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career-vectorHow to become a Marine Surveyor – career guide for Australia

How to Become a Marine Surveyor in Australia: careers in Environmental

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Definition of a Marine Surveyor

The career of a Marine Surveyor is both dynamic and rewarding, offering professionals the opportunity to work at the intersection of maritime safety and engineering. Marine Surveyors play a crucial role in ensuring that vessels and marine structures comply with safety regulations and industry standards. Their work involves inspecting ships, offshore platforms, and other marine assets, focusing on their design, construction, and operational integrity. This career not only allows individuals to engage with cutting-edge technology but also to contribute significantly to the safety and efficiency of maritime operations.

In their day-to-day responsibilities, Marine Surveyors conduct thorough inspections of vessels, examining everything from hull integrity to machinery performance. They are tasked with evaluating compliance with statutory codes and industry standards, which requires a keen eye for detail and a strong understanding of maritime regulations. Additionally, they often witness tests of safety equipment and emergency systems, ensuring that all components function correctly. This role also involves preparing detailed reports and recommendations based on their findings, which are essential for maintaining the safety and reliability of marine operations.

Marine Surveyors typically work in outdoor environments, often at ports or on vessels, which means they must be adaptable to various weather conditions. Their work can involve long hours, especially when conducting inspections or investigations into marine accidents. However, the satisfaction derived from ensuring the safety of maritime activities and the opportunity to work closely with a variety of stakeholders, including ship owners and regulatory bodies, makes this career particularly fulfilling. The blend of technical expertise and practical application in a vibrant industry ensures that Marine Surveyors remain in demand, with opportunities for professional growth and advancement.

For those considering a career as a Marine Surveyor, a background in marine engineering or a related field is typically required, along with relevant certifications. The combination of technical knowledge and practical experience equips Marine Surveyors to navigate the complexities of maritime safety and compliance. As the maritime industry continues to evolve, the role of Marine Surveyors will remain vital, making it an exciting and impactful career choice for those passionate about the sea and engineering.

On this Page

What Will I Do

What Skills Do I Need

Career Snapshot

Resources

What does a Marine Surveyor do?

Marine Surveyors play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and compliance of marine vessels and structures. They meticulously inspect ships and other maritime assets to verify adherence to statutory codes and industry standards. This profession requires a keen eye for detail, as well as a comprehensive understanding of safety regulations and quality controls. Marine Surveyors often work outdoors, engaging with various stakeholders in the maritime industry, and their responsibilities can vary significantly from day to day.

  • Examine and approve design plans for vessels – Assessing the technical specifications and compliance of proposed vessel designs.
  • Inspect standards of construction – Evaluating the construction processes to ensure they meet regulatory requirements.
  • Coordinate or witness tests of construction materials – Overseeing the testing of materials used in vessel construction to ensure quality and safety.
  • Inspect and survey vessels – Conducting thorough inspections of hulls, machinery, and equipment during ship construction.
  • Conduct ongoing surveys on ships – Performing regular inspections throughout the lifespan of vessels to ensure continued compliance.
  • Witness tests of emergency and safety machinery – Ensuring that safety equipment functions correctly and meets industry standards.
  • Measure ships for tonnage and loading line assignment – Calculating the weight and load capacity of vessels for safe operation.
  • Investigate marine accidents – Collecting data and documenting findings related to maritime incidents.
  • Attend court as an expert witness – Providing expert testimony in legal proceedings, particularly in coronial inquests.

What skills do I need to be a Marine Surveyor?

A career as a Marine Surveyor requires a unique blend of technical expertise and practical skills. Individuals in this role must possess strong communication skills to effectively convey complex information to clients and stakeholders. Proficiency in planning and the use of advanced tools such as AutoCAD and Global Positioning System (GPS) equipment is essential for conducting accurate surveys and inspections. Additionally, a solid understanding of marine engineering principles and regulations is crucial, as Marine Surveyors are responsible for ensuring that vessels and structures comply with safety and quality standards.

Attention to detail is paramount in this profession, as Marine Surveyors must meticulously examine vessels and their components to identify potential issues. The ability to interpret technical documents and codes of practice is also vital, as is the capacity to compile and evaluate data for reporting purposes. Furthermore, practical experience in the maritime industry, along with relevant qualifications such as a degree in marine surveying or a related field, can significantly enhance one’s prospects in this dynamic and rewarding career.

Skills/attributes

  • Strong attention to detail
  • Knowledge of marine safety regulations
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions
  • Proficiency in using surveying equipment and technology
  • Understanding of engineering principles
  • Problem-solving skills
  • Ability to conduct thorough inspections and assessments
  • Strong analytical skills
  • Teamwork and collaboration abilities
  • Time management and organisational skills
  • Knowledge of maritime laws and standards
  • Experience in report writing and documentation
  • Adaptability to changing environments and situations
  • Technical proficiency in software such as AutoCAD

Does this sound like you?


Career Snapshot for a Marine Surveyor

Marine Surveyors play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and compliance of marine vessels and structures. They are responsible for inspecting ships and other marine assets, focusing on adherence to statutory codes and quality standards. This profession requires a keen eye for detail and a solid understanding of maritime regulations.

  • Average Age: 45 years
  • Gender Distribution: 100% male
  • Average Weekly Hours: 55 hours (92% work full-time)
  • Average Salary: AU$83,300 per year (with a range from AU$51,000 to AU$120,000)
  • Unemployment Rate: Low, with current vacancies indicating a stable demand
  • Number of People Employed: Approximately 1,900
  • Projected Growth: Stable demand expected in the coming years

Marine Surveyors typically work in various industries, including transport, public administration, and manufacturing. The role often involves outdoor work, requiring adaptability to different weather conditions. To enter this field, individuals usually need a qualification in marine surveying and relevant experience in the maritime industry.

Source: Your Career, Payscale, ABS 2021 Census


Environmental Career resources

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