The merchant navy is a crucial part of the global economy, responsible for the transportation of goods and materials across the world’s oceans. If you have a passion for the sea and are interested in a career that offers adventure, excitement, and the opportunity to travel the world, then a career in the merchant navy may be just what you’re looking for. In this article, we’ll explore the steps you need to take to start a career in the merchant navy.
Step 1: Decide on a career path
Before you begin your journey to a career in the merchant navy, it’s essential to decide on the type of career path you want to pursue. There are various roles available, including navigating officers, engineering officers, deck officers, and ratings. Each of these roles requires different qualifications, so it’s crucial to research the various options and choose the one that best suits your interests, skills, and ambitions.
Step 2: Obtain the required qualifications
Once you’ve decided on your career path, the next step is to obtain the required qualifications. The qualifications needed will depend on the role you’re interested in. For example, navigating officers and engineering officers typically require a degree in a relevant subject, while deck officers and ratings may require vocational qualifications or on-the-job training. It’s essential to research the qualifications required for your chosen role and ensure you meet the necessary criteria before applying.
Step 3: Gain practical experience
While academic qualifications are essential for a career in the merchant navy, practical experience is equally crucial. Many shipping companies look for candidates who have practical experience working on ships or in related industries. You can gain practical experience by completing internships, volunteering, or working in a related industry, such as the offshore oil and gas industry.
Step 4: Apply for jobs
Once you have the necessary qualifications and practical experience, it’s time to start applying for jobs in the merchant navy. You can find job vacancies on shipping company websites or through recruitment agencies that specialize in the industry. It’s important to tailor your application to the role you’re applying for, highlighting your relevant skills and experience.
Step 5: Attend interviews and assessments
If your application is successful, you will be invited to attend an interview and potentially an assessment day. These assessments may include aptitude tests, medical assessments, and psychometric tests. It’s essential to prepare for these assessments to give yourself the best chance of success.
Step 6: Obtain the necessary certifications
Before you can start working in the merchant navy, you’ll need to obtain the necessary certifications. These certifications will depend on the role you’re working in and the type of vessel you’ll be working on. For example, all crew members on board a vessel must have STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping) certification. You’ll also need to obtain a seafarer’s medical certificate to demonstrate that you’re fit to work at sea.
In conclusion, starting a career in the merchant navy requires a combination of academic qualifications, practical experience, and the necessary certifications. By following these steps, you can increase your chances of success and start an exciting and rewarding career on the high seas.
