The maritime industry is one of the most vital sectors of the global economy, as it transports around 90% of world trade. Seafarers are the backbone of this industry, as they operate and maintain the ships that carry goods and passengers across the oceans. However, finding and retaining qualified and competent seafarers is not an easy task, as it requires effective recruitment and placement services that can match the right candidates with the right jobs.
In this blog post, we will explore the role and importance of seafarer recruitment and placement services in the maritime industry, and introduce you to one of the leading and reputed agencies in this field: Marine (Agency) Services Ltd. We will also discuss the various aspects of seafarer careers, such as training, job opportunities, legal and compliance issues, safety and welfare, career progression, and challenges.
By the end of this post, you will have a comprehensive understanding of what it takes to become a successful seafarer in the modern maritime industry.
Understanding Seafarer Recruitment Services
Defining Seafarer Recruitment Agencies
Seafarer recruitment agencies are organizations that provide manpower services to shipowners and managers who need crew for their vessels. They are responsible for sourcing, screening, selecting, hiring, training, and deploying seafarers for various types of ships and operations. They also handle administrative tasks such as visa processing, documentation, payroll, insurance, and repatriation.
Seafarer recruitment agencies play a crucial role in ensuring that seafarers are medically fit, professionally qualified, and legally authorized to work on board ships. They also help seafarers find suitable jobs that match their skills, preferences, and career goals.
Role in Maritime Workforce Management
Seafarer recruitment agencies are essential for managing the maritime workforce, as they help address the supply and demand gap of seafarers in the industry. According to the latest ICS/BIMCO Seafarer Workforce Report, there is a global shortage of around 26,240 officers and a surplus of around 119,280 ratings in 2020. The report also forecasts that the demand for officers will grow faster than the supply in the next decade, resulting in a potential deficit of 89,510 officers by 2030.
To cope with this challenge, seafarer recruitment agencies need to attract more candidates to join the maritime profession, especially from developing countries that have a large pool of young and educated workers. They also need to retain existing seafarers by providing them with competitive wages, benefits, incentives, training opportunities, and career development paths.
The Pioneers: MAS Marine Agency Services Ltd.
Legacy of Excellence
MAS Marine Agency Services Ltd. is a leading and well-reputed ship manning agency in Bangladesh, a sister concern of MAS Group. The company was established in 2000 with a vision to provide quality manpower services to the global maritime industry. Since then, MAS has grown to become one of the most trusted and reliable partners for many world-class shipowners and managers.
MAS is certified by Bureau Veritas (BV) for compliance with MLC-2006 standards, which ensure that seafarers are treated fairly and decently on board ships. MAS is also registered under the joint stock companies and duly licensed as a manning agent by the Department of Shipping, Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Commitment to Maritime Industry Growth
MAS is committed to contributing to the growth and development of the maritime industry by providing skilled and competent seafarers for various types of vessels. MAS has a fixed pool of over 2,100 registered seafarers under the Government Shipping Office Chittagong, Bangladesh. Out of these, over 500 are currently working on board ships through MAS.
MAS supplies crew for 25 full ships (totally manned by Bangladeshi crew) and more than 50 part ships (mixed crew) of different categories such as bulk carriers, oil tankers, chemical tankers, storage tankers, container ships, coaster supply vessels, etc. MAS also produces cadets and ratings in its own training institute: MAS Marine Academy.
Recruitment Process at MAS Marine Agency
Rigorous Screening and Assessment
Marine Agency Services Ltd. follows a rigorous screening and assessment process to select the best candidates for its clients. The process involves the following steps:
• Application: Candidates can apply online or offline by submitting their CVs and relevant documents to MAS.
• Interview: Candidates are interviewed by MAS staff to verify their personal details, educational qualifications, work experience, language proficiency, etc.
• Medical Examination: Candidates are required to undergo a medical examination by an approved doctor to ensure that they are physically and mentally fit for seafaring.
• Trade Test: Candidates are required to take a trade test to demonstrate their practical skills and knowledge in their respective fields.
• Final Selection: Candidates who pass all the above steps are selected by MAS and offered employment contracts with its clients.
Industry-Relevant Skill Evaluation
MAS evaluates the skills and competencies of its candidates based on industry standards and expectations. The evaluation criteria include:
• Professional Qualifications: Candidates must have valid certificates of competency (COC) or certificates of proficiency (COP) issued by the DOS or other recognized authorities. They must also have valid STCW certificates for basic and advanced training courses.
• Experience: Candidates must have relevant sea service experience on board similar types of vessels as required by the clients. They must also have good performance records and references from their previous employers.
• Language: Candidates must have good command of the English language (both spoken and written) as it is the common working language on board ships. They must also be able to communicate effectively with other crew members and authorities.
• Attitude: Candidates must have a positive attitude towards their work and colleagues. They must also be willing to learn new skills and adapt to changing situations.
Job Categories and Opportunities
Deck Department: Navigating the Ship
The deck department is responsible for navigating the ship safely and efficiently from one port to another. It also handles the cargo operations, mooring and anchoring, maintenance of deck equipment, security and safety drills, etc. The deck department consists of:
• Master/Captain: The highest-ranking officer on board who has overall command and responsibility for the ship, crew, cargo, passengers, environment, etc.
• Chief Officer/Chief Mate: The second-in-command who assists the master in all aspects of ship management. He is also in charge of cargo operations and deck maintenance.
• Second Officer/Second Mate: The officer who is responsible for navigation and watchkeeping on the bridge. He is also in charge of charts, publications, voyage planning, etc.
• Third Officer/Third Mate: The junior officer who assists the second officer in navigation and watchkeeping duties. He is also in charge of safety equipment and life-saving appliances.
• Deck Cadet: The trainee officer who learns the skills and knowledge required to become a deck officer under the supervision of senior officers.
• Bosun/Boatswain: The senior rating who leads and supervises the deck ratings in their daily tasks. He is also responsible for rigging, painting, chipping, etc.
• Able Seaman (AB): The rating who performs various duties on deck such as steering, lookout, mooring, anchoring, cargo handling, etc.
• Ordinary Seaman (OS): The rating who assists the ABs in their duties on deck. He is also involved in cleaning and maintenance work.
Engine Department: Powering the Vessel
The engine department is responsible for operating and maintaining the main engine and auxiliary machinery that power the vessel and provide essential services such as electricity, water, air conditioning, etc. The engine department consists of:
• Chief Engineer: The highest-ranking engineer on board who has overall responsibility for the engine department. He is also in charge of fuel management, spare parts inventory, budget control, etc.
• Second Engineer/First Assistant Engineer: The second-in-command who assists the chief engineer in all aspects of engine department management. He is also in charge of main engine operation and maintenance.
• Third Engineer/Second Assistant Engineer: The engineer who is responsible for auxiliary machinery operation and maintenance such as generators, pumps, compressors, etc.
• Fourth Engineer/Third Assistant Engineer: The junior engineer who assists the third engineer in auxiliary machinery operation and maintenance. He is also involved in cleaning and lubrication work.
• Engine Cadet: The trainee engineer who learns the skills and knowledge required to become an engine officer under the supervision of senior engineers.
• Fitter/Welder: The rating who performs various tasks related to metal fabrication and repair such as welding, cutting, grinding, etc.
• Oiler/Motorman: The rating who assists the engineers in operating and maintaining the machinery. He is also responsible for oiling, greasing, and adjusting the moving parts.
• Wiper: The rating who assists the oilers in their duties. He is also involved in cleaning and maintenance work.
Catering and Support: Ensuring Comfort and Safety
The catering and support department is responsible for providing food, accommodation, hygiene, and entertainment services to the crew and passengers on board. It also handles the medical, laundry, and sanitation facilities. The catering and support department consists of:
• Chief Cook/Steward: The senior rating who leads and supervises the catering staff in their daily tasks. He is also responsible for planning, preparing, and serving meals according to the dietary requirements and preferences of the crew and passengers.
• Cook/Assistant Cook: The rating who assists the chief cook in cooking and baking various dishes and desserts. He is also responsible for cleaning and maintaining the galley equipment and utensils.
• Messman/Stewardess: The rating who serves food and drinks to the crew and passengers in the mess room or dining area. He is also responsible for cleaning and maintaining the accommodation spaces such as cabins, toilets, etc.
• Electrician/Electrical Officer: The officer or rating who is responsible for installing, repairing, and maintaining the electrical systems and equipment on board such as lights, fans, sockets, etc.
• Doctor/Nurse/Medic: The officer or rating who is responsible for providing medical care and treatment to the crew and passengers in case of illness or injury. He is also responsible for maintaining the medical supplies and equipment on board.
Global Network and Partnerships
Expanding Horizons: International Collaborations
MAS has a global network of partners and collaborators that enable it to provide quality manpower services to its clients worldwide. MAS has established strong relationships with reputable shipowners and managers from countries such as Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, Korea, India, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, Egypt, Greece, Cyprus, Turkey, Germany, Netherlands, UK, USA, Canada, etc.
MAS also has regional offices and representatives in key maritime hubs such as Dubai. This office and representatives help MAS to coordinate with its clients and seafarers more effectively and efficiently.
Access to Exclusive Job Openings Worldwide
MAS has access to exclusive job openings worldwide through its global network of partners and collaborators. MAS can offer its seafarers various opportunities to work on different types of vessels such as bulk carriers, oil tankers, chemical tankers, storage tankers, container ships, coaster supply vessels, etc. MAS can also offer its seafarers various opportunities to work in different regions and routes such as Asia-Pacific, Middle East, Europe, America, Africa, etc.
Marine Agency helps its seafarers to find the best jobs that suit their skills, experience, and career aspirations. MAS also helps its seafarers to negotiate the best terms and conditions of employment with its clients, such as salary, leave, benefits, etc.
Legal and Compliance Assurance
Ensuring Regulatory Adherence
Marine Agency Services Ltd. ensures that its seafarers comply with all the relevant laws and regulations of the maritime industry. MAS follows the standards and guidelines of the International Maritime Organization (IMO), the International Labour Organization (ILO), the International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF), and other national and international authorities.
MAS also ensures that its seafarers have valid travel documents such as passports, seaman's books, visas, etc. MAS also ensures that its seafarers have valid certificates of competency (COC) or certificates of proficiency (COP) issued by the Department of Shipping Bangladesh (DOS) or other recognized authorities. MAS also ensures that its seafarers have valid STCW certificates for basic and advanced training courses.
Streamlined Visa and Documentation Process
MAS streamlines the visa and documentation process for its seafarers by providing them with professional guidance and assistance. MAS has a dedicated team of staff who handle the visa and documentation process for its seafarers from start to finish.
MAS liaises with the relevant embassies, consulates, immigration offices, and other authorities to obtain the necessary visas and permits for its seafarers. MAS also prepares and submits the required forms and documents for its seafarers such as application letters, contracts, medical reports, police clearance certificates, etc.
Onboard Safety and Welfare
Prioritizing Seafarer Well-Being
MAS Marine Agency prioritizes the safety and welfare of its seafarers on board ships by ensuring that they work in a healthy and comfortable environment. MAS ensures that its seafarers are provided with adequate food, water, accommodation, hygiene, medical care, entertainment, etc. on board ships.
MAS ensures that its seafarers are protected from any physical or mental harm or abuse on board ships. MAS ensures that its seafarers are treated fairly and respectfully by their employers and colleagues. MAS also ensures that its seafarers are paid on time and in full according to their contracts.
Emergency Response and Support Systems
MAS Marine Agency has an effective emergency response and support system for its seafarers in case of any accident or incident on board ships. MAS has a 24/7 hotline number that can be contacted by its seafarers or their families in case of any emergency or distress.
MAS has a team of staff who are trained and experienced in handling emergency situations such as fire, collision, piracy, injury, illness, death, etc. MAS also has a network of agents and lawyers who can provide legal assistance and representation to its seafarers in case of any dispute or claim.
Career Progression and Development
Professional Growth Opportunities
MAS Marine Agency offers various opportunities for professional growth and development to its seafarers throughout their careers. MAS helps its seafarers advance their ranks and qualifications by providing them with training and certification courses that are recognized by the maritime industry. MAS also helps its seafarers gain more experience and exposure by providing them with diverse and challenging assignments on different types of vessels and routes.
MAS helps its seafarers to enhance their skills and competencies by providing them with feedback and performance appraisals from their employers and supervisors. MAS also helps its seafarers to develop their leadership and management skills by providing them with mentoring and coaching from senior and experienced seafarers.
Training and Certification Advancements
MAS Marine Agency facilitates the training and certification advancements of its seafarers by providing them with access to quality education and training institutions that offer various courses and programs for seafarers. MAS has a MAS Marine Academy, which is an approved training institute that offers pre-sea training courses for cadets and ratings. MAS also has a partnership with Bangladesh Marine Academy, which is a premier maritime institution that offers diploma and degree courses for officers.
We assist its seafarers in obtaining the necessary certificates of competency (COC) or certificates of proficiency (COP) issued by the Department of Shipping Bangladesh (DOS) or other recognized authorities. MAS also assists its seafarers in obtaining the required STCW certificates for basic and advanced training courses such as personal survival techniques, fire prevention and firefighting, elementary first aid, personal safety and social responsibility, security awareness, etc.
Community and Corporate Responsibility
Environmental Initiatives
MAS Marine Agency is committed to protecting the environment and reducing the environmental impact of its operations. MAS follows the environmental policies and practices of the IMO, such as the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL) 1973 as amended, which regulates the discharge of oil, chemicals, sewage, garbage, etc. from ships.
MAS encourages its seafarers to adopt eco-friendly habits and behaviors on board ships, such as saving water and energy, recycling waste, using biodegradable products, etc. MAS also supports various environmental initiatives and campaigns, such as World Environment Day, Clean Up the World Day, the Earth Hour, etc.
Addressing Challenges in Maritime Careers
Mental Health and Well-Being at Sea
MAS Marine Agency recognizes that maritime careers can pose various challenges to the mental health and well-being of its seafarers. MAS understands that seafarers may face various stressors and pressures on board ships, such as long working hours, isolation, fatigue, boredom, homesickness, conflicts, etc.
MAS cares for the mental health and well-being of its seafarers by providing them with various resources and support to cope with these challenges. Some of these resources and support include:
• Counseling Services: MAS provides free and confidential counseling services to its seafarers who need professional help and guidance to deal with their personal or work-related issues. MAS has a team of qualified and experienced counselors who can provide online or phone counseling to its seafarers on board ships.
• Helpline Services: MAS provides a 24/7 helpline service to its seafarers who need emotional support or assistance in case of any crisis or emergency. MAS has a team of trained and compassionate staff who can listen and respond to the calls of its seafarers on board ships.
• Self-Help Resources: MAS provides various self-help resources to its seafarers who want to improve their mental health and well-being on board ships. These resources include books, magazines, videos, podcasts, apps, etc. that cover topics such as stress management, relaxation techniques, mindfulness, positive thinking, etc.
COVID-19 Pandemic Response
Ensuring Safety and Health During Global Crisis
MAS Marine Agency is committed to ensuring the safety and health of its seafarers during the global crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. MAS follows the guidelines and protocols issued by the World Health Organization (WHO), the IMO, the ILO, the ITF, and other relevant authorities.
MAS ensures that its seafarers are screened and tested for COVID-19 before joining or leaving the ships. MAS also ensures that its seafarers are vaccinated for COVID-19 as soon as possible. MAS also ensures that its seafarers are provided with personal protective equipment (PPE) such as masks, gloves, sanitizers, etc. on board ships.
MAS ensures that its seafarers are educated and informed about the prevention and control measures for COVID-19 on board ships. MAS also ensures that its seafarers are monitored and treated for COVID-19 symptoms or cases on board ships.
Adapting to New Norms in Maritime Industry
MAS Marine Agency is committed to adapting to the new norms in the maritime industry caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. MAS understands that the pandemic has brought various changes and challenges to the maritime industry, such as travel restrictions, port closures, crew changes, supply chain disruptions, etc.
MAS adapts to the new norms in the maritime industry by being flexible and resilient in its services and operations. MAS adjusts to the changing demands and requirements of its clients and seafarers by providing them with alternative solutions and options. MAS also collaborates with various stakeholders in the maritime industry by sharing information and resources.
Sustainability in Maritime Practices
Green Initiatives for Eco-Friendly Operations
MAS Marine Agency is committed to sustainability in maritime practices by implementing green initiatives for eco-friendly operations. MAS follows the principles and practices of the IMO, such as the International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships' Ballast Water and Sediments (BWM) 2004, which aims to prevent the spread of invasive aquatic species from ships' ballast water.
MAS also follows the principles and practices of the IMO, such as the International Convention for the Prevention of Air Pollution from Ships (MARPOL Annex VI) 1997 as amended, which aims to reduce the emissions of greenhouse gasses and other pollutants from ships' exhausts.
MAS supports various green initiatives and campaigns, such as the Green Award, which is a voluntary certification scheme that recognizes ships that demonstrate high standards of environmental performance. MAS also supports various green initiatives and campaigns, such as the Clean Shipping Index, which is a tool that measures and compares the environmental impact of ships.
Promoting Environmental Stewardship at Sea
MAS Marine Agency promotes environmental stewardship at sea by educating and motivating its seafarers to adopt eco-friendly habits and behaviors on board ships. MAS provides them with environmental awareness and training programs that cover topics such as waste management, energy conservation, water conservation, etc.
MAS also encourages its seafarers to participate in various environmental activities and events on board ships, such as beach clean-ups, recycling drives, environmental audits, etc. MAS also encourages its seafarers to share their environmental experiences and best practices with other crew members and stakeholders.
MAS also recognizes and rewards its seafarers who demonstrate outstanding environmental performance and leadership on board ships. MAS also showcases their achievements and stories on its website, social media, newsletter, etc.
How does MAS Marine Agency ensure seafarer safety during a pandemic?
MAS has implemented stringent health and safety protocols, including regular testing, quarantine measures, and access to medical support, to protect seafarers during global health crises.
What career growth opportunities are available for seafarers?
Seafarers partnering with MAS have access to ongoing training and certification programs, as well as opportunities for advancement within their respective departments.
How can seafarers apply for positions through the MAS Marine Agency?
Seafarers can apply for positions through the agency's online portal or by contacting the MAS team directly for personalized assistance and guidance.
What distinguishes MAS Marine Agency from other recruitment services?
MAS's legacy of excellence, commitment to industry growth, and comprehensive support for seafarers set it apart as a leading agency in maritime recruitment and placement.
Conclusion: Sailing Towards a Brighter Future
In conclusion, we have discussed the role and importance of seafarer recruitment and placement services in the maritime industry, and introduced you to one of the leading and reputed agencies in this field: MAS Marine Agency Services Ltd. We have also discussed the various aspects of seafarer careers, such as training, job opportunities, legal and compliance issues, safety and welfare, career progression, and challenges.
We hope that this blog post has given you a comprehensive understanding of what it takes to become a successful seafarer in the modern maritime industry. We also hope that this blog post has inspired you to pursue your dreams and aspirations in the maritime industry.
If you are interested in joining MAS Marine Agency as a seafarer or a client, please visit our website at or contact us at . We would love to hear from you and help you sail towards a brighter future.
Contact Us and Get Started on Your Maritime Journey!
Reach Out to MAS Marine Agency Services Ltd.
If you have any questions or queries about our services or operations, please feel free to reach out to us at any time. You can contact us through any of the following ways:
• Phone: +8801841047480
• Email: gm@masbd.info
• Website: https://www.mascrew.com/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marineagencyservice
We are always ready and happy to assist you with your needs and requests.
Begin Your Adventure in the Maritime Industry Today!
If you are ready to begin your adventure in the maritime industry today, please visit our website and register as a user. You can then browse our available job openings and apply for the ones that suit your skills, preferences, and career goals.
You can also follow us on our social media platforms to stay updated with our latest news and information about the maritime industry. You can also share your feedback and suggestions with us through our online survey or our email address.
We look forward to welcoming you to our MAS family and helping you achieve your maritime dreams. Thank you for choosing MAS Marine Agency Services Ltd. as your trusted partner in the maritime industry.