FAQ: Mariner
Frequently Asked Questions: Mariner
Do I need seaman’s papers to serve on board a Mercy Ship vessel?
Both the Deck and Engineering departments (Technical Crew) consist of licensed and non-licensed crew members, depending on position. For example, all Officer and Rating positions do require current certificates of seafarer training. Other positions on board such as Entry Level positions and skilled trades (Carpenters, Welders, Electricians, HVACR, etc.) do not require maritime licensing.
What kind of certificates are required to serve in Deck or Engineering positions?
This varies with the position. All technical crew should have a current certificate of Basic Safety Training (BST) according to STCW standards. If you are lacking a current BST certificate, we provide that training 3 times a year at our International Offices in Texas, or can recommend an approved training location. For licensed crew members, a valid Certificate of Competency is required, along with a valid maritime medical certificate. Some national certificates are not recognized by the flag state (Malta) of the Africa Mercy. We will review your certificates during the application process. When accepted for service on board, be sure to bring your original maritime certificates with you.
Will my service time on the Mercy Ship count towards a Merchant Marine Certificate?
That depends on your licensing or certifying administration. You will do best to consult with them on any restrictions or limitations they may impose. The fact that our ships spend most of their time in port, as do many ‘stand-by’ vessels, means that some maritime administrations may not accept service time on board our ships, or they may accept it at a reduced rate, for example one day’s credit for each three days served.
Will my Navy experience benefit Mercy Ships?
That depends on what your specialty was, and what training and experience you’ve had. With regards to certificates, because we are required to follow Merchant Marine training and certificate standards, typically there is not a direct equivalent of your Naval rating or commission. We would however be more than happy to discuss your specific skills and training to see if you may be a fit within our Technical Crew.
Why does Mercy Ships register its ships in Malta?
Because of the international nature of our organization, we register our ships in Malta, which has no restrictions on the nationality of the technical crew.
Are Mercy Ships compliant with safety and environmental regulations?
Malta is signatory to IMO conventions, including SOLAS, MARPOL, ISM, ISPS, and STCW. Mercy Ships complies with these and other international regulations, as surveyed and audited by member societies of the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS). In addition to the international regulations, Malta, as a member of the European Union, imposes additional national regulations with which the ship must comply.
I’ve heard that Mercy Ships crew have to ‘pay their own way’; is there any consideration for professional mariners?
Mercy Ships is a non-profit, volunteer organization and does ask for volunteer crew to give their time and skills. We ask crew to raise or save enough money to pay for their own transportation expenses to and from the ship, their costs of living on board (‘crew fees’=room and board), and any personal expenses they may incur. Recognizing that professional mariners do not often have access to traditional missionary fund raising venues, Mercy Ships may be able to help provide limited financial assistance for qualified technical crew. Speak with your Human Resources representative for more information.
I’m interested in a sea-going career, but I don’t have any prior experience; can Mercy Ships help?
With a long-term commitment (minimum two years), Mercy Ships may provide entry level crew with basic maritime training, including STCW 95 Basic Safety Training (BST) (US Coast Guard Standards), and Watch Rating training, for either Deck or Engineering ratings (Maltese certificate). Speak with your Human Resources representative for more information.
