Freighters transport cargo throughout the world, operating on international waters, as well as on waterways within the United States, such as the Great Lakes or the Mississippi River. Working on a freighter can be a rewarding career. A career at sea offers good pay and benefits, as well as the opportunity for worldwide travel. Crewmembers of vessels flagged by the United States are members of the Seafarers International Union. The best way to get a job on a freighter is to apply through the union.
Seafarers InternationalUnion
Visit the website for the Seafarers International Union. Go to the section for “Jobs.” You want to select the link for “Unlicensed Apprenticeship Program FAQ.” In this section you can review information relating to the minimum requirements needed to attend the union training program. Current information about the costs of the program is also provided. The training provided by the Seafarers International Union involves classroom training as well as hands-on training aboard a merchant ship.
Freighter Job Training
The Seafarers International Union offers several training program options. Upon completion of the unlicensed apprenticeship program a graduate is eligible for an entry-level position on a freighter. Carefully review the information on the various programs so that you can choose the program that is best for you. Some merchant marine apprenticeship programs offer free room and board during the apprenticeship training.
Once you decide which training program you want to attend, you can start the application process. Click on the “Entry Program Request Form” link on the Seafarers International Union’s website. Completely fill out the union’s online request form. Make sure you provide all of the requested information including your name, address, current phone number and an email address, if applicable. After you submit your online request for information you will be contacted by a member of the Seafarers International Union. The recruiter will provide you with additional information regarding current training classes.
Guaranteed Job on a Freighter
The Seafarers International Union guarantees that graduates of the maritime academy will get a job on a freighter after graduation. This guarantee applies only to the first job after graduation. In these hard times, a guaranteed job after graduation is something that most colleges can not even think about offering. Considering all the benefits, working on a freighter is a wise and rewarding career choice.