- Is there a recognised international qualification for ROV pilots?
- How do I find work as an ROV pilot?
- Will I get help in looking for work?
- Do I need a Pilot/Tech II ticket?
- Are there other requirements for working offshore?
- I have no knowledge of electronics – does this matter?
- What guarantees are there that I will pass the course?
- English is not my first language - Does this matter?
Is there a recognised international qualification for ROV pilots?
The International Marine Contractors Association (IMCA) has for some years been promoting a system of internationally recognised standards and competencies and many companies are adopting these standards. Our course qualifies students to these recognised standards. Even some experienced ROV technicians attend our courses to gain the IMCA Pilot Technician Grade II competence. Our courses also provide students with Scottish Vocational Qualifications (SVQs) recognised across the industry.
How do I find work as an ROV pilot?
The most difficult step in obtaining ROV work is getting your first job. You may find a “catch 22” dilemma where employers want experience – you cannot gain experience unless you have been working with ROVs. The hours of experience you will gain from flying and working on ROVs during our training will help you fast-track this initial period.
The ROV industry is relatively small. Many companies rely upon personnel that they know or have had recommended to them by others. For this reason, it is vital that when you do get your first “break”, you are able to prove your worth. ROV supervisors will speak to each other and keep details of people they know they can rely upon. Anyone not meeting the grade will be forgotten.
There are a number of employment agencies both in this country and abroad who hold ROV pilot’s CVs and some companies use this as a method of finding and filtering potential ROV personnel. Some of the larger companies have their own recruitment systems.
Will I get help in looking for work?
We provide our students with a detailed directory of the vast majority of ROV and diving companies throughout the world, including employment agencies. Throughout the course, guidance and information, CV writing and support services are provided to ensure all students have up-to-date information upon jobs, company locations and contact details for both prospective employers and employment agencies. We also have free internet access available to all students to assist in your search for work.
Do I need a Pilot/Tech II ticket?
Not everyone working in the ROV industry has this qualification. Many people working in the ROV industry have worked their way up to gain experience in many specialist fields of underwater technology. These people have learnt their skill and trade through years of experience. As these people grow older and leave the industry, their places need to be filled. New personnel cannot be expected to have this vast wealth of experience and knowledge immediately. IMCA therefore developed a series of competencies/levels by which ROV personnel may be accredited with certain knowledge. Our course is designed to give personnel a recognised level of training and knowledge that will assure employers that the person they are employing will have grounding in the various aspects of ROV safety, systems and operation.
Are there other requirements for working offshore?
Yes. For most parts of the world, you will also need a Basic Offshore Safety Induction & Emergency Training (BOSIET) certificate (OPITO approved). This incorporates Helicopter Underwater Escape Training (HUET), Emergency Breathing System training (EBS). Details of various training providers can be supplied on request. An offshore medical certificate is also needed (validity period is age-dependant) and for certain parts of the world, up-to-date inoculations.
I have no knowledge of electronics – does this matter?
When you are looking for work - YES. A small number of ROV companies state that they only consider new recruits if they are graduates of electronics/electronic engineering. This approach is not typical of most ROV companies but this will give you some indication of the importance attached to electronics when dealing with ROVs. However it would be wrong to say that you must have a background in electronics to succeed in ROVs. Our electronics course is designed to give students a good grounding in the basics of electronics and electrical safety, equipping them with the skills employers are looking for. The course itself is designed as a precursor to the ROV course and relates the theory and practice to ROV systems throughout.
What guarantees are there that I will pass the course?
Students will only pass the courses if they are prepared to work and study. Our attitude is that students are investing time and money to undertake our courses. We are not in the business of taking money and failing students. We are in the business of providing excellent training facilities for people to become competent. If any student is having difficulty with any part of the course, we will give additional evening and weekend classes as are necessary to ensure that any misunderstanding or difficulty is rectified. Class sizes are always small therefore additional time can be devoted to any student who is having difficulty. If on the other hand, a student does not undertake evening reading and homework study when required, they will have to answer to themselves if they do not pass. Fortunately, no students have had unsuccessful outcomes in the recent past and this situation is extremely rare. For the vast majority of students, the course proves to be a stimulating and rewarding.
English is not my first language - Does this matter?
No, in fact about 40% of our students are not from the UK and English is their second language. Courses are taught in English and if you have doubts as to your ability to understand the course, just telephone us and we will be happy to discuss any concerns.