Money situation
Due to their size and hybrid status, ESBs are one of the highest paying ships in the fleet. The overtime budgets are up to the discretion of the Chief Engineer and Chief Mate. The overtime budget on an ESB is not a standard Maintenance and Repair (M&R) budget. In fact, an M&R budget does not exist on the ESB’s. It is entirely an operations budget. Depending on the current mission and who is onboard, ESBs conduct small boat operations and or flight quarters at all hours of the day. Additionally, the Navy is very lax with their hours of work which means you will likely work at odd hours and through meals, all of which increase your overtime earnings.
For the Deck Department
Deck Officers:
The JP-5 carried on board does not count as cargo since it is owned by the Navy after loading, and it is used for End-Use re-fueling. So, receiving a PIC (Person in Charge Fuel Endorsement) is not possible for any loads or discharges performed while on this platform.
The ESB platform has 31 ballast tanks that hold millions of gallons of water. Please note, this may be an added challenge for stability.
For the Engine Department
Attention all Engine Department personnel, there are no elevators on board, not even for the engine room. ESBs are very tall and have A LOT of stairs along with 2 engine rooms and 2 pump rooms. You will get your steps in.
The typical MSC hybrid arrangement is that MSC takes care of the physical ship. So note that the 2 houses onboard have separate habitability systems, but MSC will maintain both.
There are 4 cranes onboard and MSC has custody of them. In addition to operating the cranes, MSC is responsible for their maintenance.
ESBs have only 1 UNREP fuel receiving station.
For the Supply Department
ESB Supply Departments are limited, there is only a JSO and an ASK. As a result, the JSO will be the de-facto MSC Supply Officer and need to assume department head duties. There will also be Navy Supply personnel on board. Be sure to know the separation of duties and what MSC is and is not responsible for as it pertains to ordering and issuing supplies.
In terms of Food Service, there will be limited galley personnel. There will be a Steward Cook heading the day-to-day galley operation. If you are a JSO, you may want to brush up on Food Service Operations before heading to an ESB just in case.
Other Important Information
These ships are large and uniquely designed. As a result, these ships rock and roll a lot. If you get seasick easily, this may not be the platform for you. Additionally, some MSC Mariners dislike hybrid crew ships due to the required working relationship with the Navy.
As a general rule, the Navy personnel and Navy at large will always be credited for the work/mission despite MSC Mariner playing a large role. This many not bother some people, and you may be happy to count your money and move along; however, if you are looking for recognition and status, it probably isn’t going to come.
What to Read Next
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