Job Description of a Marine Pilot
The maritime industry has launched a new set of apprenticeships with roles on ships and in ports. Masters of ships arriving in ports often need assistance to make sure they can enter and exit the port safely. This assistance is provided by marine pilots who are usually required to undertake the following:
- Physical tasks – Marine Pilots are required to board moving vessels from small high powered launches, often in rough seas. This involves climbing high ladders to access vessel decks.
- Pilotage planning – before boarding a vessel, the Marine Pilot is required to plan the course of the vessel taking into account tides, weather, size, weight and operational characteristics of the vessel, and if there is a need for tugs.
- Piloting the vessel – the Marine Pilot will have responsibility for navigating the vessel safely in and out of the harbour. They need to work very closely with the captain and other members of the crew in order to achieve this. They also need to be able to use the ship’s navigational and communications equipment, liaising with both other vessels and the port control centre.
How does the Marine Pilot Apprenticeship work?
You will learn key knowledge from experienced people working in the business, by studying the course modules via distance learning. This knowledge and understanding will be tested by the module student assignments and the final exam (for those wishing to gain the Full Diploma). The course covers key areas that you must understand if you wish to work as a Marine Pilot. Those who have taken the time to study this subject will have shown motivation and forward thinking. This is very appealing to potential employers.
What personality traits would stand you in good stead for these roles?
The requirement to board vessels at sea means that a Marine Pilot needs to be reasonably fit, comfortable working on the water and at height. There may also be some on-call requirement, as well as shift or weekend work. Team work is also a big part of all of this role. Apprentices should be good team players but also self-reliant. They should be assertive, but able to follow instructions.
How will this Apprenticeship help me find a job as a Marine Pilot?
We cannot guarantee that you will find work as a Marine Pilot. But, taking this course will raise your profile on the job market. Key knowledge and understanding, plus the ability to learn, are important factors that employers look for. By taking and passing this course, you will have demonstrated and proven your ability for critical thinking within the framework of a course. For instance, covering all the key aspects of marine pilotage.
The course is taught by working experts with a huge amount of experience and working knowledge. The focus of this course is understanding what you need to know when performing the task of a Marine Pilot. As such, it is invaluable for those wishing to start a career, or highly experienced Marine Pilots looking to update their knowledge and gain a formal qualification.
Will I become a qualified Pilot upon successful completion?
No. You will still need to meet the requirements of individual employers in terms of their operating and training standards. But, as explained, this course will certainly help.
Entry Requirements + Information about Apprenticeships
Whilst requirements differ per applicant per employer, typically it is required for candidates to have Level 2 English and Maths. If they do not have these qualifications they will need to achieve this level prior to taking their end point assessment.
The duration of this course is typically 3 years long and is a level 5 apprenticeship.
Conclusion
This apprenticeship will be perfect for you if you have an interest in becoming a marine pilot. The course offers you to further your skill set and gives you the foundation to have a career in this field.
