Strona 1
Ship hull assembler, marine technician
A ship hull assembler is a professional sought after both in Poland and abroad.
The responsibilities of a ship hull assembler involve: pre‑treatment of sheats and profiles, cutting, making holes, bending metal sheets and prefabrication of the hull sections, and later the assembly and repair of the ship’s hull. The assembler prepares the slipways and docks to build the hulls of the vessels. They also prepare a ship and slipways for launching. A person who performs this job has to combine the skills of a welder, locksmith and a mechanic. The knowledge of ships’ construction is also essential.
A ship hull assembler can find employment at production and renovation shipyards as well as companies associated with the shipbuilding industry, for example, companies producing steel constructions. This profession offers great work possibilities, but it usually requires a change of place of residence or moving abroad. However, in order to work abroad one must be able to communicate in a foreign language.
The work of an assembler can bring a lot of satisfaction as there’s no routine in it. Every project is different so, the assembler has to constantly learn new things and acquire new skills. Still, this job has also its disadvantages. The work usually takes place in shipyard halls or in the open air. It is physically demanding and sometimes it can be dangerous as the assembler has to work at high altitudes or in hard‑to‑reach places. Sometimes they have to work in high noise levels or in harmful conditions.
A good assembler is characterised by qualities such as: spatial imagination, manual and technical skills, the ability to work in a team, responsibility and physical fitness.
Ship mechanic
A ship mechanic is a perfect job for people with technical interests who are ready to work at sea. The demand for this type of professionals is very high both among Polish and foreign shipowners.
A ship mechanic is a specialist who deals with the utilisation of the engine room on ships of all types, from traditional general cargo carriers to specialised and modern units such as gas and chemical tankers. The responsibilities of a ship mechanic include the operation of ship equipment and installations as well as their repair and maintenance. Moreover, he or she stays on watch and participates in rescue operations.
A specialist in the field of marine engineering who speaks foreign languages can find employment anywhere in the world. Most people who pursue this career undertake work on marine vessels, e.g. commercial, fishing and passengers ships that belong to foreign shipowners. In addition, one can work on navy ships, port service vessels, marine rescue or border guard units. It is also possible to find employment on land, e.g. in shipbuilding industries, shipyards or ports.
Work at sea is difficult and requires specific psychological predispositions. It usually involves long‑term separation from the family and staying in small and uncomfortable rooms. It’s a watch system work, so also at night, and in various, often dangerous conditions like during storms. Therefore, a ship mechanic has to be in an excellent physical and mental shape, has to have good hearing, eyesight and reflexes. He or she should also possess spatial imagination, manual skills and be able to work in a team.
Marine technician
The profession of a marine technician is classified as a niche occupation, since the shipbuilding sector is primarily related to the sea‑bordering areas. However, the demand for such specialists is very high, especially on the foreign labour markets. Technicians specialising in this field who have knowledge of foreign languages can expect to find very interesting and financially attractive job offers.
A marine technician participates in design and construction works in the area of shipbuilding. The scope of their duties includes developing technological processes in regard to shipbuilding, equipment and ship repairs, as well as selecting appropriate materials, machines, devices and equipment. The technicians operate the machines and equipment and oversee the works related to the construction or repair of the vessels, including applying the anti‑corrosion protection. What is more, marine technicians ensure the compliance with the international regulations and standards concerning the production quality, environmental protection and safety of ship operation.
Qualified marine technicians can find employment in planning and design companies associated with shipbuilding, but also on ships, in shipyards and in enterprises managing, for instance, the production of steel components and constructions.
Depending on the place of employment, working conditions may vary substantially. Sometimes technicians can perform their work in an office, but most frequently they work in shipyard halls and workshops, as well as on vessels that are built or renovated. Considering this, their work is often carried out outdoors, in changing weather conditions, at high altitudes or in harmful environment. Despite the difficulties, this profession is believed to be very satisfying.
In order to perform their job successfully, marine technicians should have the required skills. The most important of these are manual and motor skills, as well as spatial imagination. Finally, technical and management skills are also crucial.