The world would not survive without container ships and other cargo vessels transporting goods between ports. They are a vital lifeline that requires a host of skilled workers and crew to function. Maritime jobs aren’t for the faint-hearted.

They require a lot of commitment and dedication to a role, so you must be sure it is the right choice. Working on a container ship can be tough but also highly rewarding. Here are some of the important factors to consider and some of the potential roles out there.

Important Considerations Before Applying For A Job On A Container Ship

As with any maritime jobs, there are pros and cons to these areas of work. Some people will find they are well suited to a life away on the ocean, while others struggle with the requirements. Think about these factors and how they may affect you before searching for maritime jobs and submitting any applications.

1) The time away at sea

Let’s start with the deal-breaker for most people. This isn’t your typical 9-5 job where you can go home at the end of the day. You could end up spending months away at sea, living and working on the ship.

Some companies offer contracts that are around 4 to 6 months long for skilled workers. This covers the time at the port of origin loading the containers, the time travelling to the destination ports, and the journey home. The length of time varies based on the number of destinations and their location.

This could be great for those with no responsibilities or commitments tying them to a hometown. It could be a lot tougher for any newlyweds or people with young children. You will end up starting a great career and providing for their future, but you could miss a lot of special occasions.

2) The social side of the job

A plus side to all this time away at sea is the chance to see the world in a whole new way. Workers who end up getting regular gigs with container ships could end up all across the world. You will see some amazing sights and meet some interesting people along the way.

On top of that, you will get to do so as part of a close-knit crew. Your team onboard ship will become your second family. You get to share the load of the work together and then enjoy their company during meals and downtime on the ship.

These relationships could turn into close friendships the more time you spend together. On the other hand, there is the risk of isolation and poor morale in teams with limited social opportunities.

3) The physical toll.

There is a fun side to life at sea on a container ship, but it can also be a lot of hard work. Those who work hands-on with the containers and cargo areas need to be fit and strong enough to keep up. The long hours also mean it can get pretty tiring. This only gets more difficult when you factor in the sea conditions and bad weather. This could be a great challenge for those who like to stay busy and active and work.

Crew members higher up the chain won’t have the same levels of physical exertion. Over time, you can work your way up to these positions and reap the benefits. Still, there are the same health and safety risks associated with life on those dangerous decks.

4) The money

Then there’s the money. The salaries for container ship jobs do vary between the roles. Some lower-level jobs for skilled workers, such as electricians, could be between 20-30,000 for those 4 months at sea. Others in managerial roles could be closer to 70-80,000. It is important to understand how much you will get for your service and if there are any caveats.

Some of the higher-paying roles can allow for some significant savings over time because of lower expenses. You aren’t paying for your food and accommodation, and can’t spend anything on shopping or entertainment on the ship.

Different Roles on Container Ships

If the idea of working on a container ship sounds perfect for you right now, you can then think about the different types of container ship jobs and what you’re suited to. Roles tend to be split between working with the cargo and working on the ship itself.

Every ship needs a strong crew to get it from one port to another safely and efficiently. It also requires enough skilled technicians and engineers to handle all the systems, carry out repairs, and keep everything ship-shape. This includes electricians and vessel managers.

As for the precious cargo, the ship needs skilled employees who can handle the logistics of moving the containers between the ship and the dock, keep track of anything on board, and deal with the recipients at the other end. You could put in plenty of hard work as a dockworker, forklift operator, or other skilled worker.

Or, you could take on a less physical managerial role once you gain experience, such as a quality assurance coordinator or risk analyst. Then there are the often-overlooked team members who make sure everyone is safe and cared for during those long days at sea. This includes the ship’s cook and the utility steward.

Each role requires its own level of experience and training. You may have to take on training courses and work your way through the system to reach higher-paid jobs. Still, this highlights another benefit of working in the container ship industry. Once you get a foot on the ladder, you can climb pretty high and make a good living. There is a level of job security here that is inviting.

Is Container Ship Work Right For You?

Working on a container ship is one of the tougher maritime jobs out there. However, many find it highly rewarding because of the experience at sea, the room for career progression, and the money saved. Look at the roles on offer, see what experience you need, and maybe you can start a whole new career on the ocean.