Summary Overview
A Navigation Officer, also known as a deck officer, is an integral part of the ship’s navigation department. Their role is not confined to the bridge; they are the eyes and ears of the ship, ensuring its safe journey from one port to another.
Could you ensure the safe passage of ships and vessels across the vast oceans? Find out more by applying for an apprenticeship in ‘Seafarer’, the answer lies in the hands of the dedicated Navigation Officers. These professionals play a pivotal role in maintaining safety, security, and a range of practical tasks on board.
Entry Requirements for level 2 Seafarer
Becoming a Seafarer isn’t easy. You need to meet some important requirements first.
Medical Requirements:
Every person who wants to be a Seafarer must pass a series of medical tests which checks candidates physical health and capabilities. These include checks for deadness, ability to communicate using radio or phone, eyesight and seeing colours correctly, and conditions that limit mobility and stamina. These medical tests ensure that every candidate is physically capable of performing their duties effectively and safely.
Employer Requirements:
Individual employers may have their own selection criteria. However, they should satisfy themselves that the apprentice can meet the vocational requirements of their apprenticeship. This could include specific academic qualifications, previous experience, or certain skills relevant to the role.
Qualification Requirements:
English and maths qualifications form a mandatory part of all apprenticeships and must be completed before an apprentice can pass through gateway.
The key roles, responsibilities and interactions of a Seafarer:
The primary purpose of a seafarer’s role is to ensure the vessel reaches its destination or meets its objectives, such as unloading cargo, as per the requirements set by the ship’s Master. This is achieved by carrying out various operations and checks on the vessel, which can often be physically demanding. Even during rest periods, a seafarer has the responsibility to respond appropriately during emergencies to ensure the safety of the vessel and those on board.
Seafarers interact significantly with other crew members and often need to work with them to complete tasks. Good communication within the team is vital, especially considering the multicultural and multilingual crew members on most vessels.
Seafarers usually report to a supervisor on board their vessel and work according to the instructions given by the supervising officer. They may also interact with passengers, depending on the type of vessel.
Regulations and Career Progression
Seafarer regulations are set by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) and are known as the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW). In the UK, these are implemented by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA).
Upon completing the apprenticeship and obtaining the necessary qualifications and certifications, a seafarer can work on any type and size of vessel anywhere in the world. This apprenticeship provides full competency in the role of a seafarer (deck rating) occupation.
For those looking to advance their career, they can obtain an Able Seafarer (Deck) certificate from the MCA, allowing them to work at the Able Seafarer level onboard a vessel. This requires an additional 12 months of sea time and is not included in the apprenticeship.
Career options for seafarers are numerous and varied. Depending on their future specialisation, they may need to gain additional “endorsements” (certificates from the MCA), which are not included in this apprenticeship.
Conclusion:
The role of a seafarer is both challenging and rewarding. It involves a wide range of responsibilities, from ensuring the safety and security of the vessel and its crew, to carrying out various practical tasks. It requires strong communication skills, physical stamina, and the ability to work in a multicultural environment.
The career path of a seafarer is filled with opportunities for growth and specialization. With the right training, certifications, and experience, seafarers can work on any type of vessel, anywhere in the world.
Embarking on a career as a seafarer means becoming a vital part of the global maritime industry. It’s a role that offers the chance to travel the world, face new challenges every day, and make a significant contribution to global trade and transportation. So, for those with a passion for the sea and a desire for a career that is out of the ordinary, becoming a seafarer could be the perfect choice.