The shipboard systems manager is a member of the ships IT department. This individual is responsible for all computer systems aboard the ship. The shipboard systems manager must operate and maintain hardware, software, networks, Internet services, satellites, and more.
Because this is a highly skilled position, the shipboard manager must have an extensive background in computer technology. To become a shipboard manager, you must have a minimum bachelor’s degree in computer science, computer engineering, information science, management information systems, or mathematics. While a bachelor’s degree is the minimum requirement to become a shipboard systems manager, most cruise lines prefer to hire individuals with a master’s degree or higher. Some cruise lines are even more specific. These cruise lines, typically high end luxury cruise lines, prefer to hire individuals with an MBA with a concentration in information systems.
Shipboard systems managers must also have at least 2 years of experience in the field. Degree level and experience predict starting pay, but salary ranges from $6,000-$8,000 per month. In addition to receiving one of the highest salaries in the industry, shipboard systems manages also receive free room and board, free travel to and from the ship, health insurance, retirement benefits, and free meals.
All shipboard systems managers must speak fluent English and reside on the ship for at least four consecutive months.
When you are ready to begin searching for a position, consider signing up with a placement agency. Jobs of this caliber might be easier to obtain through an professional agency. Many of these agencies deal with individuals that are qualified to work in upper level positions such as engineering, management, medical, and director positions, to name just a few.
To sign up with a placement agency you should begin by identifying the top agencies in the industry. Next, you should submit your resume, references, and any certifications or designations you may have. The placement agency will schedule an interview to assess your background, skills, and needs and match them with the positions they have available or positions they will seek out. They will work to find the perfect match for you.
The following list includes top agencies in the field and contact information.
CTI Group Inc.
1845 Cordova Road Suite 215
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
Tel: 954.568.5900
Fax: 954.568.5888
Crewfinders International
http://crewfinders.com/
404 & 408 SE 17th Street
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
Phone: 954.522.2739
Toll Free: 800.438.2739
Fax: 954.522.2725
Delta Marine Personnel Services Ltd.
http://www.deltamarine.co.uk/
Office Suite 2, Lockside Marina
Navigation Road
Chelmsford
Essex. CM2 6HF
Tel: +44 1245 251 377
Fax: +44 1245 495583
Email: [email protected]
Dohle (IOM)
http://www.doehle-iom.com/index.asp
Fort Anne
Douglas
Isle of Man
IM 1 5PD
British Isles
Tel: +44 (0) 1624 649 649
Email: [email protected]
If you prefer to search for a position on your own, you can begin by choosing a cruise line you would like to work with. If you are unsure about which cruise line is a good fit your you, simply visit the Ships and Cruises Directory to locate the official cruise line website for just about any cruise in the world. Once you have located several websites, just visit the sites and poke around to see which one(s) stand out.
Next, visit the site’s jobs or employment page. If the cruise line lists job openings, be sure to follow the application procedure to the letter. If you fail to follow directions, your application may be discarded immediately. If the cruise line does not list job openings on its site, simply send a polished cover letter and resume to the cruise line’s Human Resources Department. The Human Resources Department is located at the cruise lines headquarters. This information is usually listed on the cruise line website. It is important to include the position you are interested in so that it can be directed to the appropriate department manager.