Chief Engineer’s Cabin

The chief engineer, often referred to simply as “The Chief”, enjoyed both an office and a separate bunk compartment.  The chief engineer was responsible for all of the ship’s machinery, and like the captain did not stand a watch.  The day-to-day operation of the engine room was overseen by the ship’s three assistant engineers, but the chief could be reached in his quarters by way of a simple voice tube if any questions arose.  The chief had a full set of documentation for the ship’s structure and machinery stored in his office, and would utilize this material to plan and supervise any repair work that was required.  The Coast Guard still requires a licensed engineer to be on duty whenever the ship’s boilers are in operation.