Difference between revisions of "Chain of Command"

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The chain of command represents how orders are distributed throughout the station. It is part of a power structure: usually seen as the most vulnerable and also the most powerful part of it. Starting from the most authorized, the Captain, through the Head of some Department, down to the lowliest subordinate to finally accomplish the task needed, in order to make the station function as efficiently as possible.
The chain of command represents how orders are distributed throughout the ship. It is part of a power structure: usually seen as the most vulnerable and also the most powerful part of it. Starting from the most authorized, the Captain, through the Head of Department, down to the lowliest subordinate to finally accomplish the task needed, in order to make the ship function as efficiently as possible.


The Heads should '''not''' start doing the simplest tasks themselves unless the station's already beyond saving.
The Heads should '''not''' start doing the simplest tasks themselves unless the ship's already beyond saving.


'''Notice:'''
'''Heads can demote their department staff at any time. To do this, use the [[File:Id_console.gif]] ID console with either the [[Executive Officer]] or [[Captain]]'s access to demote the staff member to suspended or assistant.'''
'''So if one of your subordinates isn't acting like an appropriate team player, don't hesitate to show them who's boss.'''


'''[[File:Id_console.gif]] Notice:'''


'''Heads can demote their staff by using the [[Identification Console]] and removing the subordinate's access to their department from their ID.'''
[[File:Job tree3.png|1191px|The chain of command]]


'''So if one of your guys isn't acting like an appropriate team player, don't hesitate to show them who's boss.'''
'''Note: The Merchant only holds authority on their own vessel. Outside of their vessel, they hold NO AUTHORITY.'''
 
 
[[File:Job tree3.png|1191px|The station hierarchy]]


==Heads of Staff==
==Heads of Staff==
[[File:Bridge small.png|thumb|300px|The Bridge, safe heaven of the Heads.]]
'''A.K.A. the command staff.''' These are the peoples charged with the administration of the ship. Each of them have general access to each department and the Bridge, the keycard authentication devices, the command radio channel (accessed with :c), the ability to make ship-wide announcements, the ability to change alert level, and <s>cool uniforms</s> fax machines.
'''A.K.A. the command staff.''' These are the men and women charged with the administration of the station. Each of them have access to the [[Bridge]] and [[Brig]], the keycard authentication devices, the command radio channel (accessed with :c), the ability to make station-wide announcements, access to identification consoles and may call/recall the [[Escape Shuttle]] using a communications console. They are also the targets during a [[Revolution]].


===[[File:Generic captain.png|64px]] [[Captain]]===
===[[File:Captain-nbt.png|64px]] [[Captain]]===
The Commanding Officer with authority over the entire station. Eventually dies and has the Head of Personnel take over. Limited only by style - Just don't forget the [[High-risk_items#Nuclear_authentication_disk|disk]].
The Commanding Officer with authority over the entire ship. They are the ultimate decision maker.
The only position that can issue death warrants without a trial.


'''Duties:''' The primary duty of the Captain is to keep the ship and her crew safe and functioning. Their actions are expected to be in the best interest of crew, ship, and SCC. The secondary duty is to achieve ship and SCC goals. The way in which a captain satisfies these duties are dependent on each individual captain, however the recommended and primary path is with delegation to other Command staff to leave external interactions (i.e. ship to ship communication) and higher level decisions with their role.


'''Required knowledge:''' How the AI works. What other Heads should be doing.
===[[File:Executiveofficer-nbt.png|64px]] [[Executive Officer]]===
The Executive Officer is the head of staff for the Bridge and Service department. They manage the ship finances alongside the captain, as well as handle any ID modifications. However, they are '''not''' Second in Command to the captain, '''nor''' immediate acting captain in an emergency.


'''Round-start to-do list:''' Check in with your Heads of Staff. Secure the nuclear authorization disk and give the pinpointer to [[Janitor|someone trustworthy]] for maximum safety.
'''Duties:'''The primary duties of the Executive Officer are to manage the Service Department and Bridge. This will usually require decisions in regard to ship destination, external communication, and managing vessel shuttles. During ship-based combat, the Executive Officer takes on primary role of coordinating the various Bridge stations, as well as communication with Operations and the Operations Manager to coordinate ammunition and weapons loading.


'''Main tasks:''' Making sure your heads are doing their jobs, figure out what needs to be done and delegate. Keep the disk close to you.  
Secondary Duties include managing the ship's finances, the modification of IDs where necessary, and offering guidance to the Security Department in absence of the Head of Security.


'''Main problems:''' Many [[high-risk items]] start in your office or directly in your possession. And your shiny gold id card is coveted by almost every troublemaker. Expect many attempts to be made on your life for these things.
===[[File:Headofsecurity-nbt.png|64px]] [[Head of Security]]===
The commander of the ship's security team. The master of [[Corporate Regulations]] and enforcer of <s>justice</s> peace. Arguably the second most stressful position behind the captain, the Head of Security handles all matters pertaining to the operation of the security department and the safety of the ship.


===[[File:Generic hop.png|64px]] [[Head of Personnel]]===
'''Duties:''' The primary duties of the Head of Security is to protect SCC assets aboard the ship, including the crew and the ship itself. To achieve this, the Head of Security organizes and commands the security department to address threats quickly and efficiently. The secondary duty of the Head of Security is to maintain order within the crew through the Corporate Regulations. This may include dealing with [[Traitor|problematic staff]] including other command staff who break regulations.
Equal rank with all other non-captain Heads of Staff. Becomes acting Captain if the original Captain is dead or MIA. Responsible for staffing and HR-related duties.
Authority over the civil department, including the [[Janitor]], [[Chef]], [[Barman]], [[Assistant]]s, [[Chaplain]], [[Librarian]], and [[Botanist]]s.


The Head of Personnel can either be a Godsend or worse than a banana-flinging botanist for the station. He can also savor the prestige or feel shackled to the [[Computers#ID_Modification_Console|ID computer]]. If you find yourself wearing teal, make the most of it by doing your job correctly.
===[[File:Researchdirector-nbt.png|64px]] [[Research Director]]===
The Research Director is the head of the science department. While not expected to be intimate with every field of science within their department, the Director is often looked to for information and assistance on anything new, unknown, or scientific. Maintenance of the [[AI]] also falls under the oversight of the Research Director as they are the only command member, other than Captains who were previous in the position, who knows how to reset and change the AI core.


'''1. Support the Captain.'''
'''Duties:''' The primary duties of the Research Director is to give guidance to [[Scientist]]s. This may include department wide projects, inter-departmental projects (such as with medical for medicine development), and planning out trips on the Intrepid to support the [[Xenoarcheologist]]. Secondary duties are focused on maintaining the AI. This may include resetting the AI's laws in the event they are tampered with, or changing the AI lawset to a new version if it is required.


Always be on the captain's side, at least publicly. Remember that since you'll take up his banner if, or more often when, he's slain, you're the ''de facto'' second in command. Be sure to work as a team to lead the crew. If he's demanding, be persuasive. If he's soft-spoken, be a task-master. This means anyone annoyed at his leadership style will likely follow yours, but it also means he has to trust you. Earn this trust by making frequent use of command chat (:c) and deferring to him on matters of great importance, like assigning new Heads or calling the shuttle. Recognize, however, that you do not outrank any other Heads of Staff. You are simply sitting at the Captain's right hand, entrusted to the keys to the station, while all other Heads must beg at your feet for access to so much as the bar. Don't let it go to your head, and the Head of Security won't brain you.
===[[File:Chiefengineer-nbt.png|64px]] [[Chief Engineer]]===
The Chief Engineer is the highest position within the ship's Engineering Department. Usually, the Chief Engineer is the most experienced engineer on the ship and has good knowledge on every system within their vessel. They have access to additional equipment which can help the Engineering Department's efforts as well as the knowledge and experience to deal with structural, atmospheric, and electrical problems that may occur.


'''2. Uphold the Rights of Crewmen.'''
'''Duties:'''The primary duty of the Chief Engineer is to coordinate the various [[Engineer]]s and [[Atmospheric Technician]]s of the ship to maintain and repair the ship's structure and systems. This does include maintaining oversight of the engine of the ship, whether that be the [[Supermatter Engine]] or the [[INDRA]]. A secondary duty of the Chief Engineer is to design and enact projects to improve the ship if desired.


Only the Captain can authorize a death warrant, and you are sometimes tasked with judging trials under [[Space Law]]. You are normally considered the most impartial officer for this task, which prevents the appearance of a mere kangaroo court. Furthermore, Security often commits excesses and the Captain is either dead or personally involved in a case. For these reasons, you need to be sure to call for trials for high crimes before the accused gets left to rot in a permacell forever. While this may put you at odds with Security, you should find them fanatically loyal to the Captain, who hopefully makes clear his full confidence in you. This delicate balance of power prevents excesses against the crew. Almost always, a weak Captain and Head of Personnel will result in security overstepping their bounds.
===[[File:Chiefmedicalofficer-nbt.png|64px]] [[Chief Medical Officer]]===
The Chief Medical Officer is the head of the ship's Medical Department and Medical Bay. Due to the variety of positions and fields under their supervision, the Chief Medical Officer is not expected to know every field beyond a basic understanding that allows them to manage and discuss it, however they are expected to work with their specialized staff members to treat, cure, and advise the crew on any and all health issues. The Chief Medical Officer is the only command member, aside from the Captain, with the power to declare crew members physically or mentally unfit.


'''3. Follow the Principle of Least Privilege.'''
'''Duties:'''The primary duty of the Chief Medical Officer is to coordinate the Medical Department in responding to health issues. This may require communication with the Head of Security to coordinate [[Paramedic]] and [[Security Officer]] movements or managing the patients that are received in the Medical Bay. The secondary duty of the Chief Medical Officer is to monitor the health of crew and determine if they are physically and mentally fit for service.


When assigning new access levels or creating new jobs, ask yourself just how much access is really needed to perform the task. If a hardworking engineer wants EVA access, consider if he really needs access or just for you to open the door for him while he gets a suit. If the chaplain is being proactive about finding bodies but often needs people to open doors, maybe the risk of giving him more access is less than gain from increasing his effectiveness. Decisions like these keep the station more secure from thieves weaseling their way to their targets and cuts down on the number of accidental arrests made by Security for assumed trespassing. Remember to write their increased access or privileged items on a sheet of paper and give it a good stamping so the janitor will be able to show why he's mopping Medbay's floors.
===[[File:Operationsmanager-nbt.png|64px]] [[Operations Manager]]===
The Operations Manager is the head of the Operations department. Similarly to the Research Director and Chief Medical Officer, the Operations Manager is not expected to be an expert in every field under their authority, but rather expected to have a general understanding of those fields and the knowledge of how to coordinate them to meet departmental goals. To this extent, the Operations Manager is in charge of the Spark, the mining shuttle used by miners, [[Machinist]]s, [[Shaft Miner]]s, and [[Hangar Technician]]s. They are the primary point of contact for anything logistical.


'''4. Talk to the Crew.'''
'''Duties:''' The primary duty of the Operations Manager is to coordinate the Operations department to ensure the material needs of the other ship departments are met. Alongside this, they must coordinate with Medical and the Machinists to ensure all synthetic crew members and patients with non-organic parts are maintained and repaired. The secondary duty is to ensure that the warehouse is sorted and that bounties are being fulfilled.


The Captain gets nervous when someone stands next to him for too long. The Head of Security is too busy beating the clown. The Research Director is on fire, the Chief Medical Officer is up to his elbows in gore, the Chief Engineer is trying to keep everyone warm and breathing in a vacuum, and the Quartermaster is busy selling crates and plasma. You're really the only head able to take time and listen to the crew. Invite crewmen to talk to you when there are conflicts. Defuse the interpersonal and interdepartmental problems you discover during these conversations, and prevent grievances from becoming grief. Advocate on behalf of the robusted to security, and generally reduce the frequency and intensity of mutinies.
==Other Management Roles==
While the following jobs have management roles, they are not Heads of Staff and get none of the perks associated with being a Head of Staff.


'''5. Manage your Department First.'''
===[[File:Warden-nbt.png|64px]] [[Warden]]===
The Warden is a subordinate of the [[Head of Security]] and is on equal footing with [[Security Officer]]s and [[Investigator]]s in terms of power. The exception to this, however, is the brig. The Warden holds authority over the brig and its prisoners. All Security Officers must obey commands by the Warden if said commands are in relation to the brig or the prisoners within it. This power can only be overruled by a command member.


While technically you can demote everyone who's ID you seize to assistant, managing civilian workers not under another head is your immediate responsibility. Keeping janitors on task, directing the chef to throw a pizza party, and getting the records up to date are the first thing to do after assigning job and access changes. Demoting bad security officers or stepping in for an absent department head also falls on your desk, but going into other departments to micromanage in front of their head is both bad form and likely to make you reviled. Always clear a demotion with their department head, or ideally, have all the Heads aware they can send troublesome employees your way to be sent to the mining base. This lets you focus on your immediate underlings and avoid stepping on toes.
'''Duties:''' Keep the brig safe, ensure prisoners do not escape and are [[Corporate Regulations|treated fairly]], issue weapons to Officers when necessary, and process incoming detainees.
 
 
'''Required knowledge:''' How to use the Identification Console. A rough idea of how access is distributed throughout the station. What Kitchen, Hydroponics and the Janitor should be doing.
 
'''Round-start to-do list:''' Stay at your desk for at least the first 10 minutes to manage the shift-start rush.
 
'''Main tasks:''' Manage IDs.
 
'''Main problems:''' Your department (the civil department) doesn't ever acknowledge you as their boss. It's your duty to make that a thing of the past!
 
===[[File:Generic hos.png|64px]] [[Head of Security]]===
Equal rank with all other non-captain Heads of Staff. Although he technically has access, other Heads may deny him from entering their domains. Usually withheld from a promotion to acting Captain if other Heads are available, however in times of crisis he may force himself into the position as acting Captain to better control the crisis.
Oversees security matters with authority over [[Security Officer]]s, the [[Warden]] and the [[Detective]]. Expected to detain and handle those who endanger the station, including other heads of staff, and in some cases, the Captain.
 
 
'''Required knowledge:''' How to use security equipment, a firm grasp on Space Law, and rough idea of what kind of threats the station will have to face and how to deal with them.
 
'''Round-start to-do list:''' Get your officers to report in, if they don't, remind them that the security force doesn't work without teamwork and communication, and have them demoted if they're still acting like a lone mute wolf.
 
'''Main tasks:''' Try to keep the crew as safe as possible. Keep your officers from degenerating to shitcurity when things get rough.
 
'''Main problems:''' Assistants pushing each other is '''not''' a big problem, you shouldn't have to spend much time on those. Focus on the big fish instead.
 
===[[File:Generic rd.png|64px]] [[Research Director]]===
Equal rank with all other non-captain Heads of Staff. Due to AI access, often promoted to acting Captain if there is neither a Captain nor a HoP.
Oversees research efforts with authority over [[Scientist]]s, [[Roboticist]]s, and [[Geneticist|Geneticists]]. Maintains the integrity of the [[AI]] and its [[Cyborg]]s.
 
 
'''Required knowledge:''' Know how R&D works, how to upgrade machines, how xenobiology works, how genetics work and how robotics work.
 
'''Round-start to-do list:''' Make sure every sector is taken care of and fill in if needed. Ask if there are miners around and request the minerals the upgrades and Robotics both need.
 
'''Main tasks:''' Doing researches. Watching over the cyborgs, the AI and the Science Team, and act accordingly. Upgrading machines across the station.
 
'''Main problems:''' Bombs made in ordnance usually get sneaked out and exploded. Check on them from time to time. Malfs, emagged borgs and Mechs used irresponsibly.
 
===[[File:Generic ce.png|64px]] [[Chief Engineer]]===
Equal rank with all other non-captain Heads of Staff.
Oversees the maintenance of the station, with authority over [[Station Engineer]]s and [[Atmospheric Technician]]s. Authority over [[Telecoms]] maintenance.
 
 
'''Required knowledge:''' How the telecommunications, atmospherics, solars and the [[supermatter]] work. [[Malfunction|How to deconstruct an APC.]]
 
'''Round-start to-do list:''' Have your team start the [[supermatter]] correctly and have power flowing to the station. Make sure the atmospheric system is set up correctly.
 
'''Main tasks:''' Listening the radio for people yelling about station damage and delegating your engineers there with appropriate tools and materials.
 
'''Main problems:''' The station is bound to have explosions or at least mfinor holes in it during the shift. Learn how to tackle the exploded telecommunications -situation and you'll be irreplaceable in more than one shift, guaranteed.
 
===[[File:Generic cmo.png|64px]] [[Chief Medical Officer]]===
Equal rank with all other non-captain Heads of Staff. If a Head of Staff is acting medically unstable, it is the CMO's duty to disable and treat them till they are once again fit for duty (which could be never).
Oversees station-wide medical issues with authority over the [[Surgeon]]s, [[Chemist]]s and [[Medical Doctor]]s.
 
 
'''Required knowledge:''' How to perform surgery. Formulas for the most common medicines. How to prepare and administer clean SEs.
 
'''Round-start to-do list:''' Make an announcement to the crew about maxing out their suit sensors so you'll be able to help them when they get in trouble. Check that the cryogenic tubes get set up, possibly with a more efficient mixture of chemicals from the chemist.
 
'''Main tasks:''' Check the Crew Monitoring Console from time to time for dead/dying people.
 
'''Main problems:''' Medical jobs are a common choice for new players seeking a relevant role. So when not absent, dead, or traitorous, expect your staff to need constant babysitting and guidance on how to perform even basic treatments.
 
===[[File:Generic_qm.png|64px]] [[Operations Manager]]===
Equal rank with all other non-captain Heads of Staff. In charge of the station's finances and supply sector which delivers materials, food, medicine, weapons, mail and other goods. Has authority over the [[Cargo Technician]]s and [[Shaft Miner]]s.
 
'''Required knowledge:''' Managing Cargo Tech's, how to operate the Cargo Bay.
 
'''Round-start to-do list:''' Check how many Cargo Tech's are on shift, get them doing something useful such as collecting crates.
 
'''Main tasks:''' Processing crew order requests.
 
'''Main problems:''' Hostile and impatient crew members, syndicate sympathizers, miners not appreciating you taking some plasma for points, inept cargo techs, miners dying in the first five minutes, hostile fauna, and Security. Depending on your loyalty to the station you will either face problems from Security or revolutionary's/ cultists/ the grey-tide. <s>People telling you that you're not a "real head", even though you're not.</s>
 
==Other Management Roles==
While the following jobs have management roles, they are not Heads of Staff and get none of the perks associated with being a Head of Staff.


===[[File:Generic_warden.png|64px]] [[Warden]]===
===[[File:Corporateliaison-nbt.png|64px]] Human Resources Assistant===
Subordinate to the [[Head of Security]].
The Human Resources Assistant is the on-ship assistant for the SCC Human Resources department. While they do not hold any power over the ship or crew directly, they can be seen on occasion conducting interviews with crew members that are involved in Incident Reports.


Authority over the brig, [[Security Officer]]s, and all personnel of equal rank and below as long as they are within the brig.
'''Note:''' The Human Resources Assistant role is restricted to staff members (primarily CCIA) and should not, in any way, be impeded or affected by the round unless given permission by staff. Doing so is considered an OOC offense and can be addressed by Admins.


'''Duties:''' Conduct investigations regarding Incident Reports.


'''Required knowledge:''' Processing prisoners, managing Security operations and personnel and keeping the brig secure.
==Command Voting==
All Heads of Staff can initiate a Command Vote. This vote is considered a captain-level decision and thus carries the authority of the Captain. A command vote begins with one or more Heads of Staff declaring what the vote intends to do over the command radio. All Heads of Staff are expected to participate and vote yes, no, or verbally abstain (abstaining through inaction is not permitted). All command votes are majority-rules unless stated otherwise. In the event the command vote ends in a tie, the vote automatically fails.


'''Round-start to-do list:''' Ensure the brig is secure, check if there is a HoS/Sec Officers present.
===Vote of No Confidence===
During non-standard operation, it is expected that Command staff follow all Captain's orders, regardless of legality or whether they break Regulations. However, in the event that a Captain is acting in such a manner that it threatens the safety of the Ship or acts against SCC interests, a Vote of No Confidence may be started to overturn a decision and remove the Captain from their position. This should be a '''last resort''' in cases where failure to overturn an order would result in grave consequences. Otherwise, contact Central Command or CCIA after the situation has resolved.


'''Main tasks:''' Keeping the brig as secure as possible, ensuring no one attempts to loot the brig, keeping prisoners in check and ensuring they are released on schedule.  
The Vote of No Confidence may be started by any non-interim Command staff by clearly stating their intention over the Command radio, as well as the order they wish to contest. All '''non-interim''' Command staff must vote either yes or no; abstaining is not permitted during a Vote of No Confidence. To pass the vote, the Command staff must '''unanimously vote yes'''. Any vote against automatically fails the action.


'''Main problems:''' Non-compliant Security Officers. HoP handing out Armory access. People attempting to break into the brig.
To ensure the safety of the voting Command staff, the Captain may not vote on the action, and is barred from demoting any Command staff until a decision has been reached.


===[[File:centcomofficial.png|64px]] Centcom Official===
'''A Vote of No Confidence does NOT count as mutiny, sedition, or any related charge unless otherwise stated. Command Staff may not be arrested for a failed vote.'''
Depending on his rank, he may have the authority to dismiss the [[Captain]] from his position, or even outrank the [[Captain]].


Otherwise, he possesses no actual authority over anyone on station and is reliant on ingratiating himself with the command staff.
If a Vote of No Confidence passes, the following must happen immediately:
*The Captain is removed from power
*An Acting Captain must be chosen
*Central Command '''MUST''' be informed of the decision
**In the event Central Command chooses to revert the action, the Acting Captain must give up Captainship, and the previous Captain is re-instated
**Failure to inform Central Command as soon as possible, situation permitting, will be considered Mutiny


= Emergency Situations =
==Captainship Emergencies==


'''Required knowledge:''' The Chain of Command, knowing what your assigned task is from Central Command. Having good social skills.
===Captain Missing in Action===
In this situation, the Captain has gone missing in action but their death has not been confirmed nor denied. In this case, an acting captain can be appointed via command vote. Actions should be taken as soon as possible to locate and confirm the status of the Captain. If the Captain is found to be alive and fit for duty, acting captainship should be relieved and the Captain returned to their position.


'''Round-start to-do list:''' Inform the command staff of your presence.
===Captain is Killed===
In this situation, the Captain has been killed on-duty. The first actions should always be to secure the situation. When the situation is stable enough for a command vote, an acting captain should be appointed and shall serve until the situation is over when acting captainship should be relieved. Alongside this, a situation report regarding the death of the captain should be written and sent to Central Command when possible.


'''Main tasks:''' Whatever Central Command assigned you.
===Captain Declared Mentally Unfit===
In this situation, the [[Chief Medical Officer]] has determined the Captain to be mentally unfit for command. This ruling is made when the Captain acts in such a way that it risks the well-being of themselves, the crew, or the ship to an unreasonable degree. In this situation, the Captain should be removed from their position and submitted into proper medical care. Should the situation require an acting captain, one must be appointed when possible.


'''Main problems:''' Suspicious Security Officers, non-compliant heads of staff and enemies of the corporation.
===Captain Declared Physically Unfit===
In this situation, the [[Chief Medical Officer]] has determined the Captain to be incapacitated in such a way that they are unfit for command. Following the Chief Medical Officer's ruling, the Captain should be submitted to medical care and relieved of duty until they are declared physically fit, or a replacement is activated. Should the situation require an acting captain, one must be appointed when possible.


== Emergency Situations ==
== Appointing an Acting Captain ==
An Acting Captain can be appointed by majority of command. Usually, appointing an Acting Captain is done in Code Red, however one can be appointed on lower alert levels should the situation require it. The Acting Captain inherits all powers of the Captain, including ultimate authority and the power to appoint interim Heads of Staff. Acting Captainship should be relieved after any present emergencies are concluded.


=== Appointing an Acting Captain ===
Within the Captain's office, a spare Captain's ID can be found for the use of the acting captain. This ID should be used to access the Acting Captain briefcase within the Captain's locker, which contains equipment to better identify the individual taking captainship.
An Acting Captain can be appointed by majority of command. Usually, appointing an Acting Captain is done in Code Red. The acting captain acts as if they have ultimate authority (including the ability to appoint interims as an interim captain themselves) abroad the station until an emergency concludes.  


=== Interim Heads of Staff ===
== Interim Heads of Staff ==
In the event that a department is lacking a Head of Staff, someone with enough training can be assigned as a Interim Head of Staff by the Captain, Acting Captain, or the Head of Personnel.
In the event that a department is lacking a Head of Staff, someone with enough training can be assigned as a Interim Head of Staff by the Captain, Acting Captain, or the Executive Officer.
They assume all responsibilities as said Head of Staff until their services are no longer needed, such as when said Head of Staff is made available or they are demoted.
They assume all responsibilities and powers of said Head of Staff until their services are no longer needed, such as when said Head of Staff is made available or they are demoted. Interim Heads of Staff hold an equal power in command votes as any other Head of Staff and are treated as another member of command until their services end.


=== Missing Head of Staff ===
== Missing Head of Staff ==
Chain of command works a lot like line/lane leading, you may will often jump in to fill in for giving directions in place where some heads of staff don't exist. You may need to provide leadership, giving directions, and helping out wherever necessary. You could also appoint an Interim Head of Staff to manage their own department due to their vast knowledge and experience in their respective department. For example, there is no CMO but there is an otherwise filled medical staff, you would take leadership and do the best you can help or you may appoint a qualified medical personnel to Interim Chief Medical Officer to manage the Medical Department.
In the event a Head of Staff is not present on-shift, or has gone missing for whatever reason, it is expected that the rest of command does whatever is necessary to fill in the gap within the power structure. This may include Heads of Staff from another department stepping in to give direction, leadership, and help where possible, or the appointment of an interim Head of Staff.


[[Category:Jobs]]
[[Category:Jobs]]
[[Category:Command]]
[[Category:Command]]
[[Category:Corporations]]
[[Category:Corporations]]

Latest revision as of 19:53, 4 November 2024

The chain of command represents how orders are distributed throughout the ship. It is part of a power structure: usually seen as the most vulnerable and also the most powerful part of it. Starting from the most authorized, the Captain, through the Head of Department, down to the lowliest subordinate to finally accomplish the task needed, in order to make the ship function as efficiently as possible.

The Heads should not start doing the simplest tasks themselves unless the ship's already beyond saving.

Notice: Heads can demote their department staff at any time. To do this, use the Id console.gif ID console with either the Executive Officer or Captain's access to demote the staff member to suspended or assistant. So if one of your subordinates isn't acting like an appropriate team player, don't hesitate to show them who's boss.


The chain of command

Note: The Merchant only holds authority on their own vessel. Outside of their vessel, they hold NO AUTHORITY.

Heads of Staff

A.K.A. the command staff. These are the peoples charged with the administration of the ship. Each of them have general access to each department and the Bridge, the keycard authentication devices, the command radio channel (accessed with :c), the ability to make ship-wide announcements, the ability to change alert level, and cool uniforms fax machines.

Captain-nbt.png Captain

The Commanding Officer with authority over the entire ship. They are the ultimate decision maker.

Duties: The primary duty of the Captain is to keep the ship and her crew safe and functioning. Their actions are expected to be in the best interest of crew, ship, and SCC. The secondary duty is to achieve ship and SCC goals. The way in which a captain satisfies these duties are dependent on each individual captain, however the recommended and primary path is with delegation to other Command staff to leave external interactions (i.e. ship to ship communication) and higher level decisions with their role.

Executiveofficer-nbt.png Executive Officer

The Executive Officer is the head of staff for the Bridge and Service department. They manage the ship finances alongside the captain, as well as handle any ID modifications. However, they are not Second in Command to the captain, nor immediate acting captain in an emergency.

Duties:The primary duties of the Executive Officer are to manage the Service Department and Bridge. This will usually require decisions in regard to ship destination, external communication, and managing vessel shuttles. During ship-based combat, the Executive Officer takes on primary role of coordinating the various Bridge stations, as well as communication with Operations and the Operations Manager to coordinate ammunition and weapons loading.

Secondary Duties include managing the ship's finances, the modification of IDs where necessary, and offering guidance to the Security Department in absence of the Head of Security.

Headofsecurity-nbt.png Head of Security

The commander of the ship's security team. The master of Corporate Regulations and enforcer of justice peace. Arguably the second most stressful position behind the captain, the Head of Security handles all matters pertaining to the operation of the security department and the safety of the ship.

Duties: The primary duties of the Head of Security is to protect SCC assets aboard the ship, including the crew and the ship itself. To achieve this, the Head of Security organizes and commands the security department to address threats quickly and efficiently. The secondary duty of the Head of Security is to maintain order within the crew through the Corporate Regulations. This may include dealing with problematic staff including other command staff who break regulations.

Researchdirector-nbt.png Research Director

The Research Director is the head of the science department. While not expected to be intimate with every field of science within their department, the Director is often looked to for information and assistance on anything new, unknown, or scientific. Maintenance of the AI also falls under the oversight of the Research Director as they are the only command member, other than Captains who were previous in the position, who knows how to reset and change the AI core.

Duties: The primary duties of the Research Director is to give guidance to Scientists. This may include department wide projects, inter-departmental projects (such as with medical for medicine development), and planning out trips on the Intrepid to support the Xenoarcheologist. Secondary duties are focused on maintaining the AI. This may include resetting the AI's laws in the event they are tampered with, or changing the AI lawset to a new version if it is required.

Chiefengineer-nbt.png Chief Engineer

The Chief Engineer is the highest position within the ship's Engineering Department. Usually, the Chief Engineer is the most experienced engineer on the ship and has good knowledge on every system within their vessel. They have access to additional equipment which can help the Engineering Department's efforts as well as the knowledge and experience to deal with structural, atmospheric, and electrical problems that may occur.

Duties:The primary duty of the Chief Engineer is to coordinate the various Engineers and Atmospheric Technicians of the ship to maintain and repair the ship's structure and systems. This does include maintaining oversight of the engine of the ship, whether that be the Supermatter Engine or the INDRA. A secondary duty of the Chief Engineer is to design and enact projects to improve the ship if desired.

Chiefmedicalofficer-nbt.png Chief Medical Officer

The Chief Medical Officer is the head of the ship's Medical Department and Medical Bay. Due to the variety of positions and fields under their supervision, the Chief Medical Officer is not expected to know every field beyond a basic understanding that allows them to manage and discuss it, however they are expected to work with their specialized staff members to treat, cure, and advise the crew on any and all health issues. The Chief Medical Officer is the only command member, aside from the Captain, with the power to declare crew members physically or mentally unfit.

Duties:The primary duty of the Chief Medical Officer is to coordinate the Medical Department in responding to health issues. This may require communication with the Head of Security to coordinate Paramedic and Security Officer movements or managing the patients that are received in the Medical Bay. The secondary duty of the Chief Medical Officer is to monitor the health of crew and determine if they are physically and mentally fit for service.

Operationsmanager-nbt.png Operations Manager

The Operations Manager is the head of the Operations department. Similarly to the Research Director and Chief Medical Officer, the Operations Manager is not expected to be an expert in every field under their authority, but rather expected to have a general understanding of those fields and the knowledge of how to coordinate them to meet departmental goals. To this extent, the Operations Manager is in charge of the Spark, the mining shuttle used by miners, Machinists, Shaft Miners, and Hangar Technicians. They are the primary point of contact for anything logistical.

Duties: The primary duty of the Operations Manager is to coordinate the Operations department to ensure the material needs of the other ship departments are met. Alongside this, they must coordinate with Medical and the Machinists to ensure all synthetic crew members and patients with non-organic parts are maintained and repaired. The secondary duty is to ensure that the warehouse is sorted and that bounties are being fulfilled.

Other Management Roles

While the following jobs have management roles, they are not Heads of Staff and get none of the perks associated with being a Head of Staff.

Warden-nbt.png Warden

The Warden is a subordinate of the Head of Security and is on equal footing with Security Officers and Investigators in terms of power. The exception to this, however, is the brig. The Warden holds authority over the brig and its prisoners. All Security Officers must obey commands by the Warden if said commands are in relation to the brig or the prisoners within it. This power can only be overruled by a command member.

Duties: Keep the brig safe, ensure prisoners do not escape and are treated fairly, issue weapons to Officers when necessary, and process incoming detainees.

Corporateliaison-nbt.png Human Resources Assistant

The Human Resources Assistant is the on-ship assistant for the SCC Human Resources department. While they do not hold any power over the ship or crew directly, they can be seen on occasion conducting interviews with crew members that are involved in Incident Reports.

Note: The Human Resources Assistant role is restricted to staff members (primarily CCIA) and should not, in any way, be impeded or affected by the round unless given permission by staff. Doing so is considered an OOC offense and can be addressed by Admins.

Duties: Conduct investigations regarding Incident Reports.

Command Voting

All Heads of Staff can initiate a Command Vote. This vote is considered a captain-level decision and thus carries the authority of the Captain. A command vote begins with one or more Heads of Staff declaring what the vote intends to do over the command radio. All Heads of Staff are expected to participate and vote yes, no, or verbally abstain (abstaining through inaction is not permitted). All command votes are majority-rules unless stated otherwise. In the event the command vote ends in a tie, the vote automatically fails.

Vote of No Confidence

During non-standard operation, it is expected that Command staff follow all Captain's orders, regardless of legality or whether they break Regulations. However, in the event that a Captain is acting in such a manner that it threatens the safety of the Ship or acts against SCC interests, a Vote of No Confidence may be started to overturn a decision and remove the Captain from their position. This should be a last resort in cases where failure to overturn an order would result in grave consequences. Otherwise, contact Central Command or CCIA after the situation has resolved.

The Vote of No Confidence may be started by any non-interim Command staff by clearly stating their intention over the Command radio, as well as the order they wish to contest. All non-interim Command staff must vote either yes or no; abstaining is not permitted during a Vote of No Confidence. To pass the vote, the Command staff must unanimously vote yes. Any vote against automatically fails the action.

To ensure the safety of the voting Command staff, the Captain may not vote on the action, and is barred from demoting any Command staff until a decision has been reached.

A Vote of No Confidence does NOT count as mutiny, sedition, or any related charge unless otherwise stated. Command Staff may not be arrested for a failed vote.

If a Vote of No Confidence passes, the following must happen immediately:

  • The Captain is removed from power
  • An Acting Captain must be chosen
  • Central Command MUST be informed of the decision
    • In the event Central Command chooses to revert the action, the Acting Captain must give up Captainship, and the previous Captain is re-instated
    • Failure to inform Central Command as soon as possible, situation permitting, will be considered Mutiny

Emergency Situations

Captainship Emergencies

Captain Missing in Action

In this situation, the Captain has gone missing in action but their death has not been confirmed nor denied. In this case, an acting captain can be appointed via command vote. Actions should be taken as soon as possible to locate and confirm the status of the Captain. If the Captain is found to be alive and fit for duty, acting captainship should be relieved and the Captain returned to their position.

Captain is Killed

In this situation, the Captain has been killed on-duty. The first actions should always be to secure the situation. When the situation is stable enough for a command vote, an acting captain should be appointed and shall serve until the situation is over when acting captainship should be relieved. Alongside this, a situation report regarding the death of the captain should be written and sent to Central Command when possible.

Captain Declared Mentally Unfit

In this situation, the Chief Medical Officer has determined the Captain to be mentally unfit for command. This ruling is made when the Captain acts in such a way that it risks the well-being of themselves, the crew, or the ship to an unreasonable degree. In this situation, the Captain should be removed from their position and submitted into proper medical care. Should the situation require an acting captain, one must be appointed when possible.

Captain Declared Physically Unfit

In this situation, the Chief Medical Officer has determined the Captain to be incapacitated in such a way that they are unfit for command. Following the Chief Medical Officer's ruling, the Captain should be submitted to medical care and relieved of duty until they are declared physically fit, or a replacement is activated. Should the situation require an acting captain, one must be appointed when possible.

Appointing an Acting Captain

An Acting Captain can be appointed by majority of command. Usually, appointing an Acting Captain is done in Code Red, however one can be appointed on lower alert levels should the situation require it. The Acting Captain inherits all powers of the Captain, including ultimate authority and the power to appoint interim Heads of Staff. Acting Captainship should be relieved after any present emergencies are concluded.

Within the Captain's office, a spare Captain's ID can be found for the use of the acting captain. This ID should be used to access the Acting Captain briefcase within the Captain's locker, which contains equipment to better identify the individual taking captainship.

Interim Heads of Staff

In the event that a department is lacking a Head of Staff, someone with enough training can be assigned as a Interim Head of Staff by the Captain, Acting Captain, or the Executive Officer. They assume all responsibilities and powers of said Head of Staff until their services are no longer needed, such as when said Head of Staff is made available or they are demoted. Interim Heads of Staff hold an equal power in command votes as any other Head of Staff and are treated as another member of command until their services end.

Missing Head of Staff

In the event a Head of Staff is not present on-shift, or has gone missing for whatever reason, it is expected that the rest of command does whatever is necessary to fill in the gap within the power structure. This may include Heads of Staff from another department stepping in to give direction, leadership, and help where possible, or the appointment of an interim Head of Staff.

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