The Merchant Navy is the collective name for the UK’s commercial shipping industry and includes a variety of different vessels. There are many career options available in the Merchant Navy including deck officers, electro-technical officers and engineers. Clyde Marine Training recruits approximately 50% of the annual officer intake so it is a great starting point for anyone looking to join.

A deck officer is a vital member of the crew. They make decisions on steering and manoeuvring the ship, controlling navigation and communications. They are also responsible for cargo handling and ship stability while in port as well as the day to day safety of the ship.

If you would like to become a deck officer you should enrol on the deck officer cadetship at Clyde Marine Training. It is a three year sponsored course which combines academic and practical training.

Once you’re a qualified deck officer the typical starting salary for a third officer ranges from £22,000 to £30,000 which depends on the company and type of ship. This salary will then increase as you progress in your career.

If you want to study to become an engineer you can enrol for an engineering officer cadetship at Clyde Marine Training. As part of your cadetship, you can study engineering at one of our partner colleges or universities which include the City of Glasgow College, Shetland School of Nautical Studies (NAFC), South Shields Marine School, Fleetwood Nautical Campus and Warsash Maritime Academy. We offer a variety of courses with something to suit all levels and where you study depends on what level you study at.

If you want to study an engineering degree you require 48 UCAS points from 2 or more A Levels or Highers which must include either physics or mathematics.You also require 4 GCSEs or Standard Grades/National 5s at grade C/3 or above including English, mathematics and a science-based subject.

Once you’re a qualified engineer the typical starting salary for a third officer can be anything up to £30,000 which depends on the company and type of ship.

An electro-technical officer is a fairly new role in the Merchant Navy. It involves the maintenance and repair of electronic systems on board a vessel such as radars and electronic chart systems.