Dream job as trainee Scottish island seafarer open with salary up to £36,000

An incredible opportunity to move to Shetland and work as a deckhand on a sea vessel has come up.

Shetland Islands Council is currently hiring a trainee to work on one of its passenger ferries. The role could be perfect for those who have ever dreamed of getting away from the hustle and bustle and living a quieter life by the sea.

According to the job listing on the myjobscotland website, the starting salary for the position will be between £31,279.50 and £36,759.44 per year. The job will involve 42 hours of work per week, including five hours of contracted overtime.

Based in the scenic settlement of Gutcher on the northeast coast of Yell in the Shetland islands, the job will involve undertaking tasks under the direction of the vessel’s crew. The trainee is not part of the established crew of the vessel until gaining suitable qualifications and experience.

The vacancy is being advertised as a Career Graded post, which is a career development opportunity. This means the successful candidate will be trained to obtain the necessary skills, abilities, and knowledge to become a qualified seafarer.

During the first few months aboard, the post holder will be closely supervised whilst they work towards obtaining sea time for further training. After some time, they will have an increased level of initiative and independence on board.

As well as the opportunity to work in one of the most beautiful areas in Scotland, benefits of the job include a range of discounts at a variety of retailers and services. The successful applicant will also have access to exclusive offers when purchasing a new car from local seller Jim’s Garage.

Those applying for the job must be educated to National 4 level, or an equivalent such as Standard Grade or GCSE. They must also have the ability to pass a seafarer medical examination and obtain an ENG1 medical certificate.

The job listing adds: “Shetland is an archipelago in the north of the British Isles where you’ll find freedom, wildlife and wild beauty, but also a rich culture and dynamic, forward-looking society. The Islands have a thriving and diverse economy full of opportunities and offer residents the ideal work/life balance.

“Shetland combines stunning coastal landscapes and wide open spaces with friendly, bustling island communities. Factor in Shetland’s impressive modern amenities, highly regarded schools and the Islands offer a work life balance rarely found elsewhere.”

More information can be found on the myjobscotland website.

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