Case studies : Merchant Navy deck officer: Andy

I chose a career in the Merchant Navy as I was attracted by the career prospects, good wages, challenge and the chance to work with several nationalities and see the world. I found out about my current employer through family members who were already in the Merchant Navy. I applied online and had two interviews with them. I would advise prospective applicants to be confident, speak up, be open minded, willing to work with different nationalities and to make decisions on your own.

My degree studies helped me to gain competency in navigational methods, both old-fashioned and using modern equipment. A licence cannot be achieved without completing an approved course, such as the Maritime Operations Foundation Degree.

My role has developed as I have been promoted through the ranks from third officer to second officer, and I hope to progress to captain. I carry out tasks such as navigation, cargo watches, risk assessment, work planning, training of crew and maintenance of the ship. I enjoy the freedom to make big decisions and to propose solutions to daily problems that occur on board ship. Sometimes, as in all jobs, there is mundane paperwork to be completed, and being away from home for four months at a time can be hard.