How to transition into LNG shipping as a Fourth Engineer?
Hi all, looking for some guidance from people who've made this move.
I'm currently sailing as a Fourth Engineer with about 12 months of sea time so far, currently on a gas carrier (VLEC) with dual-fuel ME-GI engine exposure. I'm preparing for my next class/COC exam right now and want to start planning ahead for a long-term move into LNG specifically.
A few things I'm trying to figure out:
What's the realistic path from where I am to getting onto LNG carriers?
Do companies prefer promoting internally from LPG/ethane backgrounds, or is LNG mostly closed off unless you've sailed on it before?
Any specific certifications or courses (beyond STCW gas tanker familiarization) that make a candidate stand out for LNG?
Companies/manning agents known for taking on engineers without prior LNG experience and training them up?
Roughly how long did it take you to get your first LNG contract, and what rank were you at?
Would really appreciate hearing from anyone who's walked this path, especially engineers who moved from Ethane into LNG. Thanks in advance!