**The Ultimate Guide to a Career as a Tanker Job: Everything You Need to Know**

For decades, the tanker job has been a staple of the oil and gas industry, providing the backbone of global transportation for refined petroleum products, chemicals, and other hazardous materials. As the demand for energy transportation continues to rise, the importance of tanker jobs has become more apparent than ever. From tankermen who navigate the treacherous waters of the world's oceans to the supply chain and logistics teams that keep the clockwork of the tanker industry running, those who pursue a career in tankers benefit from a rewarding and lucrative occupation that requires a unique blend of nautical expertise, technical knowledge, and safety skills.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll take you through everything you need to know about pursuing a career as a tanker job, from the different types of tankers and job roles to the qualifications, salary ranges, and required skills. Whether you're considering a career at sea or on land, this article will provide you with valuable insights into the diverse and dynamic world of the tanker industry.

Types of Tankers and Job Roles

The tanker industry is comprised of a wide range of vessels, each designed to transport specific types of cargo. The main types of tankers include:

* **Oil tankers**: These vessels transport crude oil and petroleum products, including gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel. There are multiple subcategories of oil tankers, including:

* Very Large Crude Carriers (VLCCs)

* Large Crude Carriers (LCCs)

* Medium Crude Carriers (MCCs)

* Small Crude Carriers (SCCs)

* **Chemical tankers**: These vessels transport various types of chemicals and petrochemicals, each with their own unique handling procedures.

* **Product tankers**: These ships transport refined petroleum products such as gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, and other fuel products.

The roles on board a tanker vary depending on the vessel's size and type. Some common job roles include:

* **Tankerman**: responsible for navigating the vessel, ensuring safe and efficient cargo handling, and managing the crew.

* **Engineer**: responsible for the maintenance and repair of the vessel's engines, generators, and other equipment.

* **Chief Officer**: second-in-command on board, responsible for navigation, cargo operations, and crew supervision.

* **Purser**: responsible for managing the crew's personal and financial affairs, as well as maintaining the vessel's accounting records.

To become a tanker job, you'll need to meet the necessary qualifications and skills, which we'll outline below.

Qualifications and Skills

To qualify as a tanker job, you'll need a range of skills and qualifications, including:

* **Education**: a high school diploma or equivalent and an STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping) certification.

* **Experience**: many employers require at least a year or two of experience on board a vessel or in a related field.

* **Training**: specialized training in areas such as First Aid, Fire Fighting, and Emergency Procedures.

* **Licenses**: certain roles, such as Master or Chief Officer, require a merchant marine license.

* **Knowledge**: proficiency in areas such as navigation, cargo operations, and safety procedures.

Some tanker jobs may also require specialized skills, such as proficiency in languages, STCW certificates, or hazardous materials handling.

Salary Ranges and Benefits

Salaries for tanker jobs vary widely depending on the role, employer, location, and experience. Here are some approximate salary ranges for tanker roles:

* **Tankerman**: $40,000 - $70,000 per year.

* **Engineer**: $60,000 - $100,000 per year.

* **Chief Officer**: $80,000 - $120,000 per year.

* **Purser**: $50,000 - $90,000 per year.

Tanker jobs offer a range of benefits, including:

* **Salary increases based on experience**

* **Paid training and certifications**

* **Accommodation on board**

* **Paid time off**

* **A unique and rewarding career path**

Training and Certification

To become a tanker job, you'll need to undergo specialized training and certification. Here are some of the key programs and certifications:

* **STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping) program**: mandatory for all crew members and officers on board oil tankers.

* **Ship Navigation**: required for pilots and navigators on board oil tankers.

* **ECDIS (Electronic Chart Display and Information System)**: mandatory for navigators and officers on board oil tankers.

* **Specialized training in areas such as First Aid, Fire Fighting, and Emergency Procedures**

Some examples of training programs and certifications include:

* **OPITO (Offshore Petroleum Industry Training Organisation) certifications**: for tanker operators and crew members working on offshore oil and gas installations.

* **Shell BOSIET (Basis Offshore Safety Industries Emergency Training)**: for offshore tanker operators and crew members.

* **Rigger audit certification**: for those working on deck, obtaining basic training requirements to qualify them to operate access platforms.

Employment Opportunities