At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our crew and learn to navigate ships while transporting commodities worldwide.
- Company: bp, a leading global energy company with a commitment to sustainability.
- Benefits: Generous allowance, paid training, and opportunities for career advancement.
- Other info: Flexible working hours and a dynamic environment with excellent growth potential.
- Why this job: Experience life at sea and gain internationally recognised qualifications in just three years.
- Qualifications: Minimum of 56 UCAS points and GCSEs in Maths, Science, and English.
The predicted salary is between 8800 - 15400 £ per year.
This position is a hybrid of office/remote working.
Locations: United Kingdom - Sunbury
Time type: Full time
Posted on: Posted Today
Time left to apply: End Date: January 16, 2026 (30+ days left to apply)
Job requisition id: RQ101280
Entity: Supply, Trading & Shipping
Job Family Group: Business Support Group, Shipping Group
About bp
As a leading global energy company with a presence in 61 countries, bp’s purpose is to deliver energy to the world, today and tomorrow. Across the bp landscape, we’re home to a range of brands across many areas of our industry. We are one of only a few companies that can deliver energy at global scale through a decades-long energy transition. Delivering our strategy sustainably is fundamental to achieving our ambition to be a net zero company by 2050 or sooner.
About bp shipping cadets
Picture yourself cruising the oceans on a multi-million-dollar Tanker, transporting commodities all over the world. And you could become a fully trained officer with internationally recognised qualifications in just three adventure-filled years. We will pay your exam and course fees and give you a generous allowance (starting at £11,000 per year) to help you enjoy your journey.
Opportunity Information
This wide-ranging opportunity will make you a key part of the crew. You will learn to navigate the ship safely, load and unload cargo, handle the ship’s legal and commercial business, and oversee mooring operations. You will handle physical tasks such as chipping rust off metalwork, and bridge/cargo watch keeping, which involves monitoring equipment and looking out for other vessels. You will also shadow more senior crew and help monitor cargo operations, maintain equipment and more. In time, you will learn to plan the ship’s passage and learn all about anchoring and cargo operations. You will split your time between nautical college and on board one of our LNG Carriers.
Please note: this opportunity will not be based at the bp Sunbury office. This opportunity involves day/night shift work, so you need to be flexible in working hours. You will be driven, with an adventurous, can-do attitude and resilience to challenging environments, an aptitude for learning, respectful and able to work.
Minimum Entry Level Requirements
- Either 56 UCAS points (or equivalent) and 4 GCSEs at grade B / 6 (or above) must include Mathematics, a Physical Science, English
- Or successful completion of a maritime/engineering HNC or HND plus GCSE (or equivalent as approved by the college) grade 5 / grade ‘B’ or above in all the following subjects: mathematics, science and English language
- Must be 18 years old by 1st September 2026
- Applicants' normal place of residency is in the UK
- Applicants will need to pass an industry-standard medical examination and background checks in order to complete a placement at sea
What will you gain after completion of programme
This will depend on what qualifications you already hold. Once you are trained and qualified, you will have a UK foundation degree or college diploma in marine operations and deck officer unlimited certificate of competency from the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) which will allow you to work on any vessel. Depending on your academic qualifications you may have the opportunity to complete a BSc (Hons) in Nautical Science. Your growth is important to us. After all, it’s our team’s dedication and expertise that help us achieve and develop. You’ll find a culture where learning’s encouraged, with all manner of training available. Becoming a trained officer is only the start. From here; you can become a navigating officer, Chief officer or even a Captain.
Other Information
Please note the following when applying:
- You can only apply to one bp early careers opportunity globally per academic year – within this time, we will only process the first application you make. You will be withdrawn from any subsequent applications.
- Assessment centres are a key part of the assessment process and will be in person – bp will cover reasonable travel and accommodation costs, in line with the travel policy which will be shared with you. Please ensure you will be available to attend in person - the in-person assessment is likely to take place early February 2026.
- Accommodation – once confirmed, where you need or decide to move closer to your location, you are responsible for organising and funding this accommodation.
Adjustments
We are keen to make our selection process accessible to all. If you require any adjustments, to any stage of the selection process, please mention this in the allocated section on your initial application form. Someone will then be in touch to discuss or confirm the adjustments as appropriate for you. Alternatively, if you would like to discuss adjustments before applying, please get in touch:
T: +44 1635 584149
E: enquiry@bpgraduates.co.uk
Travel Requirement
Up to 50% travel should be expected with this role.
Relocation Assistance: This role is not eligible for relocation.
Remote Type: This position is a hybrid of office/remote working.
Skills:
Shipping Cadet - Deck - UK in Sunbury-on-Thames employer: BP PLC
bp is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity for Shipping Cadets to embark on an adventurous career at sea while receiving comprehensive training and support. With a strong commitment to employee growth, bp provides generous allowances, covers educational expenses, and fosters a culture of continuous learning, ensuring that you can progress from a cadet to a fully qualified officer and beyond. Located in the UK, this role combines the thrill of maritime operations with the stability of a leading global energy company, making it an ideal choice for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Shipping Cadet - Deck - UK in Sunbury-on-Thames
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research bp and its values. When you understand what they stand for, you can tailor your conversations during interviews to show how you fit into their culture.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former bp employees on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for landing the Shipping Cadet role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the assessment centre! Brush up on your nautical knowledge and be ready to demonstrate your problem-solving skills. Practise common interview questions and scenarios related to shipping.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining bp and ready to take that first step towards an exciting career at sea.
We think you need these skills to ace Shipping Cadet - Deck - UK in Sunbury-on-Thames
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When you're writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to show your enthusiasm for the role and what makes you unique.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to fit the Shipping Cadet role. Highlight any relevant experiences or skills that align with the job description. This shows us that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested!
Keep It Clear and Concise:We appreciate a well-structured application. Use clear language and keep your sentences short and to the point. This makes it easier for us to understand your qualifications and motivations.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website! This ensures that we receive all your details correctly and helps us process your application smoothly.
How to prepare for a job interview at BP PLC
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, make sure you understand the role of a Shipping Cadet and what it entails. Familiarise yourself with maritime terminology, safety protocols, and the basics of cargo operations. This will show your genuine interest and help you answer questions confidently.
✨Dress for Success
Even if the interview is hybrid, dressing smartly can make a great first impression. Opt for professional attire that reflects the maritime industry. It shows respect for the opportunity and sets a positive tone for the conversation.
✨Show Your Adventure Spirit
This role is all about adventure and resilience. Be ready to share examples from your life that demonstrate your adventurous spirit and ability to adapt to challenging environments. Whether it's a trip you took or a tough project you managed, let your personality shine through!
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the training programme, the company culture, or the day-to-day responsibilities of a Shipping Cadet. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the role is the right fit for you.
