Ice Breaker vacancies

Vessel-icebreaker: Who can I find a job?

Surely everyone knows about the existence of such a powerful sea vessel as icebreaker, but what is it? This is a vehicle capable of passing through thick layers of sea ice, providing navigation to other ships in the Arctic, Antarctic and northern seas. Such vessels are considered one of the most technically complex and expensive to operate. Working on an icebreaker requires not only professionalism, but also physical and psychological endurance. However, it attracts seafarers with the possibility of decent income and unique experience. Let's take a closer look at who is needed on board the icebreaker and what vacancies can be found.

Why are icebreakers needed and who works on them?

Main task icebreaker — paving the way for ships in conditions of continuous or drifting sea ice. These ships also:

• escort convoys of commercial ships;

• participate in rescue and research expeditions;

• provide delivery of goods to remote northern territories;

• participate in oil and gas projects on the shelf.

Icebreakers can be diesel-electric, gas turbine and even nuclear. Highly qualified specialists who are carefully selected work on board such vessels.

Work on an icebreaker is divided into several blocks: deck crew, engine crew, hotel and technical service, and special specialists. Depending on the type of vessel and its tasks, the crew can range from 30 to 100 people or more.

Deck crew

1. The captain and officers are responsible for the navigation, safety and management of the ship. Maritime education and international certificates are required.

2. Navigator - deals with plotting a course, which is especially difficult in Arctic conditions.

3. Boatswain, sailors - perform deck work, participate in mooring, repairs, and evacuations.

4. Pilots and ice advisors are specialists in navigating difficult ice areas.

 Machine command

1. The senior mechanic and his assistants monitor the serviceability of all energy and technical systems, including the rudder installation, powerful generators and boiler systems.

2. Electromechanics, motor mechanics - participate in the maintenance of diesel, steam or nuclear installations.

3. Welders and mechanics perform maintenance and urgent repairs on board.

Specialists of scientific and industrial missions

Icebreakers often operate:

• research engineers;

• hydrographic;

• meteorologists, oceanologists;

• drilling and resource extraction specialists;

• scientific equipment technicians.

These specialists are not directly related to the sea crew, but can be hired for the period of expeditions.

Service staff

On board you must have:

• cooks and assistant cooks - provide food for the crew;

• ship paramedics or doctors - especially important on long autonomous voyages;

• maids and cleaners (on large ships);

• supply specialists and storekeepers.

Working conditions and requirements

Working on an icebreaker - this is not a cruise. Discipline, physical endurance, and readiness for extreme conditions are important here: frost, pitching, long shifts, confined spaces.The applicant is required to:

• maritime education according to the profile;

• experience on similar types of vessels is an advantage;

• knowledge of English is often required;

• availability of a full package of maritime documents (STCW, medical examination, certificates);

• physical fitness and stress tolerance.

For work on nuclear icebreakers Special training and approval to work with nuclear power is required.

How to find a job on an icebreaker?

Icebreaker ship is not just a ship, but a real ice machine operating in the harshest conditions. Working here requires maximum dedication and responsibility, but in return it offers a stable income, preferential contracts and experience valued around the world. If you want to test yourself in real seamanship, an icebreaker can be an excellent step in your maritime career.

Employment on an icebreaker can be carried out through large public or private companies, as well as through crewing agencies with access to specialized projects. For example, our company Marine MAN offers proven vacancies for various types of vessels, including technical and research fleets. Convenient filters, support at all stages of registration, assistance in preparing documents - all this makes the job search process reliable and comfortable.