Marine and Maritime Careers for Young People
Jobs, Skills & Pathways in Essex, Hertfordshire & Suffolk
Exploring careers on the water in the marine and maritime industry
The marine and maritime industry covers everything from shipping and ports to marine engineering and ocean conservation. If you love the sea, enjoy travel, or want to work with cutting-edge technology, this sector offers exciting careers for young people who aren’t afraid to get their feet wet.
What kind of people thrive in the freelance industry?
Marine and maritime careers are perfect for adventurous, resilient, and safety-conscious individuals who are drawn to life on or near the water. People who thrive here are practical, team-oriented, and enjoy tackling challenges. Whether navigating ships, maintaining equipment, or protecting marine environments. If you’re adaptable, detail-focused, and passionate about the sea or sustainable transport, your strengths will be valued. The sector welcomes those who are curious, collaborative, and ready for unique opportunities on land and at sea.
Adventurous Explorers
Enjoy travel, the outdoors, and working on or near the water.
Technical Thinkers
Interested in navigation, mechanics, or marine engineering.
Team Players
Ships and ports rely on everyone working together.
Environmental Stewards
Care about protecting oceans and marine life.
Key insights you should know if you’re interested in the marine and maritime industry
If you’re a young person considering a marine and maritime career, here are 3 key things to know…
Growth potential
The sector is evolving with green shipping, offshore wind, and marine technology. There’s demand for deckhands, engineers, logistics coordinators, and marine scientists.
Pathways in Essex, Hertfordshire, and Suffolk
With major ports and a coastline, there are jobs in shipping, logistics, marine engineering, and conservation.
Average earning potential
Entry-level marine and maritime roles start at £20,000–£25,000, with experienced officers, engineers, and managers earning £30,000–£60,000+.
How to start your marine and maritime career
Not sure on your fit? Take our strengths-first matching quiz to discover marine and maritime roles that fit you, or browse our job board for entry-level jobs in Essex, Hertfordshire, and Suffolk. Apprenticeships and cadet schemes are common.
Explore even more about the marine and maritime industry
Curious to learn more about what a future out at sea could look like? We’ve pulled together extra resources, insights, and practical guides to help you dive deeper. Whether you want to explore career paths, discover the latest trends, or get tips for interviews and skills-building, our dedicated pages are here to support you every step of the way.
Let’s grow together
If you want a career that’s adventurous, vital, and keeps the world connected, marine and maritime could be your perfect fit. Whether you’re passionate about the sea, technology, or global trade, there’s a place for you to thrive. Ready to set sail on your future? Explore your potential in marine and maritime today!
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
New Here? You’re Not Alone.
Got a question? We’ve got you. Here are some quick answers to what people ask us most. If you can’t find what you need, just reach out. We’re here to help!
What jobs are available for young people in marine and maritime?
Deckhand, marine engineer, logistics coordinator, port worker, marine scientist, and more.
Do I need a degree to work in marine and maritime?
Not always, many roles are open to school leavers and offer training.
What skills help you succeed in marine and maritime careers?
Teamwork, technical skills, adaptability, and a love for the sea.
Are there entry-level marine jobs in Essex, Hertfordshire, or Suffolk?
Yes, ports, shipping companies, and conservation groups regularly hire young people.