Exploring the varied job roles and opportunities in the fishing industry

Fishing is a challenging but rewarding career. Both the seafood and fishing sectors are cornerstones of the UK’s national heritage – contributing significantly to food security and economic growth. But the last decade has unfortunately seen the industry’s workforce decline. The total number of workers has fallen by 1,700, mainly due to an ageing workforce and limited appeal to younger people.

A fundamental key to securing the future of the UK fishing industry is education – particularly younger generations – on the opportunities a career in the fishing sector can offer and to equip them with the skills to thrive within the industry. Despite its declining workforce, the seafood industry is still evolving – and quickly. The technical expertise of the country’s fishing sector, as with other maritime pursuits, depends heavily on highly skilled labour, spanning across engineering, science, maths, among other skills. Many people are not aware of the vast range of roles available.

To help show the variety of careers available we have outlined the key job roles on board a commercial fishing vessel and what they entail.

Skipper:

The skipper is the captain of the vessel and is responsible for the safety, navigation, and fishing operations of the trawler. The skipper also manages the crew and communicates with the shore-based management and authorities. The skipper needs to have a valid certificate of competency and experience in fishing and seamanship.

First Mate:

The mate is the second-in-command of the vessel and assists the skipper in all aspects of the trawler’s operations. The mate also supervises the deck crew and ensures that the fishing gear and equipment are in good condition. The mate needs to have a valid certificate of competency and experience in fishing and seamanship.

Second Mate:

The second mate is third in command (or on some ocean liners, fourth) and is usually the ship’s navigator. They assist the Skipper and First Mate in navigating the ship, maintain watchkeeping duties, and use navigational equipment. Safety is also a top priority, involving the upkeep of safety equipment, overseeing deck operations, and responding to emergencies.

Engineer:

Engineers oversee the maintenance and repair of the trawler’s engine, machinery, and electrical systems. Engineers also monitor the fuel consumption, refrigeration, and water supply of the vessel. The engineer needs to have a valid certificate of competency and experience in marine engineering.

Boatswain (Bo’sun)

Boatswains organise the crew on deck and at the fishing hold to carry out the direction of the Skipper and/or First Mate. The Bo’sun is the leader of operations on deck and coordinates the maintenance, assembly, repair and deployment of fishing gear while ensuring the safety of all on deck and assuring that hygiene standards are met.

Factory Manager:

The factory manager oversees the sorting, grading, processing and freezing of fish on board. The factory manager also ensures that quality standards, hygiene regulations, and production targets are met. The factory manager needs to have a valid certificate of competency and experience in fish processing and management.

Factory Worker:

Factory workers perform various tasks related to the processing and freezing of fish, such as sorting, grading, filleting, packing, labelling, and storing. The factory worker also operates the machinery and equipment used in the factory.

Deckhand:

The deckhand assists in the fishing operations of the trawler, such as setting, hauling, and mending the nets, lines, or pots. The deckhand also handles the catch, cleans the deck, and helps with other duties as assigned by the skipper or mate. The deckhand needs to have basic skills in fishing and seamanship.

Whilst this is a snapshot of roles onboard a pelagic freezer trawler like ours, the career opportunities within the fishing industry are vast, from crew members on fishing vessels, to fish processors, fishery managers, marine biologists, engineers, and more. This level of diversity allows individuals to find a job that aligns with their skills, interests, and career goals.

Fishing also allows for additional benefits that appeal to those looking for a career away from a traditional on shore schedule. The fishing industry can offer the opportunity to work outdoors and the chance to experience the beauty and serenity of the ocean, as well as independence and the development of a wide range of transferable skills.

In order to maintain its output, we must raise awareness of how rewarding a career at sea can be. Recent advancements in technology make today’s seafaring both a safe and enriching career option.

At North Atlantic Fishing Company, we are committed to developing the next generation of fishers, that’s why we have established productive partnerships with the Hull Sea Cadets, Hull Trinity House Academy, and the Blackpool and Fylde Nautical Campus. Providing opportunities for young people to learn more about and pursue maritime and fishing careers is critical for achieving and ensuring future growth for the UK fishing industry.