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Ausbildung career

Inland Skipper / Inland Navigator Ausbildung in Germany

German name: Binnenschiffer/in

The Ausbildung (vocational training) as an Inland Skipper is a recognized profession in inland shipping (training area Industry and Trade). You will learn to navigate vessels on rivers and canals, transport cargo, and ensure safety on board. The exact training duration can vary, but is typically designed for several years.

What you do

  • Steering and navigating inland vessels on rivers and canals
  • Monitoring the technical systems and equipment on board
  • Carrying out loading operations and securing cargo
  • Maintaining and cleaning the ship, as well as performing minor repairs
  • Adhering to safety regulations and environmental standards
  • Communicating with lock keepers, bridge personnel, and other vessels
  • Mooring and unmooring the ship, and operating anchor and mooring winches

Requirements

  • At least a Hauptschulabschluss (secondary school certificate) or Realschulabschluss (intermediate school certificate)
  • Technical understanding and manual dexterity
  • Physical fitness and resilience (outdoor work, lifting)
  • Reliability, sense of responsibility, and teamwork skills
  • No motion sickness or dizziness on the water
  • Willingness to work shifts and be away from home for extended periods
  • Good eyesight and hearing

Career prospects

  1. 1Working as a qualified Inland Skipper on cargo or passenger ships
  2. 2Further training to become a Steuermann (helmsman) or Kapitän (captain) in inland shipping
  3. 3Specialization in specific types of vessels or cargo (e.g., dangerous goods)
  4. 4Roles in port logistics or with shipping companies ashore
  5. 5Opportunity for self-employment with your own vessel

Open positions

There are no open positions in this career right now. New positions come in several times a day.

Browse all positions

Frequently asked questions

Answers from our data on salary, length, German level and open positions.

How much do you earn in a Inland Skipper / Inland Navigator Ausbildung in Germany?

Usually 950 to 1,250 € a month. Pay rises with each year of training; the company sets the exact amount.

What German level do I need for a Inland Skipper / Inland Navigator Ausbildung?

Usually B2 German is enough. It is a guideline: some companies ask for more, some accept less.

What are the requirements for a Inland Skipper / Inland Navigator Ausbildung?

At least a Hauptschulabschluss (secondary school certificate) or Realschulabschluss (intermediate school certificate); Technical understanding and manual dexterity; Physical fitness and resilience (outdoor work, lifting); Reliability, sense of responsibility, and teamwork skills.

Where can I find open Inland Skipper / Inland Navigator Ausbildung positions?

There are no open positions right now. New positions come in several times a day.

How to apply as a Inland Skipper / Inland Navigator

Create your German CV, no account needed. Then apply to one of the open positions.

Career information is based on BERUFENET by the Federal Employment Agency.