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Sharing Economy / Gig Economy Maritime Career Spotlight – Maritime Program Analyst
Q. What are some of the most popular jobs in the marine industry?
A. I don’t think that there is one particular position more popular than another. There are so many unique maritime careers that it’s hard to pinpoint just one. In the industry, there are afloat positions available to those seeking jobs related to the ocean. Some titles include oceanographer, ocean explorer, marine policy specialist, marine technician, environmental advocate, ship’s captain, deck workers, engineers, able seaman, first mate, second mate, etc.
Q. What kind of education and/or special training is needed? Does it help to attend a maritime academy?
A. Educational and special training needs are dependent on what type of position you inherit. Certainly, positions such as oceanographer, engineer, etc. require formal education beyond high school. Positions such as ship captains, requires experience, courses in seamanship as well as an exam conducted by the U.S. Coast Guard. To become a Mate, a high school diploma is required and a license from the U.S. Coast Guard. The best way to get a license is to graduate from the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy or one of the six state academies and pass a written exam.
Q. What is the job outlook for maritime industry and workboats?
A. There is a growing need to attract and retain highly skilled, flexible and reliable employees.
There are many job opportunities within the industry. The baby boomers are expected to retire within a 5 to 10 year period thereby requiring highly skill and competent individuals to take their place.
As indicated in the Mariner’s Employment Guide, “cargo volume is expected to double within the new 20 years and employment is expected to increase by 70%.”
Q. What is your job and what does it entail?
A. I’m a program analyst. My job consists of maritime career outreach activities. I’m tasked with raising awareness about the importance of the maritime industry; and raising awareness among students about career paths in the U.S. merchant marine by disseminating literature, establishing activities.
Q. What is your favorite aspect of your maritime job?
A. Going to different school systems and career fair events talking about positions ashore or afloat within the maritime industry.
Q. What is your least favorite aspect of your job?
Not having enough funding to promote the program.
Q. What advice would you give to someone interested in the maritime industry?
A. Conduct research regarding the job opportunities available within the maritime industry. There is a great reference book, Mariner’s Employment Guide, which provides a wealth of information that will be helpful to anyone seeking employment within the industry.