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Asphalt/Bitumen Tanker vacancies

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Asphalt tanker: features, characteristics, requirements for employment

Among the many specialized vessels serving the global petrochemical industry, the asphalt tanker. This is a unique type of vessel designed for the transportation of viscous, heat-sensitive cargo, primarily bitumen and liquid asphalt. Working on such ships requires specific knowledge and skills, but provides good prospects for seafarers who want to develop in a niche and in-demand area.

What's happened asphalt tanker?

An asphalt tanker is an oil tanker specially designed for transporting viscous cargo heated to a high temperature. First of all, we are talking about:

  • bitumen (bitumen emulsion),

  • liquid asphalt,

  • tar,

  • other petroleum products that tend to harden when cooled.

To prevent such cargo from freezing, the tanker is equipped with a heating system (usually steam, thermal oil or electric). Temperatures in cargo tanks can reach up to 250°C and must be maintained throughout the voyage - regardless of weather or climate.Usually asphalt tankers have relatively small sizes (length 90–150 meters), which allows them to enter small ports and deliver directly to road construction sites or oil depots.

Design features of transport

Asphalt tankers differ from conventional tankers in a number of technical solutions:

  • thermally insulated tanks that prevent heat loss;

  • heating system operating throughout the entire flight;

  • automatic control of cargo temperature;

  • high temperature pumps and pipelines;

  • double housing, increasing environmental safety;

  • inertia ventilation and overheating protection.

Due to the high temperatures and viscosity of cargoes, unloading and loading take longer and maintenance requires special care and precision.

Who works on an asphalt tanker?

Composition crew of an asphalt tanker practically no different from the standard composition of any other tanker. However, some roles require additional qualifications and experience.Main positions:

  • captain;

  • Chief Officer;

  • second and third mates;

  • boatswain, sailors.

Machine Service:

  • senior mechanic;

  • second/third/fourth mechanics;

  • mechanics (Oiler, Wiper).

Service staff:

  • Kok;

  • ship's physician (sometimes). 

Working on an asphalt truck requires constant monitoring of cargo temperature, condition of heating systems, pipelines and pumps. At the same time, a lot depends on the coordinated work of the entire team: the slightest mistake during loading or unloading can result in serious consequences - from damaged cargo to an accident.

Requirements for candidates

To get a job on an asphalt tanker, you must:

  • have valid maritime documents according to STCW;

  • undergo specialized training to work on tankers (Tanker Familiarization / Advanced Oil & Chemical Tanker);

  • have additional training in labor protection and fire safety;

  • speak English at a level sufficient to understand instructions, maintain documentation and communicate with the crew;

  • have experience working on tankers (desirable, but it is possible to start without it - in junior positions);

  • have good health and stamina - working with hot loads requires care and resistance to high temperatures.

Of course, health plays one of the most important roles when working in the navy. Not every person is able to endure long flights, a lot of physical work, and regularly being in a confined space. For most people, this can be a serious stress and even a “blow” to their health, so when hiring, employers always pay attention to the experience, education and health of applicants. 

Why is it worth it? work on an asphalt tanker?

No matter how difficult it is to work on a tanker, working on such a vessel still has certain advantages: Narrow specialization - sailors with experience on asphalt carriers are in demand all over the world.

  1. Good pay - due to the complexity of the work and the nature of the cargo, salaries are usually higher than on conventional tankers.

  2. Career growth - experience on such vessels is highly valued when moving to chemical tankers, gas carriers and other specialized vessels.

  3. Modern equipment - new asphalt trucks are built using innovative safety and automation technologies.

The Marine MAN company helps seafarers find work on specialized vessels, including asphalt tankers. We have current vacancies, verified shipowners and support at every stage: from submitting an application to boarding the ship. We work with both experienced sailors and those who are just starting their journey in the tanker fleet.

If you want to try yourself in this in-demand field, contact us! We will find the right position and help you take the next step in your maritime career.