Marine occupations and the importance of English communication competency

Non-English language speakers interested in working in the maritime industry should be familiar with marine occupations terms.

Maritime students should also be familiar with the wide range of professional occupations found in the maritime industry, from marine transportation to human resources. Their job descriptions suit different ship and off-ship departments, which are related to deck, engine, safety, security, medical, service staff, platform and shore operations. These national or international seagoing related opportunities may include the following career disciplines and positions:

Marine Surveyor
Cargo Adjustor
Operations Manager
Freight Forwarder
Chief Engineer
First Assistant Engineer
Second Assistant Engineer
Oiler
Deckhand
Able-Bodied Seaman
Logistics Specialist
Logistics Manager
Bookkeeper
Accountant
Captain
First Officer
Second Officer
Third Officer
Electronics Officer
Radio Officer
Training Specialist
Instructor
Human Resources Specialist
Human Resources Manager
Clerical Assistant
Brokerage Coordinator
Analyst
Sales Representative
Customer Service Representative
Ocean Coordinator
Inland Coordinator
Student Intern
Cadet Trainee
Engine Cadet
Electrical Technical Cadet
Strategic Planner
Cost Control Analyst
Risk and Loss Management Specialist
Procurement Specialist

These occupation terms correspond to highly skilled professionals, responsible for moving or helping to move passengers and cargo safely around the world. They are trained to do the navigation, engineering and use the latest information technology. Considerable leadership and managerial skills are essential to ensure the safety and well being of the community of people living and working together at sea.

Since the correlation between English competency and safety is now widely recognized, non-English speakers, who are preparing themselves to work or are working in the maritime industry, should consider mastering the English language. Note that without speaking this language, the opportunities to find a job or the changes of career advancement within the industry are less to nothing.

The importance of successful English communication at sea cannot be overestimated. Effective communication onboard and between ship and shore is essential.