supervising engine room personnel.
The sea service is typically documented and verified by an employer or training provider.

Portfolio of Evidence

Learners may be required to maintain a portfolio of evidence documenting their practical experiences, sea service, and completed tasks. This may include reports, logs, and supervisor feedback on performance.

Oral Exam (AMSA Requirement)

After completing the course and the required sea service, learners will need to pass an oral exam conducted by the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA). This exam assesses the learner’s understanding of the technical and safety aspects of operating marine engines and their readiness to work as a Marine Engine Driver Grade 2.

Assessment Methods:

Direct observation (of practical tasks performed in the field or simulated environments).
Written assessments (multiple-choice, short-answer questions, or essays).
Practical demonstrations (onboard a vessel or in a controlled setting).
Third-party reports (from employers or supervisors verifying on-the-job tasks and performance).

Competency-Based Assessment

The course uses a competency-based assessment model, meaning learners must demonstrate that they can perform tasks to a satisfactory standard, as outlined in the unit of competency. Competency is determined by the assessor based on whether the learner has met the required skills and knowledge in both theory and practice.

Certification

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:

Accreditation Awarded:

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.

Additional Certification Requirements (AMSA):

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.

Recognition of Prior Learning

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.

Duration

Full-Time Delivery:

6 to 12 months of structured training, including both theoretical study and practical assessments. This often includes on-the-job training or sea service time as part of the qualification requirements.

Part-Time or Flexible Delivery:

12 to 18 months, depending on how much time the learner can commit to the course. This option is ideal for those already working in maritime roles who wish to learn and gain experience while continuing their employment.

Blended Delivery (Online + Practical Blocks):

Theory components may be completed online or in a classroom setting, while practical assessments and sea service hours are completed in intensive blocks. The duration for this approach can range from 6 months to 1 year.

Additional Considerations:

Sea Service Requirement: To achieve AMSA certification as a Marine Engine Driver Grade 2, learners must complete a minimum of 180 days of sea service, which is typically gained after completing the classroom training.
Final AMSA Examination: After completing the course and sea service, learners must pass an oral examination conducted by AMSA to receive their official certification.

Delivery Locations

Please note that due to the specialised content and training requirements, all maritime courses are currently only available exclusively to Serco employees. For further enquiries, feel free to contact sercorto@serco-ap.com.

Serco Employee Workplace

Course Essentials

Interested in this course?

Interested in this course, register your interest below and we will let you know when this course is available.

Nationally Accredited

11001NAT Course in Tug Boat Operations

Gain practical skills in towing, berthing, and maneuvering with the 11001NAT Tug Boat Operations course. This nationally recognised training prepares qualified mariners for real-world tug operations through hands-on learning. Ideal for professionals aiming to advance in tugboat handling and near-coastal vessel control.

Nationally Accredited

MSMWHS201 Conduct Hazard Analysis

In this course, you’ll learn how to identify, assess, and control hazards in the workplace. Understand key hazard analysis techniques to reduce risks and improve safety. Learn to apply risk management strategies to ensure a safe working environment. This course covers both theoretical principles and practical application. Gain confidence in conducting hazard analysis and recommending safety improvements. By the end, you’ll be equipped to contribute to a safer, more compliant workplace.

Nationally Accredited

MSMPER300 Issue Work Permits

Learn how to issue work permits with accuracy and confidence. Ensure safety, compliance, and clear communication on every job site. Understand different permit types and when to apply them. MSMPER300 gives you the skills to authorise work the right way.

Nationally Accredited

MARSS00008 Shipboard Safety Skill Set

Maritime

This course equips maritime personnel with practical safety skills in emergency response, firefighting, life-saving procedures, and hazardous materials handling. Ideal for all experience levels, it promotes a safety-first approach essential for managing risks at sea.

Nationally Accredited

MAR30924 Certificate III in Maritime Operations

Maritime

Gain the skills to operate and maintain marine engines up to 750 kW in near-coastal waters. This hands-on course covers troubleshooting, maintenance, safety, crew supervision, and emergency response—ideal for those pursuing AMSA certification as a Marine Engine Driver Grade 2 or roles like Marine Engineer.

Nationally Accredited

MAR20424 Certificate II in Maritime Operations

Marine Engine Driver Grade 3 Near Coastal

Maritime

This course provides the essential skills and knowledge to operate and maintain marine engines on vessels up to 500 kW within the EEZ. Designed for those pursuing a career as a Marine Engine Driver Grade 3, this nationally recognised qualification combines theory with practical training to teach mechanical operations, routine checks, maintenance, troubleshooting, and safe use of deck machinery. It’s an ideal starting point or upgrade path for a dynamic maritime career.

Nationally Accredited

MAR10224 Certificate I in Maritime Operations

General Purpose Hand

Set sail on your maritime career with the MAR10224 Certificate I in Maritime Operations. This entry-level qualification is designed for individuals seeking to work as a General Purpose Hand (GPH) on vessels operating in Australian coastal waters. Gain the practical skills and safety knowledge required to assist with deck or engine room operations under supervision and prepare for a range of exciting opportunities in the maritime industry.