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The Career Development pages relate to the technical professional seafaring roles on board.

For further Career Development information on Hotel and Catering, Hospitality & Support Services and Opportunities Ashore please go to Roles.

Navigation (Deck) Officer

As a navigation officer (usually called a deck officer), you'll be a vital member of the ship's management team, and with the prospect of sophisticated and expensive vessels, valuable cargo or passengers in your charge, it's a big responsibility.

While on duty (called a 'watch'), it will be down to you to make decisions on steering and maneuvering the ship, controlling navigation and communications. Using the latest technological systems, you'll have control at your fingertips. In port you'll be responsible for cargo handling and ship stability. As a senior deck officer, you'll be a leading member of a small team of skilled, professional seafarers, including junior officer and ratings. You'll direct and supervise the work of your team - maintaining the ship and its equipment at optimum efficiency. Your ultimate goal on board would be to become the Master (Captain).

What qualities & skills will you need?
You'll need to be decisive, calm and able to inspire confidence in others. You'll be a good team member with mathematical ability, an interest in technology, and good written and verbal communication skills. Beyond that, confidence, enthusiasm and self-reliance are essential attributes.

For each of the ranks mentioned above you will have to hold a Certificate of Competency which is issued by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency. You will receive the first of these certificates (the Officer Of the Watch certificate, also known as the OOW certificate) when you complete your Merchant Navy Training Board approved training course which is delivered through one of the maritime institutions. A list of maritime institutions is available. Further certificates will be gained as you increase your experience at sea and pass the required examinations. You will need to have the Certificate for the next rank before you can be promoted into it - so it's important to get them as soon as you can!

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