What Does a Surveyor Do in the Maritime Industry?

What Does a Surveyor Do in the Maritime Industry?

The maritime industry is a dynamic sector where safety, efficiency, and technical expertise play a crucial role. One of the key professions in this field is that of a Surveyor. A Surveyor conducts inspections and surveys of ships, cargo, and maritime equipment, requiring both theoretical knowledge and hands-on technical skills. This role offers plenty of variety and international travel opportunities. But what exactly does a Surveyor do? And how can you become one?

The Responsibilities of a Surveyor

A Surveyor carries out inspections and surveys on various maritime assets, including inland vessels, seagoing ships, offshore installations, and cargo. The specific tasks depend on the Surveyor’s area of specialization, but some common duties include:

Inspecting ships and equipment: Examining the overall condition of a vessel, including the hull, engine room, and navigation equipment.

Conducting cargo surveys: Checking cargo conditions, loading and unloading procedures, and verifying documentation.

Bunker surveys: Inspecting fuel supplies and monitoring fuel consumption.

On- and off-hire surveys: Assessing a vessel’s condition at the beginning and end of a charter period.

Certification and regulatory compliance: Ensuring ships meet international maritime regulations and standards, such as those set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

Damage investigations: Inspecting and reporting on vessel and cargo damage, often on behalf of insurers or shipping companies.

Technical reporting: Writing detailed reports in both English and Dutch, outlining findings and recommendations.

Work Environment and Travel Requirements

Surveyors often work on-site at various locations, both in the Netherlands and internationally. This means frequent travel and irregular working hours. One morning, you might be completing a report at the office, and by the afternoon, you could be on-site conducting an urgent damage inspection.

Communication skills are also critical. As a Surveyor interacts with clients and colleagues from different countries and cultures, fluency in English and the ability to clearly convey technical information are essential.

Types of Surveyors

There are several specializations within the Surveyor profession, including:

Marine Surveyor: Focuses on inspecting and certifying ships and equipment.

Cargo Surveyor: Monitors cargo conditions and loading processes, often working for shippers or insurers.

Bunker Surveyor: Conducts inspections related to fuel inventories and bunkering operations.

Classification Surveyor: Works for classification societies to ensure ships comply with international standards.

Port State Control Officer: Inspects foreign vessels on behalf of port authorities to ensure maritime safety.

How to Become a Surveyor

There is no single degree program for becoming a Surveyor, but most employers require at least an MBO-4 (technical vocational education) in a relevant field such as shipbuilding, process engineering, or mechanical engineering. For specialized roles, a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in hydrography, ocean technology, or maritime engineering may be required.

Key skills for a Surveyor include:

Strong technical and mathematical skills

Knowledge of shipbuilding, mechanical systems, and regulations

Fluency in English (and most often also the local language)

Independence and stress resistance

Proficiency in Microsoft Office and digital tools

Willingness to work irregular hours and travel

Some employers also require additional certifications, such as a VCA certificate (Safety, Health, and Environment).

Why Choose a Career as a Surveyor?

A career as a Surveyor offers the opportunity to work in a dynamic, international environment where no two days are the same. The combination of technical expertise, travel, independence, and problem-solving makes this a challenging and rewarding profession. Additionally, the maritime industry offers plenty of growth opportunities, both within the Surveyor role and beyond.

Are you looking for an exciting career in the maritime sector? Check out the latest Surveyor job opportunities  on our job board and take the next step in your career!