MINISTRY INTERN JOB DESCRIPTION

ROLE SUMMARY

The Seafarers’ Ministry Interns [SMI] will provide hospitality and pastoral care to visiting seafarers from a Christian [or other faith] perspective. Likewise, the Ministry Intern is expected to introduce and promote seafarers’ issues and concerns within their faith community.   

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Create an atmosphere of welcome and hospitality to seafarers visiting the IMC.
  • Successfully complete the Ship Welfare Visitor Course online at shipwelfarevisitor.com]and other learning assignments.
  • Visit crews onboard ships in the Port of Oakland (and possibly other Bay Area ports).
  • Communicate and minister to seafarers of multiple nationalities and faith traditions either onboard and/or via virtual platforms to provide guidance and counseling.
  • Conduct religious services aboard a ship or at the International Maritime Center as requested.
  • Escort family members on ship to visit loved ones.
  • Provide help in an emergency or crisis. 
  • Attend North American Maritime Ministry Association [NAMMA] conference in Newark, New Jersey September 24-26, 2024. [REQUIRED]
  • Assist in the design and content development for the SMGG.org and imcbayarea.net websites, and The Seafaring Channel on YouTube.
  • Conduct outreach to faith organizations to educate and inspire congregations to support seafarers’ welfare and rights.  

QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

  • Ideal applicants have interest and gifts for pastoral care/chaplaincy and will also have some familiarity with maritime industry.  
  • Ideal candidates will be currently enrolled in an educational, skills or career development program; be actively involved in a faith-based or community serving organization; and will be considered an emerging leader in the organization or community.  
  • Will be detail-oriented with ability to work independently and manage time effectively.
  • Be able to handle multiple projects with a collaborative work style.
  • Have a valid CA drivers’ license with clean driving record.
  • Be eligible to obtain a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) card.  Before applying, please review the requirements here: https://www.tsa.gov/for-industry/twic. 

KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS

  • Be skilled in using Microsoft Office, and digital platforms, especially websites and social media. 
  • Be able to climb steep stairs to board ships.