90% of the world’s cargo is moved by sea. From crude oil to making petroleum, fertilizers for crops, and nearly anything you can think of—including the device you’re using to read this blog—has components that were likely transported by merchant navy vessels to their destination. Pursuing a career in the merchant navy offers the opportunity to be part of this essential global trade network, underscoring the vital role of maritime transportation in the world economy.
Such is the importance of the sea as a transportation medium that we use the word “shipped” to indicate something has been sent. Most shipments today are managed by skilled professionals in the merchant navy, making this field not only critical to trade but also an appealing career choice for those passionate about the sea and international commerce. Choosing a career in the merchant navy means combining adventure, responsibility, and lucrative opportunities while contributing to global trade
Importance of Merchant Navy
The merchant navy, also known as a Merchant Marine, forms a fleet registered to a specific country for transporting goods across the globe. The term “merchant navy” was coined by King George V for British ships following their service in the First World War. Today, many countries continue to operate merchant navy careers through their commercial shipping operations.
Commercial ships that carry goods worldwide are the backbone of international trade. These ships employ thousands of individuals globally in roles such as engineers, navigators, seamen, cadets, medical officers, telecommunications personnel, chefs, and other specialists. A career in merchant navy offers professionals not only an opportunity to work in a highly skilled workforce but also merchant navy benefits that surpass many other professions.
Merchant Navy Ranks and Roles Explained
The ranking system in the merchant navy is categorized into Deck, Engine, and Catering divisions. Understanding what is the work of merchant navy involves recognizing the teamwork required in each department to ensure smooth operations aboard.
Each category has its own ranks with specific roles and responsibilities. These include:
The Captain (Master)
Each category has its own ranks with specific roles and responsibilities. These include:
The Captain (Master)
The captain is the highest-ranked and final authority on the ship. He shoulders the entire responsibility of nautical operations and all other shipboard activities.
Deck Department
It has the following roles:
- Chief Officer/Mate: The chief officer, second in command on merchant navy vessels, ensures safe navigation, executes the captain’s commands, oversees the deck, and ensures crew welfare, key to what is the work of merchant navy.
- Second Officer/Mate: The second officer, OOW for charts and medical officer, manages medical services and performs navigational watches, crucial for a career in merchant navy.
- Third Officer/Mate: The third officer is responsible for all life-saving and firefighting appliances onboard. Additionally, he handles all port documents for use by the captain along with the bond store.
- Deck Cadets: Deck cadets, trainee officers, perform tasks to gain practical skills for certification, vital to becoming a seaman in merchant navy.
Most nautical science students begin their journey pursuing a career in merchant navy as deck cadets. They receive their CoC, or certificate of competency, upon completing the required sea service period and CoC examinations. With dedication and experience, deck cadets advance through ranks, successfully completing three CoC exams and fulfilling the requisite years of service at each position. This structured career path in the merchant navy ultimately leads to the prestigious role of the ship’s captain, making it a rewarding and goal-oriented profession for aspiring seafarers.
Deck Rating (non-officer-rank staff)
Bosun: A Bosun is the head of the rating division and carries out all scheduled work assigned by the chief mate.
Able seamen: Able seaman in merchant navy roles possess a merchant mariner’s document and assist the deck department.
Ordinary seamen: Ordinary seamen handle deck maintenance tasks like cleaning, painting, and repairs, while ensuring secure cargo operations under the Bosun’s guidance.
Engine Department
It has the following roles:
Chief Engineer: The Chief Engineer leads the engineering team on merchant navy vessels, managing machinery maintenance and operations, he plays a vital role in the navy.
Second Engineer: The second engineer reports to the Chief Engineer, supervises the engine room, and delegates tasks to the crew.
Third Engineer: The third engineer supports the second engineer and ensures the proper functioning of onboard machinery.
Fourth Engineer: The fourth engineer manages spare inventories, checks bunkering systems, and maintains logs, showcasing the merchant navy benefits tied to meticulous operational roles.
Fifth Engineer: The fifth engineer, a trainee, assists during watch duty and gradually takes on tasks to earn certification, paving the way for a rewarding seaman in merchant navy career.
Engine Rating (Non-Officer Rank Staff)
The engine rating department has the following ranks:
- Fitter
- Motorman
- Wiper
- Trainee Fitter/Trainee Wiper
The merchant navy is an excellent career option for everyone who loves the sea, is fascinated by a highly organized, well-structured field of work and is in reasonable health. A career in merchant navy is a highly paid and exceedingly lucrative option for everyone.
Career Path in Merchant Navy after 12th
For students aspiring to explore the high seas, a career in merchant navy after 12th is an exciting and rewarding choice. After completing your 12th standard, preferably in Science with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM), you can enroll in a pre-sea training program or a B.Sc in Nautical Science. The journey begins as a deck cadet or engine cadet, where you gain hands-on experience on merchant ships under the guidance of senior officers. With dedication, cadets appear for Certificate of Competency (CoC) exams and progress through ranks such as Third Officer, Second Officer, Chief Officer, and ultimately Captain or Chief Engineer. Along the way, students develop essential skills in navigation, ship operations, safety management, and leadership. This structured career path not only offers lucrative salary packages and global exposure but also opens doors to diverse roles in shipping companies, cruise lines, and international maritime organizations.
Also Read: All about Merchant Navy Scope, Syllabus, Subjects, Fees
Conclusion
A career in merchant navy is a perfect blend of adventure, responsibility, and lucrative opportunities. Working on merchant navy vessels allows individuals to be part of global trade while enjoying merchant navy benefits such as high pay and structured career growth. Whether navigating international waters or managing engine systems, merchant navy careers offer diverse and dynamic roles. Understanding what is the work of merchant navy highlights the critical teamwork involved, from seaman in merchant navy to high-ranking officers. For those seeking an exciting and fulfilling career, the merchant navy is an unmatched choice.
