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Master Jobs on Bulk Carriers

Master jobs on bulk carriers: Handysize to Capesize, IMSBC and Grain Code duties, hatch covers, port state control and what owners ask for. Apply online.

Vessel typeBulk Carrier
LocationWorldwide
ContractCommonly 4 to 6 months
JoiningUpcoming vacancies
CompanyCrewing agencies and shipowners we work with
SalarySet by the employer for each vacancy

Role overview

Open recruitment for crewing agencies and shipowners we work with. This page is not a single vacancy: apply to be considered for Master posts on bulk carriers when they open.

A master on a bulk carrier commands a ship that carries iron ore, coal, grain, bauxite, fertilisers and other dry cargo in holds, on tramp voyages that change with each charter. The master accepts the cargo for the ship: he or she checks the shipper’s cargo declaration under the IMSBC Code, the moisture content and transportable moisture limit certificates for cargoes that may liquefy (Group A), and the grain stability calculation under the International Grain Code. Bulk carriers also face frequent port state control inspections, often focused on hatch covers, holds and structure.

Certificates for Master posts on bulk carriers

  • Certificate of Competency as Master (STCW Reg. II/2), 3,000 GT or more for most bulk carriers
  • Ship Security Officer (STCW Reg. VI/5), medical care (VI/4), advanced fire fighting (VI/3)
  • Flag endorsement (STCW Reg. I/10) for the ship’s flag
  • Company training on the loading computer, heavy weather and ship handling of large ships is common

Watches, trade and contract

The master does not keep a watch on most bulk carriers but is on the bridge for pilotage, anchoring and river passages. In port the master agrees the loading or discharge plan with the terminal under the BLU Code, signs the ship/shore safety checklist and the bills of lading or letters of protest, and watches the stress and draft figures. Voyages run from a few days to several weeks, with long anchorage waits in some trades.

Contract length: commonly 4 to 6 months, set by the employer for each vacancy.

What employers ask for

  • Time in command on the same size class (Handysize, Supramax, Panamax, Capesize)
  • Experience with the main bulk cargoes in the ship’s trade, including Group A cargoes and grain
  • Clean port state control records and good RightShip inspection results (dry bulk vetting used by many charterers)
  • Experience with geared ships (cranes and grabs) where the ship is geared

How to apply

  1. Create a free seafarer account and confirm your email address.
  2. Fill in your CV with your sea service on bulk carriers, your CoC and the certificates listed above, and upload copies.
  3. Apply to this post and make your profile visible to verified employers, so crewing agencies and shipowners can find you when a vacancy opens.

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More jobs

Seafarers: see how Seafarers Recruitment works for seafarers. Employers and crewing agencies: post a vacancy or search crew.

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