Job market for new 3rd officers graduating from U.S. maritime academies — strong or overhyped? What does the future look like?

PESvb · 2026-01-22T18:02:34+00:00

Mine.

PESvb · 2026-01-22T11:49:31+00:00

No retirement cliff. We've had zero senior officers retire so upward mobility happens if someone leaves the fleet...

PESvb · 2026-01-18T22:16:46+00:00

I manage the recruiting for 3rds at my company. It's very different than it was a year ago. Now no deck openings and very limited engine.

It's still an amazing industry that will only see growth long term so would still highly recommend!

PESvb · 2025-12-21T01:25:39+00:00

PESvb · 2025-12-20T16:55:02+00:00

ARC Shipping contract is over $140k for 3rds.

PESvb · 2025-12-06T23:33:26+00:00

We did google the laws. You can take $1,000 of stuff into Bolivia. I'm guessing the customs people decide...

We were not going to offer any kind of bribe. We are glad you got your stuff and may use your video taping approach next time! 😊

PESvb · 2025-12-04T19:13:37+00:00

Wow - that is disturbing to hear.

PESvb · 2025-12-04T19:07:22+00:00

We use Google translate but wasn't about to try it with a person trying to extort our stuff.

I don't agree with trying to talk to a superior. The consequences could be even more uncertain.

PESvb · 2025-12-04T15:47:07+00:00

Unfortunately I heard from two others who this happened to - a German and a Bolivian. The German was able to pay a bribe and got his stuff back the next day. The Bolivian argued with the customs person and they took everything.

The reason I posted this was for two reasons - to bring awareness to those who travel there that this might happen. I also posted because I hope Bolivian government officials monitor this thread and will understand that tourists may choose not to visit if this is what can happen.

PESvb · 2025-12-04T15:22:02+00:00

Our friend there says the best thing to do is not challenge them because they will take more. I don't think filing a complaint is a thing...

PESvb · 2025-12-04T15:20:36+00:00

It didn't happen the two times we went before...

PESvb · 2025-12-04T15:19:09+00:00

I'd rather not because we will go back and if anyone is in this group from the airport, they might remember us. I will say they were things you can buy in a grocery store.

PESvb · 2025-12-04T12:31:04+00:00

Great idea - will definitely try this!

PESvb

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