There are several paths to becoming a marine surveyor, which is a person who inspects watercraft for the purpose of appraisal and to ensure that they meet government standards. In most areas, this profession is not licensed or regulated, and anyone can start a surveying business with no prior experience or training. Having certifications from a professional organization such as the Society of Accredited Marine Surveyors (SAMS) will, however, improve your employability and attract clients. In order to begin working at SAMS, people must typically meet experience requirements and pass an exam.
Apprenticeship with a practicing marine surveyor is one option for becoming a marine surveyor. This will expose employees to a wide range of crafts and settings on the job. People who are apprenticed will gradually gain more responsibility and eventually start generating their own survey reports, learning about industry reporting standards, craft requirements, and how to work with insurance companies and government representatives. The apprentice can apply for professional certification after three to five years of work experience.
Attending a professional school is another option for someone interested in becoming a marine surveyor. People will receive a classroom education in marine surveying at school, and they will typically be encouraged to apprentice after school to gain work experience. Going to school first has the advantage of allowing you to skip the first stages of an apprenticeship. The school will also provide information on the most up-to-date technology and techniques in marine surveying.
Whether people just apprentice or go to school and then apprentice to become a marine surveyor, they must be able to document their experience and pass a knowledge exam in order to join a professional organization. They are listed alongside organization members and have access to trade publications, seminars, and other benefits once they join a professional organization. Some people prefer to work with accredited marine surveyors, so having a professional membership makes it easier to find work.
Others enter the field of boat inspection without any formal training or accreditation. Marine surveyors are people who have boating experience and are familiar with the regulations. Some of these people are extremely competent, but they may have a harder time finding work because employers are concerned that they won’t follow ethical guidelines or won’t know how to write reports in the industry’s preferred style and format.
A marine surveyor can choose to specialize in different types of work, such as inspecting cargo ships or handling small watercraft. People who specialize can find a wide range of job opportunities.