Deckhand Courses
A Deckhand performs cleaning, maintenance, cargo handling, mooring, and safety patrols on a ship, requiring physical fitness, teamwork, and strict adherence to safety procedures.
AI Exposure
Low
Core skills such as social intelligence and complex physical tasks remain beyond the capabilities of current AI.
AI exposure data adapted from Felten, Raj & Seamans (2021). Shortage data sourced from Jobs and Skills Australia (2024).
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How do I become a Deckhand
Get qualified to work as a Deckhand with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
SFI20219
Get a job on a fishing boat with the SFI20219 Certificate II in Fishing Operations. This nationally recognised training course qualifies you for work in the Australian seafood industry, and delivers hands-on skills for living and working on board a commercial fishing vessel. The course covers: communication and shipboard safety, survival at sea, preparing and deploying fishing equipment to land a catch, maintaining the temperature of seafood, repairing nets and fishing equipment. Enquire now for the list ...
Career opportunities
MAR20321
Duration
3 weeks - 12 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online, Traineeship
Get your coxswain’s ticket with the MAR20321 Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Coxswain Grade 1 Near Coastal). This nationally recognised qualification is the training component of the AMSA certification for coxswain’s working on near coastal commercial vessels up to 12 metres. The course covers: operating inboard and outboard motors, navigating and handling a vessel up to 12 metres, complying with maritime regulations, responding to emergency situations, vessel abandonment procedures, surviving at s...
Career opportunities
Duration
3 weeks - 12 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online, Traineeship
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SFI20119
Duration
6 months - 24 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online, Traineeship
Get ready for a career working at fish farms, hatcheries, and nurseries with the Certificate II in Aquaculture (SFI20119). This nationally recognised qualification will teach you how to work safely at Australian workplaces handling fish stocks and using aquatic equipment and machinery. The course covers: working effectively in the seafood industry, feeding and maintaining fish stocks, preparing and dispatching live stock for transport, communication.
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Career opportunities
Duration
6 months - 24 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online, Traineeship
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MAR10418
Duration
2 weeks - 3 weeks
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Traineeship
Get your grade 2 coxswain certificate at an advanced maritime training facility with simulated mission bridge and radio room. The Certificate I in Maritime Operations (Coxswain Grade 2 Near Coastal) (MAR10418) is a nationally recognised course that qualifies you to operate and command a vessel up to 12 metres long. During a 14 day intensive you’ll be gaining seamanship, survival and emergency response skills and graduate ready to apply for your Grade 2 Coxswain Near Coastal.
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Career opportunities
Duration
2 weeks - 3 weeks
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Traineeship
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Related career opportunities
Browse occupations related to Deckhand.
Common questions
How much does a Deckhand earn?
In Australia, a full time Deckhand generally earns $1,370 per week ($71,240 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a potentially higher salary than people who are new to the industry.
What are the job opportunities for a Deckhand?
This industry has seen a drop in employment numbers in recent years. There are currently 2,700 people employed as a Deckhand in Australia, compared to 3,100 five years ago. Deckhands may find work across regions of Australia where maritime activities are common.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights
How do I become a Deckhand?
If you’re interested in a career as a Deckhand, consider enrolling in a Certificate I in Maritime Operations (Coxswain Grade 2 Near Coastal). This course covers a range of topics including seamanship, survival and emergency response skills. A Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Coxswain Grade 1 Near Coastal) or a Certificate II in Fishing Operations may also be appropriate.
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More information
A Deckhand performs a range of tasks on a ship or maritime vessel. You might carry out routine cleaning and maintenance tasks or help with loading and unloading activities. Deckhands might ensure cargo is safely stowed and may help with mooring if needed. You might conduct patrols onboard to ensure operations are running effectively and deal with any safety issues.
Deckhands should be physically fit and able to complete various manual handling duties. You should be flexible and able to adapt your schedule when required. It’s important that you can follow instructions and work as part of a team. Communication is important in this role and it’s also crucial that you can follow correct safety procedures at all times.
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