Maritime Occupations
Modern Apprenticeship
What's Maritime Occupations like?
Do you have an interest in ships? Have you always wondered what life at sea might be like?
If so, a Maritime Occupations Modern Apprenticeship can help you find a job that matches your passion for the ocean. Join an industry that’s dedicated to finding new ways of promoting water transportation in Scotland.
The apprenticeship is designed to increase your knowledge of the water vessels. You'll:
learn how to repair and maintain ships of all sizes
improve your understanding of different kinds of mooring equipment, such as cleats and winches
learn how to carry out search and rescue missions at sea
There's a variety of jobs to choose from in Scotland’s maritime industry. You could:
work as a harbour operative and help transport passengers to a ship
become a coast guard and help develop maritime safety initiatives
load precious cargo onto different vessels as a port operative
What's the qualification?
SCQF Level 5
You'll gain a Modern Apprenticeship in Martitime Occupations at SCQF Level 5.
Your qualification includes:
Maritime Studies: Deck Rating at SCQF Level 5
Maritime Studies: Able Seafarer (Deck) at SCQF Level 5
Diploma in Maritime Studies: Able Seafarer (Engine Room) at SCQF Level 5
Diploma in Maritime Studies: Workboats at SCQF Level 5
Diploma in Maritime Studies: Sea Fishing at SCQF Level 5
Port Operations at SCQF Level 5
What will I learn?
During your apprenticeship, you'll learn how to:
carry out maritime employment, environmental and safety practices
contribute to workboat operations
perform vessel rope work, anchoring and mooring operations
secure a vessel for passage
work with basic vessel engineering systems
carry out survival techniques during maritime emergencies
do emergency first aid in response to maritime accidents or medical emergencies
communicate using equipment and visual means
You'll develop the following core skills:
communication
teamwork
numeracy
time management
problem-solving
These transferable skills are useful for working in other roles, such as fishing and port operations.
Where could it take me?
This Modern Apprenticeship gives you a variety of options. You can continue your studies with a maritime-related degree or graduate to a full-time job.
Further education: develop your seafaring skills by applying for a Technical Apprenticeship in Maritime Occupations. You could go on to study for a bachelor’s degree in marine studies or a Masters in navigation and maritime science. Your experience will support your university application.
Straight to work: Use your qualifications to find a job in the maritime industry. For example, you could work as a:
port operative
ship engineer
coast guard
naval marine
harbour operative
ship technician
fisheries officer
fishing sales assistant

Entry requirements
There are no set requirements for this Modern Apprenticeship. Although, it's beneficial if you have a genuine interest in the maritime occupations field.
How does it work?
You’ll learn in a real-world environment and earn a wage. You’ll also study with a college or other learning provider.
How long will it take?
This Modern Apprenticeship will take 12 to 24 months to complete.
How to apply
Use the 'Find vacancies near you' search at the end of this page to look for vacancies, then you can apply online.
You'll apply on Apprenticeships.scot or the company’s own website – there are details on the vacancy advert.
