How to get a job on a cargo ship

Question

Kate Swindlehurst · Accepted Answer

To get a job on a cargo ship, you need to meet the requirements to work on a ship and find a job that is a good fit for you and your skill set. Working on a cargo ship can be an exciting way to try out living in a different place, but it is not as easy as it may seem, and there are steps required to be able to do so.

There are specific requirements for working on a ship, including having a current maritime certification. For certification, you must also meet certain age requirements and demonstrate skills at sea and competency in many areas of ship maintenance and other protocols. You also must take and pass the certification exam.

You can learn a lot of the sea skills and competencies required for working on a ship by going to maritime school. Maritime school can be a great way to network and make connections, making finding a job that fits you even easier. If not, you need to find the job the traditional way by looking at job listings and sorting for the best fit.