(a) The minimum service required to qualify an applicant for endorsement as second assistant engineer of steam, motor, and/or gas turbine-propelled vessels is—

(1) One year of service as an assistant engineer, while holding a license or MMC endorsement as third assistant engineer; or

(2) One year of service while holding a license or MMC endorsement as third assistant engineer, which includes—

(i) A minimum of 6 months of service as third assistant engineer; and

(ii) Additional service as a qualified member of the engine department, calculated on a two-for-one basis.

(b) A person holding this endorsement may qualify for an STCW endorsement, according to §§11.327, 11.329, and 11.333 of this part.