Cadet Training Officer

Location: Rochester (Hybrid minimum two days per week in office upon completion of probation period) + (UK required travel)

Employment Type: Full-Time

SSTG is a not-for-profit maritime training organisation dedicated to supporting the development of Merchant Navy Officer Cadets across the UK. As a non-profit organisation, SSTG reinvests all surplus income directly back into training, cadet welfare, and service improvement initiatives — ensuring that our focus remains firmly on quality, integrity, and long-term industry sustainability rather than commercial gain.

We work in partnership with sponsoring shipping companies, colleges, regulators, and funding bodies to deliver structured, compliant, and high-quality officer training programmes. Our mission is to help safeguard the future of the UK maritime sector by supporting cadets throughout every stage of their professional journey.

At SSTG, we are committed to maintaining high standards, strong industry relationships, and a supportive environment that prioritises the wellbeing and success of every trainee.

We are seeking a proactive and highly organised Cadet Training Officer to oversee the training and welfare of Merchant Navy Officer Cadets. This is a varied and people-focused role involving coordination of training programmes, liaison with sponsoring companies and college staff, and close monitoring and support of cadets throughout their studies and sea phases.

The role includes regular UK travel for college visits, careers events, and open days, with approximately 20–30 nights per annum away from home.

• Organising and overseeing the structured training of Merchant Navy Officer Cadets.
• Acting as a key point of contact between cadets, sponsoring companies, and college staff.
• Monitoring trainee progress and ensuring training milestones are achieved.
• Maintaining comprehensive records of training undertaken, qualifications achieved, and documentation required by regulators, funding administrators, and SSTG procedures.
• Reviewing training record books and official documentation for accuracy and compliance.
• Providing constructive feedback and guidance to trainees throughout their programme.
• Handling trainee enquiries via telephone and email in a professional and supportive manner.
• Managing travel arrangements including booking flights and hotels.
• Filing, retrieving, and maintaining accurate documentation and records.
• Collaborating with administrators across different divisions to ensure smooth and efficient departmental operations.
• Visiting trainees at college to provide support and distribute key information.
• Representing SSTG at careers events and college open days to promote maritime training opportunities.

• Enthusiasm, professionalism, and a genuine willingness to learn.
• Friendly, approachable and caring individual.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Educated to a good GCSE standard (or equivalent), including English Language.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Outlook, Excel, etc.).
• Excellent attention to detail and strong administrative capability.
• Ability to multi-task, prioritise workload, and manage deadlines effectively.
• Ability to work independently and use initiative.
• Empathy and sound judgement when supporting students under training.
• Full UK driving licence (essential) + willing to drive.

• Be part of a respected non‑profit organisation making a meaningful impact in the UK maritime sector.
• Contribute directly to the development of future Merchant Navy Officers.
• Enjoy a varied role combining administration, mentorship, coordination, and travel.
• Work within a collaborative, mission‑driven team environment.
• Play a role in supporting an organisation that reinvests in training quality and cadet welfare.
• No two days are the same, with opportunities to grow as an individual.

If you are organised, motivated, and passionate about supporting trainees in their professional development, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your CV and a covering letter outlining your suitability for the role.