A chief engineer, commonly referred to as "Chief" or "ChEng", is the most senior licensed mariner of an engine department on a ship, typically a merchant ship, and holds overall leadership and the responsibility of that department. In rank, a chief engineer is equivalent to the rank of a ship's captain. A chief engineer has a strong technical expertise and therefore they have numerous shore jobs opportunities and are not just bounded to sail. They can become technical superintendents, fleet managers, surveyors, ship builders etc. As a person who holds one of the most senior roles on the ship, they must have excellent communication and leadership skills. They are expected to regularly work alongside other crew members and external consultants, and most importantly, provide guidance to their team.