U.S. Coast Guard National Radio Officer and STCW GMDSS Radio Operator Requirements
Narional Radio Officer is a merchant mariner rating who helps to monitor and keep track of the communications aspect in a ship and is responsible for all of the cruise ship’s radio and other communications, including satellite hookups, Marisat communications, faxes and telegraph. Radio officers also get regular reports about the weather in the oceanic and sea areas where the ship is positioned.
They are an integral part of the merchant marine, cruising ships, drilling platforms and more. They are also in charge of the emergency boats and life vests. Modern ships comply with GMDSS (Global Maritime Distress) communication standards, which no longer require that a radio officer is aboard all ships when they sail.
The role of a GMDSS Radio Operator have primary responsibility for radio communications during distress incidents. GMDSS is an internationally agreed set of safety procedures, equipment types and communication protocols that are used to increase safety and make it easier to rescue distressed vessels and help establish strong communication between the control room and the ships or marine aircrafts.
- USCG National Radio Officer
- USCG STCW Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) RadioOperator
- You may also read: IMO STCW GMDSS Radio Operator Requirements
Radio Officer is a merchant marine rating who helps to monitor and keep track of the communications aspect in a ship and a GMDSS Radio Operator is responsible for efficiently operating the GMDSS equipment
Radio Officer & GMDSS Radio Operator General Requirements
- Age: 19
- U.S. Citizenship
- Medical Certificate
USCG National Radio Officer Requirements
Original Radio Officer Endorsement
- Must present a current Radiotelegraph Operator License (T) issued by the FCC; AND
- The applicant MUST enter on the application form the following information:
- FCC License number
- Class
- Date of issuance of FCC license.
- Include on the MMC: Ordinary Seaman, Wiper and Stewards Department (FH)
Other Requirements
- First Aid
- CPR
Renewal Requirements
- Present a currently valid 1st or 2nd class radiotelegraph operator OR
- A currently valid Radiotelegraph Operator License (T) issued by the FCC
USCG STCW GMDSS Radio Operator Requirements
Professional Requirements
- GMDSS Radio Operator: Must present a certificate of completion from a Coast Guard approved course for operator of radio in GMDSS meeting the requirements of section A-IV/2 of the STCW
- Optional: Basic Training or Continued Competency not required (if provided endorsed with VI/1and list as capacity)
Disclaimer: For general information purpose - please check with USCG for the latest requirements and accurate info