At a Glance
- Tasks: Train onboard our fleet, mastering navigation and tanker operations while ensuring safety.
- Company: Join James Fisher Tankships, a leader in maritime solutions with 175 years of experience.
- Benefits: Generous bursary, covered exam fees, accommodation, and hands-on training.
- Other info: Exciting opportunities for growth and a chance to join a legacy of excellence.
- Why this job: Wake up to the ocean daily and kickstart your maritime career with a funded degree.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in Maths, English, Science, and 60 UCAS points required.
The predicted salary is between 8500 - 10500 £ per year.
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 2026!
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
- 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.
Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity! Apply early as we may close this vacancy once we receive sufficient applications. We hope to be able to welcome you to our team here at James Fisher. Join our fleet in September 2026!
Trainee Degree Deck Officer Cadet – Merchant Navy employer: James Fisher and Sons
At James Fisher and Sons, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to train as a Deck Officer Cadet while immersed in the maritime world. Our supportive work culture fosters teamwork and safety, with comprehensive training provided at Fleetwood Nautical College and hands-on experience aboard our state-of-the-art tankers. With generous financial support, including bursaries and covered accommodation, we are committed to your growth and success in a rewarding maritime career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee Degree Deck Officer Cadet – Merchant Navy
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research James Fisher and Sons, their values, and their fleet. This will help you tailor your conversations during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former cadets and officers on LinkedIn. They can provide insider tips and might even refer you, which can give you a leg up in the application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for your interview by practising common questions related to teamwork and safety drills. Think about your experiences and how they relate to the skills needed for a Deck Officer Cadet.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the crew at James Fisher.
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee Degree Deck Officer Cadet – Merchant Navy
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for the Sea:When writing your application, let your love for the ocean and maritime life shine through. We want to see that you're genuinely excited about becoming a Deck Officer Cadet and how this role fits into your career aspirations.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications:Make sure to clearly outline your GCSEs and any other qualifications that meet our requirements. If you have any experience related to navigation or teamwork, don’t forget to mention that too – it’ll help us see why you’re a great fit!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid fluff and focus on what makes you a strong candidate. Use bullet points if it helps to organise your thoughts!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly and gives you a chance to showcase your enthusiasm for joining our fleet.
How to prepare for a job interview at James Fisher and Sons
✨Know Your Maritime Basics
Before the interview, brush up on your knowledge of navigation, tanker operations, and deck maintenance. Familiarise yourself with key terms and concepts that are relevant to the role of a Deck Officer Cadet. This will show your genuine interest in the maritime industry and help you answer technical questions confidently.
✨Showcase Teamwork Skills
Since teamwork is crucial in this role, prepare examples from your past experiences where you successfully worked as part of a team. Think about situations where you had to collaborate under pressure or during safety drills. Highlighting these experiences will demonstrate your ability to thrive in a multinational team environment.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so come prepared with thoughtful questions about the training programme and the company culture at James Fisher. Inquire about the mentorship process or how they handle emergency situations onboard. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the company is the right fit for you.
✨Dress the Part
Even though this is a maritime role, first impressions matter! Dress smartly for your interview, opting for professional attire that reflects your seriousness about the position. A neat appearance can set a positive tone and show that you respect the opportunity to join their esteemed fleet.
