Have you ever seen a cargo ship gliding across the horizon and wondered what goes on inside? These modern marvels carry most of the world's traded goods, but life onboard can seem like a complete mystery to many individuals. Today, we're cracking the code and exploring the world of the crew members who keep Canadian cargo vessels running smoothly.

Want a sneak peek at what it's like to be on board a large vessel in Canada? Click here for a virtual ship tour!

Being part of a crew is very much a team sport, with each position having a vital role. The strong sense of camaraderie and teamwork onboard creates a close-knit community. Here's a look into some key positions:

Marine Navigation Officers: Picture them as the ship's managers. They're responsible for everything from navigating the ship safely using sophisticated technology to overseeing cargo operations and ensuring the crew follows safety protocols. Marine navigation officers on Canadian ships have different ranks starting at third mate, second mate and chief officer all the way up to the captain, each with different responsibilities to ensure the smooth running of the whole voyage.

Marine Engineering Officers: The engine room is their domain! These highly skilled professionals keep the ship's engines and other mechanical systems running impeccably. Marine engineering officers also have different ranks starting from fourth, third, and second engineer all the way up to chief engineer. In particular, the chief engineer oversees the vessel and the engine room’s operations as well as takes care of all mechanical and electrical systems on board.

Ratings: These skilled seafarers play a key role tackling various important jobs across all departments:

Able-Bodied Seafarers (AB): These crew members take on this position after obtaining a Bridge Watch Rating (BWR) certificate. They can act as helmsman or lookout, and during cargo operations, they perform deck duties as directed by the Officer of the Watch. They also serve as watchkeepers, monitoring the ship's course and systems, and responding to emergencies as needed.

Ordinary Seafarers (OS): Under instructions, these crew members perform the overall maintenance of the vessel such as chipping, painting, washing, cleaning, and greasing of all the equipment on board. The O/S is an entry-level position, and their duties vary depending on the ship and the needs of the crew.

Chief Cook & Second Cook: Often referred to as the most important positions of all on a cargo ship! The chief cook is responsible for managing the galley, preparing menus, as well as inventory control, food safety and making sure that everybody on board the ship is well-fed at all times. The Second Cook reports to the Chief Cook and is mainly responsible for the pastry preparations in the kitchen as well as any other assigned functions.

Mechanical Assistants/Engine Room Ratings: These crew members maintain temperatures, pressures and proper oil and water levels in the engine room of the vessel. The engine room rating holds an engine room certificate.

Tunnelman/Cargo Handler: Often responsible for securing the ship’s cargo and getting it where it needs to go, the Tunnelman reports to and acts as instructed by the Head Tunnelman.

Electrician: The ship’s electrician is responsible for the installation, maintenance and repair of the ship's electrical systems and equipment. They report to the chief engineer and work closely with other members of the engineering team.