Trainee Degree Deck Officer Cadet – Merchant Navy
About the Role
Imagine waking up to the ocean every day as you train onboard our state-of-the-art fleet of tankers. Our 3-year degree program covers all the skills, knowledge, and behaviours needed to become a certified Merchant Navy Deck Officer.
We are now looking for Deck Cadet Officers to join our fleet in September 2025!
We cover all exam and course fees, plus accommodation at Fleetwood Nautical College. You'll also receive a generous bursary of £8,500 in your first year, increasing to £10,500 in your second and third years.
What You'll Learn
You'll gain comprehensive knowledge and practical skills essential for a successful maritime career:
- Navigation: Learn to navigate vessels safely, mastering chart reading, course plotting, and using advanced navigation systems to ensure safe passage in various sea conditions.
- Tanker Operations: Manage tanker operations by overseeing the loading and unloading of cargo, monitoring stability and safety procedures, and coordinating with port authorities.
- Deck Maintenance: Keep the deck in top condition, ensuring all equipment is ready for any operation.
- Teamwork and Safety: Participate in mooring, anchoring, and safety drills as part of a multinational team, developing your ability to work collaboratively and respond effectively to emergency situations.
Training Structure
Over the 3-year training programme, your training is divided into classroom-based and onboard sea phases:
- Fleetwood Nautical College (Phases 1, 3, and 5): Classroom-based training with accommodation and food costs covered to work towards your BSc in Nautical Science and mandatory sea qualifications.
- Onboard Training (Phases 2 and 4): Hands-on training on our tankers, with trips lasting around 2 months. You'll have a designated mentor, full PPE provided, and all travel and food costs covered.
Your Future Qualifications
Upon graduation, you'll receive the Deck Officer of the Watch Certificate of Competency (II/1 OOWD) and a specialised qualification for oil and chemical tankers.
Additionally, you'll earn a fully funded BSc in Nautical Science. If you don’t already have Level 3 qualifications, don't worry—we can enrol you in a Cadetship to achieve Level 3 first.
What You Need to Apply
- GCSE Mathematics at Grade 5/C, GCSE English and Science at Grade 4/C or equivalent.
- 60 UCAS Points: This could be in A/AS level, including subjects which support the application
- Nationality: Must be a UK passport holder.
- Medical Assessment: Must pass an ENG1 Seafarer Medical assessment.
About James Fisher and Sons
With over 175 years of maritime experience, James Fisher Tankships offers unparalleled ship management solutions. James Fisher’s team operates and trades a fleet of product and chemical tankers. JFS provides safe and flexible shipping services mainly in Europe as well as in the Caribbean region. Join our legacy of excellence and embark on an exciting maritime career.
Apply Now!
Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity! Apply early as we may close this vacancy once we receive sufficient applications.
Set sail on your maritime career with James Fisher and Sons. We can't wait to welcome you aboard!