Marine Surveyor Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an era of advanced maritime technology, the role of marine surveyors has become increasingly significant.

As maritime commerce progresses, the demand for skilled professionals who can inspect, analyze, and maintain our maritime operations continues to grow.

But what exactly is expected of a marine surveyor?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or just fascinated by the maritime industry,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable marine surveyor job description template, crafted for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Marine Surveyor Duties and Responsibilities

Marine Surveyors are responsible for inspecting the body and machinery of water vessels to make sure they meet regulatory standards and safety requirements.

Their work is crucial for the safe and efficient operation of ships and other sea vessels.

The duties and responsibilities of a Marine Surveyor include:

• Performing detailed inspections of vessels, including the hull, machinery, equipment, and ship’s carryings
• Checking compliance with national and international laws, as well as safety and environmental policies
• Evaluating the condition of the ship’s structure and its equipment, including navigation and safety systems
• Preparing detailed reports on the condition of the ship, including damage, wear, and potential risks
• Investigating marine accidents, including issues of liability and potential claims
• Advising on repair and maintenance work, and verifying that such work has been carried out effectively
• Assessing the vessel’s value for insurance purposes
• Providing expert advice on maritime legal issues, such as salvage rights or disputes between parties

 

Marine Surveyor Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a diligent Marine Surveyor to conduct detailed examinations and assessments of marine vessels and their equipment.

The Marine Surveyor’s responsibilities include carrying out inspections to assess seaworthiness, examining cargo to ensure proper storage and handling, and producing reports detailing inspection findings.

Our ideal candidate has strong analytical abilities, a keen eye for detail, and is knowledgeable in maritime regulations and standards.

Ultimately, the role of the Marine Surveyor is to ensure that all marine vessels and operations meet required safety and quality standards.

 

Responsibilities

• Perform detailed inspections of marine vessels and their equipment, ensuring compliance with various standards and regulations
• Evaluate the condition of a ship’s hull, machinery and equipment to identify any potential safety hazards or structural issues
• Inspect cargo handling and stowage equipment to ensure they are in good working order
• Produce detailed reports on the condition of the vessel, its equipment and cargo
• Provide recommendations on necessary repairs or improvements to ensure compliance with safety regulations
• Consult with ship owners, operators and insurance companies regarding safety practices, equipment usage and other matters
• Stay updated on changes in maritime regulations and inspection techniques

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Marine Surveyor or similar role
• Familiarity with marine vessels and their equipment
• Detailed knowledge of maritime safety regulations and standards
• Ability to produce clear and concise inspection reports
• Excellent observation and analytical skills
• Strong communication and consultation skills
• Degree in Marine Engineering, Maritime Studies or a related field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Marine Surveyor
• Work Environment: Mostly outdoor, on-site at docks, shipyards, or at sea. Some office work for reporting and consultation. Travel may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Marine Surveyor Team Lead or Director of Marine Operations.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $60,000 minimum to $90,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Marine Surveyor Do?

Marine Surveyors typically work for shipping companies, insurance companies, or they can also work as self-employed individuals.

Their main job is to inspect and examine the condition of seagoing vessels such as ships, boats, yachts, and tankers to ensure that they comply with various standards and regulations.

They work closely with ship owners, marine insurance companies, and other marine professionals to determine the seaworthiness of a vessel.

This includes the hull, machinery, equipment, and other ship systems to assure that they meet the national and international safety standards.

Marine Surveyors are also responsible for inspecting the vessel’s cargo handling and stowage equipment to ensure that they are in proper working order.

They may also survey the cargo to verify its condition and value, and to confirm that it has been stowed correctly and safely.

Their job often extends to performing damage surveys after an accident, providing a detailed report of the damage, cause, and recommended repairs.

In the case of a new ship construction or repair, they monitor the progress and quality of the work, ensuring it complies with the agreed specifications.

Marine Surveyors are also known to conduct investigations into maritime accidents, providing expert testimony in court when necessary.

They play a critical role in maintaining safety standards within the maritime industry.

 

Marine Surveyor Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Marine Surveyor should possess skills and qualifications that align with the complexity and responsibility of the role, including:

• Technical knowledge of vessel systems, structures and operations to effectively inspect and assess vessels and other marine structures.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to identify potential issues and recommend corrective actions.
• Excellent attention to detail to ensure comprehensive and accurate inspections and assessments.
• Strong communication skills to prepare detailed reports, communicate findings and recommendations, and liaise with stakeholders such as ship owners, operators, and regulatory agencies.
• Ability to work under pressure and in challenging conditions, as marine surveying can involve physical work in various environments and weather conditions.
• Knowledge of marine laws and regulations to ensure compliance during inspections.
• Proficiency in using various surveying tools and technologies.
• Customer service skills to maintain strong relationships with clients and stakeholders.
• Navigational skills to safely conduct surveys at sea or in port.

 

Marine Surveyor Experience Requirements

An entry-level Marine Surveyor may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often acquired through internships or part-time roles related to maritime activities.

This experience may be in roles such as Marine Technician, Maritime Operations Assistant, or other marine-related roles.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience often have a deeper understanding of the marine industry and may have gained significant experience in inspecting and evaluating the condition of ships and other maritime vessels.

These professionals usually start their careers as Assistant Marine Surveyors before moving to a full-fledged Marine Surveyor role.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are considered highly experienced in the field, and may have developed specialized skills in areas such as marine engineering, naval architecture, or cargo surveying.

These professionals may also have some leadership experience and could be ready for senior or managerial roles within the marine surveying industry.

Additionally, many Marine Surveyors hold a degree in maritime studies or a related field, and may possess certifications from recognized maritime organizations, further enhancing their expertise and qualifications.

 

Marine Surveyor Education and Training Requirements

Marine Surveyors typically require a bachelor’s degree in marine engineering, naval architecture, or a related field.

They often have a background in maritime operations, gained through experience in roles such as ship’s officer or marine engineer, and may also have served in the Navy or Coast Guard.

Coursework for marine surveyors usually includes subjects like marine construction, ship stability, marine electrical systems, and maritime law.

Many employers require marine surveyors to be certified by a recognized professional organization, such as the International Institute of Marine Surveying or the National Association of Marine Surveyors in the United States.

Some marine surveyor positions may require a master’s degree, particularly those involving complex investigations or supervisory duties.

Furthermore, ongoing training in areas such as new marine technology, environmental regulations, and safety standards is often necessary.

As marine surveying is a field that requires practical experience, internships or work placements are highly beneficial and may be required by some employers.

Lastly, due to the nature of the work, marine surveyors should also have strong swimming skills and possibly a scuba diving license.

 

Marine Surveyor Salary Expectations

A Marine Surveyor earns an average salary of $68,345 (USD) per year.

The actual income may vary depending on factors such as experience, certifications, geographical location, and the company that employs them.

 

Marine Surveyor Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Marine Surveyor need?

Marine Surveyors need a solid background in maritime operations, strong observational skills, knowledge of maritime safety regulations and standards, and an understanding of ship design and construction.

They should have strong report-writing skills, as well as the ability to communicate effectively with various stakeholders.

An understanding of marine insurance and damage assessment is also beneficial.

 

Do Marine Surveyors need a degree?

Many Marine Surveyors have a degree in a relevant field such as marine engineering or naval architecture, though it’s not always a requirement.

Significant work experience in the maritime industry can often be considered in lieu of a formal degree.

However, professional certification from an organization like the International Institute of Marine Surveying or the National Association of Marine Surveyors can enhance a Marine Surveyor’s credibility.

 

What should you look for in a Marine Surveyor resume?

A Marine Surveyor’s resume should highlight their experience in the maritime field.

This could include previous roles as a ship officer, marine engineer, or naval architect.

Look for detailed descriptions of their surveying experience, including the types of vessels they’ve inspected and the nature of inspections conducted.

Certifications from recognized marine surveying bodies should also be included.

 

What qualities make a good Marine Surveyor?

A good Marine Surveyor is meticulous, detail-oriented, and has a thorough understanding of maritime regulations and standards.

They should have strong analytical skills to assess the condition of a vessel accurately.

Good communication skills are also essential, as they often have to liaise with ship owners, insurers, and regulatory bodies.

They must also be physically fit, as the job can involve climbing, lifting, and working in confined spaces.

 

Is it difficult to hire Marine Surveyors?

Hiring Marine Surveyors can be challenging due to the specialized knowledge and experience required for the role.

There is also a relatively small pool of qualified candidates, particularly for those looking for surveyors with specific types of vessel experience.

However, offering competitive salaries and opportunities for professional development can help attract top talent.

 

Conclusion

And there it is.

Today, we’ve delved into the depths of what being a marine surveyor truly involves.

And you know what?

It’s not just about inspecting and reporting on marine vessels.

It’s about safeguarding our seas, one vessel inspection at a time.

With our detailed marine surveyor job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to navigate your career path.

But why stop at the horizon?

Sail further with our job description generator. It’s your next port of call for creating precision-crafted job listings or fine-tuning your resume to naval precision.

Remember:

Every vessel inspection contributes to the bigger picture.

Let’s navigate these waters. Together.

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