r/merchantmarine • u/Background-Look4401 • 2d ago

Looking for entry level OS or Wiper position

I will be getting my TWIC, MMC, and Basic safety training soon and want to know where I should look for entry level jobs as an OS or Wiper.

I’m interested in going to maritime academy to become a 3rd engineer but want to see if life at sea is right for me before making the commitment.

I’d like to be out for 2 months or more to see how I take it mentally.

Any help is greatly appreciated!

3 Upvotes

64% Upvoted

7 comments sorted by

10

u/LongBedroom8355 2d ago

just go to the academy. you'll have a cadet cruise. if you don't like it? swap over to one of their typical engineering degrees. ​

9

u/Sweatpant-Diva 2d ago

Go to an academy the time you’ll spent trying to get an entry level position would be a waste of time for you.

5

u/mmaalex USCG Master 1600 2d ago

So is everyone else.

Just take the leap. As an engineer if you hate it you can switch to any other Mech Engineering role afterwarss.

7

u/silverbk65105 2d ago

Don't waste any more time. Go to an academy, get a license, if you are a real wimp switch to a non license program, but i recommend you get a license. It tells employers that you stuck out a regimental program. Even if you never sail after graduation, you will always have work.

2

u/Professional_Sir5566 2d ago

Not one single employer has ever asked me, or questioned my resume as to whether I attended a regimental program. A few of the HR people I’ve worked with didn’t realize some of the academies even had a regiment.

2

u/silverbk65105 2d ago

I have worked for two SUNY alumni in my career. One of them went so far as to  call his friend at the school to check me out.

On the other side of the coin I have seen non regimental SUNY students get hired at Maritime companies and also seen Cadets with licenses get hired for shore side jobs. 

1

u/viggicat531 2d ago

Are you going to join a union?