Merchant Navy rating

Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

• an apprenticeship
• applying directly

Entry requirements:

Entry requirements:

Apprenticeship

You can get into this job through an able seafarer (deck) intermediate apprenticeship.

Through this apprenticeship you can become a rating in one of the following areas:

• deck
• engine room
• maritime catering

You can apply directly to shipping companies who advertise vacancies throughout the year.

Entry requirements:

• some GCSEs, usually including English and maths, or equivalent, for an intermediate apprenticeship

DirectApplication

You can apply directly to shipping companies or the Royal Fleet Auxiliary .

Your training will combine college-based study with placements at sea to get practical experience of working on a ship. The length of training depends on your sponsoring company.

You'll need 3 to 4 GCSE grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) in subjects like English, maths and physics, or combined science, or equivalent qualifications.

Employers will expect you to have good practical skills, enthusiasm for the career and the potential to complete ratings training.

You may also find it useful if you have qualifications and experience in:

• catering
• engineering
• freight handling
• navigation

Required Skills:

Digital skills : to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

Skills:

• the ability to work well with others
• the ability to use your initiative
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to work well with your hands
• patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
• problem-solving skills
• observation and recording skills
• knowledge of public safety and security
• thinking and reasoning skills
• physical skills like movement, coordination, dexterity and grace
• the ability to operate and control equipment
• excellent verbal communication skills
• business management skills
• sensitivity and understanding
• concentration skills
• the ability to repair machines or systems
• the ability to monitor your own performance and that of your colleagues
• the ability to use, repair and maintain machines and tools
• knowledge of teaching and the ability to design courses
• knowledge of transport methods, costs and benefits

What you'll do:

Merchant Navy ratings carry out a wide range of jobs to help the day-to-day running of a ship.

You could:

• load and unload cargo
• inspect and clean holds, tanks, cranes and winches
• repair and paint the ship's hull, fixtures and fittings
• test fire-fighting and life-saving equipment
• carry out routine mechanical and electrical maintenance
• monitor equipment controls
• prepare meals in the galley and serve food and drinks
• clean cabins, corridors and decks
• track stock and re-order supplies

Location : You could work on a ship.
Environment : Your working environment may be outdoors in all weathers, cramped, at height and you may spend nights away from home.
Uniform : You may need to wear a uniform and safety clothing and use safety equipment.

Salary:

Starter : £13,500
Experienced : £28,000

These figures are a guide

Working hours:

53 - 55 hours variable

Working Pattern is evenings / weekends / bank holidays away from home

Career Path:

You could move up through the Merchant Navy ranks of leading hand, petty officer and chief petty officer. With the necessary skills and experience, you could take further training to join the junior officer ranks.

You could also use your skills to move into onshore engineering or a hospitality and catering career.