Frequently asked questions relating to the search for jobs and careers aboard merchant vessels, selection and recruiting processes, and requirements on board; and our merchant marine job seeking service.
Considering the many questions, uncertainty and doubts that might arise when entertaining the idea of applying for a seagoing position in the merchant marine, we have created this section on our website as a general information guide to provide our visitors and users with answers to commonly asked questions regarding its requirements, selection and recruitment processes, onboard living conditions and other factors to take into account before making a decision in this respect.
If you want to work aboard a merchant vessel, you will find a range of different positions. Some of them do not require previous training or experience, such as steward/waiter, oiler, pot washer, kitchen attendance, cleaner, etc.
For a general description of them, please visit our Jobs on Merchant Vessels section.
To check out current available job openings to work on merchant vessels in our website, please visit our Job Vacancies section.
Generally, most positions on board don't require any special professional skills. To be sure, you have to pay attention to the different posts and check their requirements (click here).
Most positions on board require a special previous experience, but there many entry-level jobs available for people without experience at all. Plus, the merchant marine companies use to train new employees for the different jobs. Anyway, you’ll have to check the different positions (click here).
Most cruise lines require you to be aged 18 or 21 and considered an adult according to the legislation of your country.
Obviously this matter depends on the position to be filled, the law and regulations of flag state of the vessel, the nationality of the employee and other diverse aspects.
But generally it would include:
Please do not hesitate to contact us to request for specific information on this subject.
Yes, but it is easy to obtain. In the most of cases, it will be done by the physicians of the shipping lines. However, sometimes a certificate authorized in the country you live in. The medical certificates are usually cheap ($75-$90). If it has been done by a particular company doctor, it is free.
Normally, from 6 to 12 months, depending on the company and the specific project. The different sort of contracts can be extended by mutual agreement.
Not initially. It is the shipping company that assigns the ship aboard which you will work. After the first contract, when you are already working for the company, it is possible for you to ask for a change.
The employee will be responsible for the cost of the ticket to her/his nation of residence. In the case of being discharged, the company will be responsible for that cost.
Absolutely not.
Yes, if they are not on duty.
If the company has its offices and is registered under laws of the United States of America, American citizens will get their taxes deducted from their paychecks. In another case, crewmembers will have the responsibility to declare their taxes to the government of their country when they return home. The amount taken from the paycheck depends on the legislation of the government. You can find out the details in the shipping company office or employment agency.
In the most of the cases, the shipping companies pay for it. But, sometimes, the employees will have to pay the air ticket to the place of embarkment, and it will be refunded after the end of the contract. You will be informed about it in the company offices or employment agency during the interview.
No, save exceptions such as the telephone and mail cost.
Not at all. Any employee caught using drugs on board will be discharged and, regardless of the location of the ship, disembarked and submitted to local police authorities. In addition, the crewmembers have to be prepared to the tests performed regularly to detect any prohibited drug.
Due to government and fleet regulations, crewmembers are expected to take part in constant safety and emergency drills.
Normally yes, save the higher positions.
It depends on the country in which the shipping company is registered.
Mail is not a problem, because it works as on land. But the use of the phone may be problematic, because must use a satellite connection.
Mail is not a problem, because it works as on land. Other communication systems are also available.
Usually, 6 days. Nevertheless, you may be required in your position at any moment.
The maritime cluster offers considerable job opportunities to workers and professionals unemployed or seeking for an occupational change.
EnterThere is a large diversity of positions and jobs to be filled aboard merchant vessels.
Obviously, there are also a number of most-in-demand positions in the merchant marine, with different chances of getting hired depending on their requirements and the candidate's profile, qualifications, expertise and objectives.
EnterLeaving aside professional maritime personnel, working in the merchant marine may offer a unique opportunity to develop more professionalism and skills than in a land-based position.
However, it is a demanding working environment that requires a careful approach to the maritime agencies and companies to get some chances of being recruited to work on board.
Both in terms of eligibility for the position and the application process.
Please do not hesitate to contact us.
EnterWe are open to receive – and we shall reply – any inquiry or request for information about the merchant marine and its job opportunities and for career development.
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