Deck Department Jobs Explained

Are you dreaming of sailing the high seas? If so, understanding the Deck Department Merchant Navy jobs can set you on a rewarding career path. These roles are vital to the safety and operation of ships and offer exciting opportunities for travel, growth, and prestige. In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know to get started in the deck department of the Merchant Navy.

What is the Deck Department in the Merchant Navy?

The Deck Department Merchant Navy is responsible for navigation, cargo operations, safety, and overall management of the ship. It works directly under the ship’s master (captain) and plays a crucial role in ensuring smooth voyages.

The department includes multiple ranks, starting from a Deck Cadet and going all the way up to the Master Mariner. As part of this team, your job will involve real-time decisions, leadership, and managing critical shipboard operations.

Entry-Level Roles in the Deck Department

Your journey in the deck department merchant navy begins with:

1. Deck Cadet

Entry-level trainee position.
Assists officers in navigation, maintenance, and safety drills.
Requires completion of a Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS) or B.Sc. in Nautical Science from a DG Shipping-approved institute.

2. Third Officer

First licensed rank after completing sea time and exams.
Handles bridge watches and maintains life-saving equipment.

These early roles set the foundation for your future promotions in the deck department.

Career Progression in the Deck Department, Merchant Navy

A structured hierarchy defines the deck department merchant navy, and promotions are performance-based:

1. Second Officer

Handles voyage planning and navigation.
Maintains communication and safety systems onboard.

2. Chief Officer

Manages cargo operations and deck crew.
Second-in-command after the captain.

3. Captain (Master Mariner)

The highest authority on the ship.
Responsible for the vessel, cargo, and crew safety.

This step-by-step climb makes the Deck Department Merchant Navy an excellent long-term career option for those seeking advancement and responsibility.

Academic and Training Requirements

To join the deck department merchant navy, you need:

10+2 qualification in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM).
A Diploma in Nautical Science (DNS) or B.Sc. in Nautical Science.
Clearing the IMU-CET and company sponsorship exams.
Medical fitness certification.

Certifications Required:

STCW Courses (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping)
Basic Safety Training
Oil Tanker Familiarisation (for oil tankers)

Skill Station helps you navigate these academic and examination hurdles with expert guidance and test preparation.

Real-Life Experiences at Sea

Many seafarers begin their journey as cadets and quickly adapt to life at sea. Life onboard is filled with responsibilities, but also offers unique experiences such as:

Watching sunsets from the middle of the ocean
Experiencing different cultures in various ports
Working in a team with crew from all around the world

These experiences not only shape your career but also build life skills such as resilience, leadership, and cross-cultural communication.

Challenges and Rewards of Deck Department Jobs

Challenges:

Long months away from family and friends
Extreme weather conditions
Maintaining focus during long watch hours

Rewards:

Tax-free income (depending on the country’s rules)
Early financial independence
Rapid career growth
Global Recognition

Despite the challenges, many seafarers find their careers fulfilling and adventurous. The deck department merchant navy gives young aspirants a chance to travel the world while building a solid professional future.

Why Choose Skill Station?

Located in Dehradun, Skill Station is an education platform that supports young aspirants in achieving their maritime dreams. Known by many as the best merchant navy institute, Skill Station offers:

Personalised career guidance
Training for IMU-CET and sponsorship exams
Direct access to DG Shipping-approved colleges
Ongoing mentorship throughout your maritime journey
Regular interaction with industry experts and alumni

Whether you’re choosing your first course or preparing for cadet interviews, Skill Station ensures you’re prepared for the real challenges of the deck department merchant navy.

Conclusion

The Deck Department Merchant Navy offers one of the most respected and rewarding career paths in the maritime world. From Deck Cadet to Captain, each role brings you closer to leading a ship and crew across international waters.

With expert training and the right support system, you can make your maritime dreams a reality. That’s why many aspiring sailors trust Skill Station, the best merchant navy institute, to launch their seafaring careers.

Start your journey today with Skill Station and let your maritime future set sail in the right direction.

Rayyan Alam

11:55 27 Jun 24

I heard about Skill Station from a senior and decided to join. When I got to Dehradun, I was thrilled with the great faculty and environment. Amrinder Sir is amazing – his communication skills, style, and personality are top-notch. He's more than a teacher; he's like a friend, brother, and mentor. Joining Skill Station was the best decision I made. Unlike other places, Sir helps you until you get selected. Last year, I achieved a 5452 rank in IMUCET but didn't get any company sponsorship. However, Sir didn't leave me. He took care of us until we were selected and continued to guide us even after our selection. This year, with his guidance, I improved to a 4600 rank in IMUCET and got sponsored by ESM. Skill Station feels like a family. Thank you, Sir!

Abhinav Garwal

10:40 27 Jun 24

Thank you Team Skills Station!For always guiding me.For not only making a relationship as a teacher-student but also to make a bond like a family members.Special thank to Amrinder Sir for not only helping and guiding us but also to treat us like an elder brother in our all the tough and difficult situation.❤️Thank you to all the members of Skills Station team.- Abhinav Garwal

aakarsh negi

08:22 27 Jun 24

One of the best institutes I have seen that not only has good results but also great management. When I joined this institute, I was a bit shy and was not able to speak in public, but now my personality has completely changed. I am confident and bold, and now I like to socialize even more. Because of the teachers and their guidance, I was able to score a good rank in IMU-CET and got sponsored by Anglo.

Kirti Mishra

08:21 27 Jun 24

I'm a student of skill station by Amrinder sir , I'm a type of student who scared to talk in front of crowd and have a lack of confidence , but after joining skill station family Amrinder sir taught me and helped me in every single step I improved my personality . Our faculties present over there are very supportive , friendly and kind hearted they always present there to help us wherever we need they motivate us to keep growing.One more thing from my side Amrinder sir's classes is not just for interview's it'll always help you further in your life how to stay , how to adjust and how to grow with limited resources. With skill station family I learnt a lot of things .Thanks skill station family specially a great personality Amrinder sir 🙏

ARYAN KAMRA

08:14 27 Jun 24

Skills Station Is Best academy For The preparation of merchant Navy , all the teachers Are very helpful and Hardworking they have years of experience joining skills station is one of my best decision I have ever taken in my life, Specially Amrinder Sir Who helped us in every situation we have faced during Our exams or interviews thank You to all the whole team of Skills Station Family because of you I Have secured Good Rank in Imucet I highly recommend new Comers please join Skills Station.

Deepika Rohilla

07:01 26 Jun 24

This is the best institute for Merchant Navy and Communication skills. Amrinder Sir helped me to gain confidence to clear the interviews. He always focuses to develop our personality. I am more confidant and more skillful now.