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Seafarers 
SEAFARER
The Work
The Seafarers International Union's Maritime Apprenticeship Program offers entry-level employment with a clearly defined career path. This career path has existed as part of sea-going life for many years. Nothing prevents an entry-level teenage seafarer from becoming a highly respected and responsible ship's captain or chief engineer before they reach their late twenties. Individuals are expected to move along the career ladder, advance their earning status, and attain more responsibility. Through the joint labor/management administered maritime training center, seafarers have all of their upgrading expenses paid for.

The different shipboard departments on a vessel (engine, deck, and steward) allow for individuals with dissimilar aptitudes and interests to find a job they can enjoy and be competent at.

Working Conditions
Work is done on board sea-going vessels both outside and inside, and in the cold, sun, rain, and snow. The work can require considerable standing, bending, and reaching as well as extensive travel.

The Apprenticeship
The Seafarers Maritime Apprenticeship Program starts at the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland. The course includes an initial 12-week training session covering the basics followed by a 90-day practical training and assessment period that takes place aboard a working U.S. Flag ship. Finally students return to the center for department-specific training that prepares them to begin sailing aboard Seafarers International Union (SIU) contracted vessels. There are three shipboard departments: deck, engine, and steward. Note: Those who successfully complete the training are guaranteed employment.

Apprenticeship Entry Requirements
  1. Must be at least 18 years of age
  2. 8th grade reading and comprehension level
  3. Not on probation or parole
  4. No felony convictions
  5. Must complete entry testing
  6. Pass a drug screen test
  7. Must be eligible to obtain a valid Drivers License
  8. Be able to meet all U.S. Coast Guard established criteria for the issuance of a Merchant Mariner's Document
  9. Be able to comply with the physical fitness standards for the merchant marines
  10. Be of sound moral character


More information can be found at the Seafarers' International Union Website: http://www.seafarers.org
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