Top Five Career Options to Take in the Shipping Industry

The shipping industry is paramount in this modern world. Ships must have brought to us almost everything we own. In fact, some of the largest ships in the world can handle about 18,000 standard containers with cargoes. They are typically filled with all sorts of goods or items being transported regularly to any part of the world.

As the shipping industry continues to be operational, there will always be consistent jobs offered in this sector. These roles can be diverse, requiring different skillsets and various attributes. Individuals can find a particular career that suits their knowledge and skills. They can choose one based on their educational background, the field of specialization, and industry experience.

That said, here are top career options to take in the shipping industry:

1. Shipping Brokers

As with other industries, a broker usually acts as a middleman. In the shipping industry, a shipbroker serves as an intermediary between the ship-owner and the charterer. Also, a sale and purchase broker (S&P) connects both the buyers and sellers of watercraft. Lastly, a broker becomes responsible for transporting various goods via the sea.

To become a shipping broker, one must earn a valid certification. In most cases, brokers must have also undergone years of training and acquired years of experience in the industry. They must also possess excellent entrepreneurial, negotiation, and networking skills. Ultimately, being a shipbroker can be a lucrative career.

2. Shipping Operations Personnel

A ship requires a handful of shipping personnel to ensure its continuous and safe operation. The team is responsible for building, maintaining, and fixing the cruise itself. The members also handle, organize, and protect transported goods or items.

On top of them is the marine engineer, tasked to oversee and maintain the mechanical systems. Working hand in hand with the marine engineer is the naval architect, who ensures the smooth sailing of the ship. Lastly, the first-line superintendent plays a vital role in the ship’s daily operation by planning activities, supervising shipping workers, and delegating tasks.

3. Ship Stewards

As the name suggests, ship stewards are in charge of a ship or a cruise line, for this matter. They focus on customer service, hospitality management, and housekeeping. For instance, they serve clients with food and beverage. They also ensure the safety of a client’s balikbayan box from Canada to the Philippines, for instance. Lastly, they handle clients’ requests for additional supplies.

Most of the ship stewards have a degree in Hotel and Restaurant Management or related courses. Some of them may have already worked in hospitality companies such as hotels, bars, and restaurants. Their ultimate goal is to provide clients with high-standard accommodation and amenities.

4. Claims Manager

When it comes to protection, insurance plays a crucial role in various industries. And this applies to the shipping industry as well. Insurance becomes a requirement, as the shipping sector can put the cargos, clients, and employees at risk. Know that high volume claims are common in the liner industry and low in the cargo segment.

In case of untoward incidents such as broken items and personal injury in the ship, one can file a claim. That is where a claims manager comes into the picture. A claims manager serves to handle the claim assessment and submission on behalf of the insurance policyholder. One must have good discretionary skills and excellent communication skills.

5. Shipping Lawyers

As with any sector, lawyers play a vital role. In the shipping industry, these attorneys can also be called solicitors and barristers. They work with clients in the shipping segment and represent them in court for legal concerns. They can also become the official lawyer of a shipping company dealing with all legal matters.

To become a shipping lawyer, one must have a degree in law with a one-year legal practice course (LPC). They must also pass the professional examination required in their country or state. Plus, they must be specialized in the wet shipping law. However, they can also take the route as a master mariner without an educational background in law. They can take a legal job for a shipping company and learn on the job as they go.

The shipping industry always has something to offer in terms of career. It has various options, from shipping brokers and ship stewards to shipping lawyers. As such, be sure to consider the valuable pieces of information discussed above. Also, one must factor in their knowledge, skills, and background to see what job is best suited for them. Ultimately, choosing a career in the shipping industry is all worthwhile.