Container ships play a vital role in international trade, helping companies move cargo through the world's most important waterways. Consequently, the continued expansion of international trade generates greater demand with respect to the global fleet of containers and seafarers. Also, many jobs on board a container ship are physically demanding and require personnel to remain at sea for long periods of time. However, inexperienced merchant sailors are well paid and have ample opportunity for promotion, as well as traveling to the world's major cities.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Preparing for a Job
Step 1. Stay in good physical shape
Work on container ships is extremely demanding when it comes to physical activity, so prepare to stand for several hours, lift and carry heavy objects, as well as perform many other physical tasks, depending on the type of job. that you accept.
Step 2. Prepare to be at sea for a long period of time
In addition to being physically strong, you must mentally prepare to work for several hours, spend most of your time in confined spaces with other crew members, and be away from your family for weeks or even months.
You may spend more time at sea than planned due to bad weather, mechanical problems, or even a strike at one of the ports
Step 3. Get a passport
A job on a container ship will most likely require you to travel around the world. Therefore, it is best to obtain your passport before looking for a job, so that you do not have to worry about it later.
Step 4. Understand the existing roles on a ship
Most of the jobs available on a container ship fall into three departments: engine room, deck, and galley. The crew of the machinery department are responsible for repairing and maintaining all mechanical and electrical components of the ship. The deck crew are responsible for navigation, safety and maintenance work depending on their rank. The kitchen crew are responsible for preparing and serving meals and for cleaning.
If you have experience as a cook, engineer, mechanic, firefighter, nurse or doctor, it is possible to transition into the maritime industry without having to take inexperienced jobs first
Step 5. Decide which inexperienced sailor position is the right choice for you
If you do not have any experience or training regarding work at sea, you should start your career in a position for the inexperienced. All of these positions offer you the opportunity to be promoted to higher-level positions once you gain the necessary experience. Some of the positions for the inexperienced on a container ship include the following:
- Inexperienced Deck Sailor - This is a position for inexperienced deckhand sailors. An inexperienced deckhand will learn the basics of sailing during a specific period of training. In addition, he will be in charge of greasing the lashing equipment, sanding the rust and painting the fixed furniture. As they gain experience, inexperienced sailors on deck will receive additional responsibilities. Over time, an inexperienced deckhand can expect to be designated an experienced seaman. The duties of an experienced sailor include guarding, handling tow cables, and making safety rounds.
- Bartender - New crewmembers serving in the engine room start out as bartenders and perform a wide variety of duties, such as basic maintenance, cleaning, and inventorying. Typically, a bartender is promoted to a position known as a Skilled Sailor in the machinery department. These sailors perform various functions, such as maintaining and repairing machines and auxiliary power systems.
- Assistant Cook - New sailors serving in the kitchen begin their careers as assistants and their activities include dishwashing, laundry, and room cleaning. These crew members typically become cooks, which involves helping with food preparation and supervising other kitchen staff.
Method 2 of 3: Obtain the required credentials
Step 1. Apply for a Transportation Workers Identification Credential (TWIC)
The first step in obtaining the credentials you will need to work on a United States container ship is to apply for a TWIC, which is issued by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). You will need to submit an application online and then visit one of the TSA offices to present your identification and immigration documents, as well as to have your fingerprints taken and your photo taken.
- You will have to make a payment of $ 128 when you submit your application. Discounts are available to individuals who have a hazardous materials endorsement on their license or who have a Free and Secure Trade Card.
- You will not be awarded TWIC if you have been convicted of certain crimes, such as espionage, treason, terrorism, and murder.
Step 2. Obtain a Merchant Seaman Credential (MMC)
All persons who work on a container ship must receive an MMC, which is issued by the United States Coast Guard. The MMC is a photo ID that indicates the crew member's qualifications, rank, and endorsements, which will determine what types of jobs you can perform on the container ship. Depending on the endorsements you request, you will have to make payments between $ 45 and $ 140 to obtain your credential. To apply for a Merchant Seaman Credential, you must do the following:
- present evidence of US citizenship, resident status, or foreign citizenship. The United States Coast Guard will grant foreign nationals the MMC only if they are enrolled in the United States Merchant Seaman Academy;
- make sure you are at least 16 years old (and parental consent for minors);
- submit to a background check. If you have criminal records, the Coast Guard will determine the candidate's suitability on a case-by-case basis;
- have a Transportation Sector Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) or find you in the process of applying for one;
- pass the physical exam. The requirements are different for inexperienced sailors and experienced sailors, so be sure to submit the appropriate form;
- submit to a drug test;
- present evidence of previous experience at sea and successful completion of relevant examinations for the desired endorsement and rank. This is not necessary for inexperienced endorsements.
Step 3. Get certified in Training, Certification and Watchkeeping Standards for Seafarers (STCW)
This certificate will allow you to work on ships that operate in oceans around the world. If you have the MMC but not STCW certification, you will only be allowed to work in domestic waters in the United States or in the Gulf of Mexico up to 19 km (12 miles) from shore.
- Inexperienced crew members must complete a 5-day Basic Safety Training course. This course will cover basic firefighting techniques, survival skills, first aid basics, personal safety, and social responsibilities. Other positions with higher levels will require additional training.
- The cost for the full 5-day program is $ 1025 at New England Maritime, but the cost may vary at other institutions.
Step 4. Consider getting a bachelor's degree
If you would like to start working in a higher level position, consider enrolling in a 4-year training course at a maritime academy. When you graduate, you will earn a bachelor's degree and a license to serve as a Third Officer or Third Engineer Officer.
Method 3 of 3: Get a Job
Step 1. Take an internship
There are programs that offer internships for people who want to move up from inexperienced to skilled positions quickly. This is a great option if you are diligent and want to build a career, but have no experience working at sea.
Visit the website of the International Union of Seamen or the Workboat Academy to look for opportunities. You can also find other organizations that offer internship programs
Step 2. Join a union
Once you obtain the necessary credentials, you may consider joining one of the many shipping unions in the United States. Your union will help you find a job, and it can also be a great way to network with other people in your industry.
You do not have to join a union to get a job on a container ship. If you find yourself with long waiting lists, your best option is to look for a job outside the union
Step 3. Submit your job application to the shipping companies
If you decide not to do an internship or join a union, look for your first job on a container ship by searching online on job opportunity websites and classifieds. Apply for positions by submitting a resume that includes your skills and experience, as well as a cover letter that explains why you are a good fit for the job.
- With a quick online search, you will find a variety of job boards containing jobs in the maritime industry. Also, check out job boards like Monster and CareerBuilder.
- Don't forget to visit the websites of every shipping company you can think of. It is possible that there are positions available on their web pages that you have not seen in their job boards.
Step 4. Try to ask questions in your environment
If you live near a congested port, you may be able to find a job by visiting the ports and asking the captains if they have any jobs available. Make sure you take your credentials with you in case any of them say yes.
Step 5. Get over it
Once you get a job on a container ship, you must decide if you want to advance your maritime career. If you enjoy your job and would like more responsibilities, you will need to gain experience and meet the necessary requirements for additional licenses and endorsements on your credentials.
The precise requirements to obtain these licenses and endorsements will depend on the type of job you wish to obtain. Check with the United States Coast Guard to find out which exams and other requirements you must meet to meet your career goals
Advice
- Typically, inexperienced sailors who complete an internship program become experienced sailors or qualified engine department sailors within a year.
- Complete your applications very carefully. An incomplete application will delay the approval of the MMC or STCW certification.