At a Glance
- Tasks: Embark on a 3-year journey to become a qualified Engineering Officer in the Merchant Navy.
- Company: Join James Fisher and Sons, a leader in maritime solutions with over 175 years of experience.
- Benefits: Generous bursary, fully sponsored training, accommodation, and travel costs covered.
- Other info: Experience life at sea and enjoy excellent career prospects in the maritime industry.
- Why this job: Gain internationally recognised qualifications while exploring the seas and working on advanced ship technology.
- Qualifications: 5 GCSEs including Maths and Science, plus 60 UCAS points at A/AS Levels.
The predicted salary is between 8500 - 10500 £ per year.
As an Engineering Cadet, you will learn all the skills, knowledge, and behaviours over a 3-year adventure to become a fully trained Officer of the Watch with internationally recognised qualifications. James Fisher and Sons will sponsor your training journey by paying for your exam and course fees, including accommodation at college, as well providing a generous bursary allowance of £8,500 in Year 1 increasing to £10,500 in Year 2/3.
Engineer Cadet Officers oversee operating and maintaining the ship's engine room and its increasingly sophisticated equipment, including the main engine, boilers, pumps, fuel systems, electrical generating and distribution equipment, refrigeration and air conditioning plants, lifts, cranes, and all other mechanical and electrical systems.
Your training programme will typically last for approximately 3 years and will be structured in ‘Phases’. These phases tend to last up to 6 months.
You will typically spend Phase 1, 3 and 5 of your training programmes based at Fleetwood Nautical College. We will pay for all your accommodation and food costs whilst there in their purpose-built Cadet Accommodation alongside all your travel to and from college at the start and end of term!
Phases 2 and 4 will be spent at sea onboard our tankers. Each trip typically lasts for 2 months, where you will have a designated mentor whilst onboard, and we will provide full PPE. Our fleet trades along the UK and Northern European Coastline, even trading in the Caribbean! We will fully pay for your travel to and from our vessels and all food during your sea phases!
All our Cadets once graduated will receive Deck Officer of the Watch Certificate of Competency (II1/1 EOOW) which enables you to work on any vessel as a qualified Deck Officer! As you will be training onboard an oil tanker, you will also receive a specialised qualification which enables you to work on tankers in your future career without further training.
You will work towards and achieve a BEng in Marine Engineering with Fleetwood College as part of your Cadetship programme.
What do I need to apply?
- 5 GCSE’s (grades A* - C or 9 – 4) or National 5’s which must include Mathematics (Level 5 +) and Science + English (Level 4+)
- 60 UCAS points at A/AS Levels including subjects that support the application.
Nationality
To qualify for our Cadetship Sponsorship scheme, you must be a UK passport holder. If you are offered a position with us as a Cadet, you will undertake a ENG1 Seafarer Medical assessment.
James Fisher Shipping Services has unparalleled maritime experience in delivering safe, reliable and cost-effective ship management solutions. As ship owners for more than 175 years, James Fisher Shipping Services provides technical vessel and crew management to the James Fisher fleet of tankers, as well as to the wider tanker, research and specialised vessel markets.
We reserve the right to close this vacancy before the closing date should we receive sufficient applications for the role. Therefore, if you are interested, please submit your application as early as possible.
We hope to be able to welcome you to our team here at James Fisher. Join our fleet in September 2026!
Trainee Degree Engineering Officer Cadet - Merchant Navy employer: James Fisher and Sons
James Fisher and Sons is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity for aspiring Engineering Cadets to embark on a rewarding 3-year training journey. With comprehensive sponsorship covering exam fees, accommodation, and a generous bursary, alongside hands-on experience at sea and at Fleetwood Nautical College, we foster a supportive work culture that prioritises professional growth and development in the maritime industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee Degree Engineering Officer Cadet - Merchant Navy
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research James Fisher and Sons, their fleet, and their values. 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 on LinkedIn or at maritime events. They can provide insider tips and might even put in a good word for you when it comes to applications.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for your interview by practising common questions related to engineering and teamwork. Think about your experiences and how they relate to the role of an Engineering Cadet. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the James Fisher family. Get your application in early!
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee Degree Engineering Officer Cadet - Merchant Navy
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let us see your enthusiasm for the maritime industry! Share why you want to become an Engineering Officer Cadet and what excites you about this journey.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant skills and experiences that align with the role. We want to see how your background fits into the exciting world of engineering at sea!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon so we can easily understand your qualifications and motivations.
Apply Early!:Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application. We might close the vacancy early if we get enough applications, so get yours in through our website as soon as you can!
How to prepare for a job interview at James Fisher and Sons
✨Know Your Engineering Basics
Brush up on your engineering fundamentals, especially those related to marine engineering. Be prepared to discuss key concepts like engine operation, fuel systems, and electrical equipment. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you stand out.
✨Research the Company
Dive into James Fisher and Sons' history, values, and fleet. Understanding their operations and what they stand for will help you tailor your answers and demonstrate that you're a good fit for their team.
✨Prepare Questions
Think of insightful questions to ask your interviewers about the cadetship programme and life at sea. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if this is the right opportunity for you.
✨Show Your Passion for the Sea
Express your excitement about working at sea and your commitment to becoming a qualified Officer of the Watch. Share any relevant experiences or stories that highlight your passion for maritime engineering and adventure.
