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Apprentice Marine Engineer

Svitzer Marine Limited · Nationwide · posted 24 July 2026

Wage
Competitive
Hours
45 hours a week
Duration
4 Years
Level
Higher (Level 4)
Standard
Small vessel chief engineer (level 4)
Starts
19 October 2026
Closing date
10 August 2026
Positions
6

Apply on the official government service →No Apprentice League account needed — we never gate applications.

  • Learning day to day operations of engineering aspects of the vessel at sea and alongside (not at sea)
  • Learning about vessels engines, thrusters and auxiliary equipment
  • Bunkering
  • Fault finding and diagnosis or issue on board the vessel
  • Conducting basic repairs (Potential to go to dry dock for full overhaul)
  • Record keeping
  • Stakeholder management i.e. Contractors etc. 
  • Preparing for surveys and audits
  • Plus a lot more, this list is non-exhaustive

Your training

The training will be split between sea phase and college phases. 

Sea phase relates to your onboard practical training, during this time you will:

  • Work 2 weeks on and 1 week off (You may not live aboard the vessel depending upon the local operation and may have to travel to/from for work/job)
  • You will be required to complete a Training Records Book and create an evidence workbook

College Phase - You will train at our nominated provider Fleetwood Nautical School and be required to live on campus during these phases:

  • You will complete all STCW Basic and Advanced Safety Training courses during these phases
  • You will also complete a level 3 and level 4 qualification in Marine Engineering
  • You will complete Workshop Skills course

Where it leads

If performance standards are met individuals will hopefully achieve Chief Engineer <9000kW <3000gt CoC. 

About Svitzer Marine Limited

Svitzer has provided safety and support at sea since 1833. We are a world leading towage company, which means we help our customers maneuver their larger ships safely and timely in and out of port and we do and our best in keeping the world supply of goods flowing. Whether working on our vessels or on the land, we are all a part of the Svitzer family and proud of the role we play in keeping global supply chains running smoothly.

Our tugboats may be small, but they're among the most powerful (for their size!) and technically advanced vessels on the water.

Operating in major ports across the UK and around the world, our engineers work with sophisticated propulsion systems, high-performance machinery and innovative marine technology to safely move some of the world's largest ships.

With over 4,000 employees and a fleet of 450+ vessels worldwide, Svitzer offers career opportunities that few companies can match.

Things to consider

All offers of apprenticeship will be subject to obtaining and valid ENG1 (Seafarer Medical). This is required to sail on any UK Flag merchant navy vessel. Failure to obtain and present a valid document means that you will not be able to proceed. 

Skills they're looking for

Communication skillsIT skillsAttention to detailProblem solving skillsAnalytical skillsLogicalTeam workingCreative

Entry requirements

  • GCSE English (grade 5) — essential
  • GCSE Maths (grade 6) — essential
  • GCSE Science (Preferrably Physics) (grade 6) — essential

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