Maritime Notary Specialist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of maritime business, the focus on Maritime Notary Specialists is increasingly important.

As global trade and shipping continue to evolve, the demand for skilled professionals who can navigate, handle, and protect our maritime legal procedures grows.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a Maritime Notary Specialist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply interested in the intricate details of maritime notarial services,

You’ve landed in the right spot.

Today, we present a customizable Maritime Notary Specialist job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Maritime Notary Specialist Duties and Responsibilities

Maritime Notary Specialists execute a range of duties related to the authentication and witnessing of signatures on maritime legal documents.

They ensure that all documents are in order and legally binding.

Their tasks may vary depending on the specific maritime sector they work in, but general responsibilities include:

• Authenticate and witness signatures on maritime documents such as Bills of Sale, Deeds, Mortgages, and Powers of Attorney
• Verify the identity of individuals involved in the signing of maritime documents
• Ensure that all parties signing the document are doing so willingly and under their own power
• Record all notarial acts in a notary journal
• Maintain updated knowledge on maritime laws and regulations
• Process, authenticate and certify various maritime-related documents including ship mortgages and transfers
• Ensure all documents are kept confidential and secure
• Provide advice and information to clients about the notarization process
• Coordinate with maritime authorities, shipping companies, and legal professionals

 

Maritime Notary Specialist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a diligent Maritime Notary Specialist to be responsible for the execution of legal documents and verification of identity in relation to maritime affairs.

The Maritime Notary Specialist’s duties include providing notary services for maritime-related documentation, ensuring all legal procedures are adhered to, and facilitating the smooth operation of maritime contracts and agreements.

Our ideal candidate is familiar with maritime law, possesses excellent attention to detail, and has strong communication skills.

Ultimately, the role of the Maritime Notary Specialist is to ensure the legality and proper execution of maritime contracts and agreements in compliance with the appropriate legal standards.

 

Responsibilities

• Provide notary services for maritime-related documentation
• Ensure all legal procedures and protocols are adhered to
• Assist in the preparation and review of maritime contracts and agreements
• Work closely with maritime lawyers and stakeholders to ensure smooth operation
• Verify the identities of individuals involved in the signing of maritime documents
• Record and maintain comprehensive records of all notary services rendered
• Stay abreast of changes in maritime law and notary procedures

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Notary Public, preferably in maritime affairs
• Deep understanding of maritime law
• Excellent attention to detail
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to handle sensitive, confidential information
• Current Notary Public commission
• Bachelor’s degree in Law or relevant field is advantageous

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Maritime Notary Specialist
• Work Environment: Office setting with occasional travel required for maritime inspections or client meetings.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head of Legal or Maritime Law Specialist.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $70,000 minimum to $100,000 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 Maritime Notary Specialist Do?

A Maritime Notary Specialist is a legal professional specialized in notarizing documents related to maritime activities and maritime laws.

They are often employed by legal firms, shipping companies, or independently offer their services.

Their core responsibilities include preparing and reviewing various maritime documents such as Bills of Lading, Ship Mortgages, and maritime contracts.

They ensure these documents are legally compliant, properly executed, and notarized as required.

They also assist in the registration of ships and marine vessels, transfers of ownership, and other related legal procedures.

They may be involved in settling disputes regarding maritime activities or mediate between parties involved in maritime contracts.

Maritime Notary Specialists are often consulted during the drafting of maritime insurance policies, ensuring that all documents meet the legal requirements and are protected from potential legal disputes.

They are also responsible for verifying the identities of the signing parties, ensuring they understand the documents they’re signing, and confirming that all signatures and necessary stamps are in place, hence making a document legally binding.

In some instances, they may need to travel to ships, ports, or other maritime locations to provide their notary services.

This role often requires a sound understanding of both national and international maritime laws and regulations.

 

Maritime Notary Specialist Qualifications and Skills

A Maritime Notary Specialist should have a blend of legal knowledge, industry experience and soft skills to effectively fulfill their duties, such as:

• Profound knowledge of maritime law and shipping regulations to ensure compliance with all legal requirements.
• Exceptional attention to detail to thoroughly review and notarize maritime documents, and to ensure that all necessary signatures, seals, and additional documentation are present and valid.
• Strong communication skills to liaise with clients, maritime officials and other stakeholders, and to provide clear explanations of complex legal documentation and processes.
• Interpersonal skills to build and maintain relationships with clients, often working under stressful circumstances and tight deadlines.
• Organizational skills to manage multiple tasks and cases at once, maintaining accurate records and ensuring all tasks are completed in a timely manner.
• Strong understanding of international trade and shipping practices, and the ability to stay informed of any changes to these practices or to related laws and regulations.
• An ability to maintain confidentiality and a high degree of professional ethics as they are privy to sensitive and proprietary information.
• Experience with notary procedures and tools, and the ability to quickly adapt to new technologies and methods of document certification.

 

Maritime Notary Specialist Experience Requirements

Maritime Notary Specialists typically require a Bachelor’s degree in Law or a related field.

They also need to pass a certification program to become a notary public, which involves understanding the legal procedures and responsibilities of the role.

Entry-level candidates are expected to have at least 1-2 years of experience, which may be gained through internships or part-time roles in legal offices or at marine agencies.

They may also have experience in roles such as Maritime Law Assistant, Maritime Legal Aide, or other related roles.

Candidates with 3-5 years of experience often enhance their knowledge in maritime law and notary procedures, often by working in roles such as Junior Maritime Notary or Assistant Legal Counsel in maritime organizations.

Those with more than 5 years of experience typically have significant expertise in maritime regulations and notary duties.

They may also have experience in managerial roles or team leadership positions, and may be ready to handle complex and high-level maritime notarization tasks.

The role also requires a good understanding of maritime law and international conventions, as well as excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.

Ongoing professional development in the form of seminars, workshops, and courses related to maritime law and notary practices is also beneficial.

 

Maritime Notary Specialist Education and Training Requirements

Maritime Notary Specialists typically require a bachelor’s degree in maritime studies, law, or a related field.

They need to have a solid understanding of maritime laws and regulations, shipping logistics, and international trade principles.

After obtaining a bachelor’s degree, aspiring Maritime Notary Specialists must undertake a specialized training course approved by the National Notary Association or a similar organization to become a Notary Public.

This course includes studying legal principles, notarial practices, and ethical considerations.

In order to practice, Maritime Notary Specialists need to pass a notary public examination and successfully apply for a notarial commission in their state.

Each state has different requirements for notarial commissions, but most require candidates to be over 18, possess a clean criminal record, and demonstrate a good understanding of notarial law and practice.

Further specialization in the maritime field may require additional training and certification.

For instance, a certification from the Maritime Law Association or another respected organization can be beneficial.

Continuing education is important in this field as maritime laws and international trade agreements frequently change.

This is often achieved through seminars, workshops, or further post-graduate study.

A master’s degree in maritime law or related discipline, although not mandatory, may enhance a candidate’s opportunities for higher positions and demonstrate a strong dedication to the field.

 

Maritime Notary Specialist Salary Expectations

A Maritime Notary Specialist can expect to earn an average salary of $65,000 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings may vary depending on factors such as years of experience, the degree of specialization, geographic location, and the hiring company.

 

Maritime Notary Specialist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Maritime Notary Specialist need?

Maritime Notary Specialists should possess extensive knowledge about maritime laws, the ability to comprehend and interpret legal documents, and strong attention to detail.

They should have excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact with various stakeholders, including ship owners, crew, and government officials.

They must also have good organizational abilities, problem-solving skills, and be able to maintain confidentiality.

 

Do Maritime Notary Specialists need a degree?

Yes, Maritime Notary Specialists typically need a degree in law or a related field.

A specialization in maritime law is highly desirable.

They also need to be commissioned as a notary public in their jurisdiction, which may require additional training and certification.

 

What should you look for in a Maritime Notary Specialist resume?

A Maritime Notary Specialist’s resume should display a degree in law or a related field, with a focus on maritime law.

It should also show their notary public commission status and any additional certifications.

Experience in maritime operations, including dealing with maritime contracts, ship mortgages, and bills of sale, is also crucial.

Excellent communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills should also be evident.

 

What qualities make a good Maritime Notary Specialist?

A good Maritime Notary Specialist is diligent, reliable, and detail-oriented, ensuring all legal documents are accurate and legally binding.

They should be adaptable to work in various environments, from shipyards to office settings.

They need to be highly knowledgeable in maritime laws and regulations and have excellent communication skills to interact with various stakeholders effectively.

 

Is it challenging to hire Maritime Notary Specialists?

Hiring Maritime Notary Specialists can be challenging due to the niche skill set and experience required for the job.

It is crucial to find a candidate with the right combination of legal knowledge, maritime industry experience, and notary public certification.

Providing competitive salaries, continuous training opportunities, and a supportive work environment can attract qualified candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve navigated the vast ocean of what it truly means to be a Maritime Notary Specialist.

Surprised?

It’s not just about stamping documents.

It’s about steering the helm of legal compliance within the maritime industry, one document at a time.

With our trusty Maritime Notary Specialist job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready to set sail.

But why drop anchor here?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your next port of call for crafting precise job listings or sharpening your resume to excellence.

Remember:

Every document notarized is a part of a bigger voyage.

Let’s navigate these waters. Together.

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