General Purpose Hand

A General Purpose Hand attends to a range of duties on a ship, boat or other marine vessel. You might assist passengers, load and unload cargo or carry out other tasks when required. General Purpose Hands might carry out cleaning tasks, perform routine maintenance or help with mooring activities. You might also perform safety checks and report any issues.

General Purpose Hands must be able to follow instructions and work to correct procedures at all times. It’s important you can work as part of a team and communicate clearly with passengers and colleagues. General Purpose Hands should have a high level of physical fitness and be able to perform a range of heavy lifting duties.

Future demand Medium
Average yearly income $57,200
Skill level Beginner

How do I become a general purpose hand?

All skill levels Beginner Experienced
MAR10220

Certificate I in Maritime Operations (General Purpose Hand Near Coastal)

Blended, On Campus
2 - 7 days
$0 - $3,140
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
General Purpose Hand Deckhand
MAR20321

Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Coxswain Grade 1 Near Coastal)

Blended, On Campus, Traineeship
3 - 6 weeks
$0 - $6,970
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
General Purpose Hand Coxswain Deckhand
MAR10418

Certificate I in Maritime Operations (Coxswain Grade 2 Near Coastal)

Blended, On Campus
2 - 3 weeks
$0 - $1,377
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
General Purpose Hand Coxswain Deckhand
MAR20421

Certificate II in Maritime Operations (Marine Engine Driver Grade 3 Near Coastal)

Blended, On Campus, Traineeship
3 - 4 weeks
$0 - $6,350
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
  • There are no mandated entry requirements.
Additional requirements may apply.
*Showing course fees for all providers. Some providers may not be available in your area.

Related occupations

Common questions

Further reading

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