Sailor: Job description, training requirements, skills and salary

Sailors are usually known for their resilience and toughness, even while making a fortune. This article will discuss the personality, job description, skills, training requirements and salary of a sailor. Read on.

Who is a Sailor?

A Sailor is a person who works on ships, as either part of the crew or as a naval force. They are also known as a "Seaman" or a "Mariner." Majorly, sailors are responsible for navigating the ship, operating its equipment, and performing various tasks to ensure the boat is in good condition. A long time ago, sailors were considered adventurous and daring, as they were required to travel far away and face the challenges of the sea. 

What does a Sailor do?

The duties of a sailor can be physically demanding and require a high level of skill and training. Their role varies depending on the type of ship and their position in the crew. However, the most common responsibilities of a sailor include the following:

• Performing routine maintenance and repairs on the ship's equipment and structures.
• Participating in emergency drills and procedures, and responding to any emergencies that may arise.
• Navigating the ship, using maps, instruments, and other tools to determine its location and ensure it works smoothly.
• Monitoring the ship's systems, such as the engine and navigation, to ensure they function correctly.
• Helping to keep the vessel clean and organized at all times.
• Communicating with other ships and the shore using radios and other communication equipment.
• Providing medical care to crew members as needed.
• Monitoring the ship's systems and making necessary repairs or adjustments.

Educational Qualifications and Training Requirements

While there may be no particular educational requirement for being a sailor, individuals in the field must have at least a secondary school certificate. This is to prove that the sailor has a basic education. In most cases, further training is required, particularly for sailors who want to advance to higher ranks or specialize in a specific area. To acquire the necessary knowledge and skills, sailors need to complete a training program at a maritime academy or a vocational school.

The courses available in the academy may include marine engineering, navigation and meteorology and other basic subjects related to operating ships. For employment purposes, sailors may also need licenses and certifications to work on a ship. The credentials demonstrate that the sailor has the necessary skills and knowledge to perform the job safely. Some organizations allow new sailors to train on the job, but it's always a highly competitive drill. Training includes firefighting, First Aid, Personal safety and social responsibility.

Skill Requirements

In addition to the educational requirements, sailors should also possess the following skills to be successful in the field:

Physical fitness

The job requires performing various activities such as moving heavy equipment, climbing ladders, handling ropes and other strenuous tasks. Hence, sailors need to be in good condition to execute the tasks.

Communications skills

 The ability to communicate effectively with other members of the crew and the people on shore is essential. A sailor should get familiar with the different communication devices, follow and understand instructions. Also, communication should be done in maritime English to address different situations in ports or board ships.

Deck equipment preparation

There is usually a need to prepare deck equipment such as pumps, hatches, tank covers, shackles, waterproof marine doors etc. Assembling all of this equipment in suitable locations should be handled accordingly.

Problem-solving skills

Sailors may encounter various challenges on the job, such as equipment failures or changes in weather conditions. They will need to be able to think quickly and come up with solutions to these problems. 

Leadership skills

Some sailors may be responsible for leading a team or overseeing the work of other crew members. They should be able to provide direction and guidance to others, and they should be able to motivate their team to work together effectively. 

How to become a Sailor?

Becoming a sailor in Nigeria is possible with enough practical experience at sea. This indicates that having a certificate is good, but you will do better trying your hands on the job. To gain a certificate, Maritime academy in Nigeria offer a variety of national diploma and higher national diploma courses, which include:

• Hydrography
• Marine Meteorology
• Electrical-electronics engineering
• Shipbuilding technology
• Maritime Transport and Business studies

There are also requirements to get you into the academy. A potential sailor must obtain at least 5 O'level credit passes in Mathematics, English, Physics, Chemistry and Geography. With these requirements fulfilled, an individual can attend the maritime academy to pursue a career. However, people who prefer to train on the job can do so too. Once you get certified as a sailor, register with the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency ( NIMASA) to make it official.

How much do Sailors earn?

The average salary for a sailor varies depending on the rank, employment and salary guidelines stated by the Maritime board. However, according to mysalary scale.com, in Nigeria, the average net salary for a sailor ranges between N220,000 to N300,000 per month.

Conclusion

The shipping industry is a vital part of the world economy, and so are sailors. A ship will most definitely not sail itself. Without sailors and the shipping industry, it will be more difficult and expensive for countries to trade with one another and operate on a global scale. You're right if you think it will cost you so much struggle to be a sailor, but sailors are eating good, and that should be enough motivation. 

Sailor and Marine Job Near Me

Able-Bodied Seaman at Ascentech Services Limited

Job Overview

An Able-Bodied Seaman (AB Seaman) is an experienced deckhand with advanced skills and responsibilities aboard a ship or vessel.
AB Seamen are essential members of the deck department and assist in various tasks related to navigation, cargo operations, maintenance, and safety procedures. 

They play a crucial role in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the vessel.

Key Responsibilities

Navigation Assistance

• Assist in navigating the ship by monitoring instruments, charts, and radar systems.
• Stand watch on deck, look for hazards, and report any sightings to the officer on watch.
• Operate and maintain navigational equipment under the supervision of licensed officers.

Cargo Operations

• Assist in loading and unloading cargo, including securing cargo using appropriate methods and equipment.
• Operate winches, cranes, and hoists to handle cargo safely and efficiently.
• Ensure proper stowage and securing of cargo to maintain stability and prevent shifting during transit.

Deck Maintenance

• Perform routine maintenance tasks on the deck and superstructure of the vessel.
• Clean and paint the deck, handrails, and other exterior surfaces.
• Assist in the maintenance and repair of deck equipment, including lifeboats, davits, and firefighting equipment.

Safety Procedures

• Participate in safety drills and emergency response exercises.
• Follow established safety procedures and protocols to prevent accidents and injuries.
• Conduct regular inspections of safety equipment and report any deficiencies to the officer in charge.

Seamanship Skills

• Demonstrate advanced seamanship skills, including tying knots, splicing ropes, and handling lines.
• Assist in mooring and anchoring operations, including the use of anchors and anchor-handling equipment.
• Operate small boats and life-saving equipment during emergencies.

Teamwork and Leadership

• Work closely with other deck department crew members to accomplish tasks safely and efficiently l TXficientlybl.
• Provide guidance and support to less experienced crew members, including ordinary seamen and deckhands.
• Maintain a positive attitude and foster a culture of teamwork and cooperation onboard.

Qualifications and Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent education.
• Seafarer’s medical certificate and STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers) certification.
• Years of experience as a deckhand or ordinary seaman onboard ships or vessels.
• Proficiency in seamanship skills and deck operations.
• Good physical fitness and ability to work in challenging weather conditions.
• Strong communication and leadership skills.
• Willingness to work long hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Compliance with drug testing and background check requirements.

Method of Application

Interested and qualified candidates should send their CVs to: [email protected]  using the Job Title as the subject of the email.
Note: Only interested candidates will be contacted.

MARINE MANAGER (COMMERCIAL)

Qualifications of MARINE MANAGER (COMMERCIAL)

Master mariner or class 1 Engineer with 5 years of working experience in Business Development/Commercial in marine and offshore companies. Experience in technical and management of a large fleet of vessel used for different offshore operations- DP vessels, work barges, and accommodation barges. Proven marine, oil, and gas experience in a commercial or largely commercial role. Strong technical knowledge of marine operations is a must. Relevant operational experience and certification are required. This role is responsible for all operational aspects and budgetary control of the company’s fleet of a least 14 years up to perhaps 30+ vessels. Principally. The position holder will have a huge responsibility to manage the company’s fleet offshore to ensure 90% availability.

Job Location: Lagos
Full Time 

Method of Application 

To apply visit. 
https://jobs.smartrecruiters.com/oneclick-ui/company/LextorahLDS/publication/8473c6b7-246a-7f16-0fa6-80677b95d048?dcr_ci=LextorahLDS&sid=c2cc8851-dfcc-467d-8da5-3051a6896ef6