Plumber

Technical
Min 3 Months
As a part of the technical crew you will keep the lights on and keep the ship ticking. A chance to make a real difference while getting your hands dirty!

Driven to provide hope & healing.

Mercy Ships is an international charity that brings hope and healing to the world’s forgotten poor through state-of-the-art hospital ships. Since 1978, our volunteer crew—made up of medical professionals and skilled workers from over 60 nations—has delivered free surgeries and medical care to over 2.8 million people in Sub-Saharan Africa, transforming lives one patient and one port at a time. Join our global team of over 3,000 volunteers and help us change lives daily.

About this role

The Plumber assists in the operations and maintenance of all equipment and systems that come under the responsibility of the Hotel Service department within Engineering, including HVAC plants, vacuum and sewage systems, fresh water systems, and waste disposal systems. It’s hard to find a job on board that is more appreciated than our Plumbers!

Requirements

Each role with Mercy Ships calls for a unique blend of experience, skills, and qualifications. The info below outlines what’s needed to serve effectively in this position—to meet operational standards and to help you thrive as part of the team.

Commitment Min 3 Months

What You Will Contribute

Technical

  • Support the operation and maintenance of all Hotel Services, equipment, and systems, including but not limited to;
    • HVACR plants Vacuum and sewage systems
    • Domestic Freshwater systems
    • Waste disposal systems
  • Assume Duty Plumber responsibilities according to the roster
  • Perform watchkeeping duties as assigned in areas of HVAC and Hospital equipment
  • Understand the Company Safety Management System and the ship's Contingency Plan for emergency procedures


Mission
  • Support Share in the support and furtherance of Christian community through lifestyle and exhortation

What You Will Need

STCW Certifications
  • Certificate of Proficiency in accordance with STCW VI/1 Basic Training
  • Certificate of Proficiency in accordance with STCW V/2-1 Crowd Management
  • Certificate of Examination in accordance with STCW I/9
  • Medical Fitness and Minimum In-Service Eyesight


Mission and Community
  • Supportive of Mercy Ships mission and vision and committed to its core values.
  • Able to live in and contribute to community life, requiring stable and healthy interpersonal skills.


Administrative
  • Competent in Windows, Microsoft Office Programs, and general file/folder management tasks
  • Ability to communicate proficiently in English in both written and verbal forms.


Problem Solving

  • Ability to solve problems and resolve conflict.
  • Exhibit skill and flexibility in managing change and uncertainty


Education and Experience
  • Successful completion of Mercy Ships Onboarding Program will be required for service of 1 year or more.
  • Appropriate experience in any of the following areas will be considered;
    • Maintaining equipment as described in this job description in a commercial setting and/or through education
    • Experience on ships or Certificate of Competency (COC)/Certification in any of these areas
  • A recognized plumbing certificate or relevant experience

About the team

You’ll be part of the Technical Team, a skilled group of professionals who keep the ship running safely and efficiently, maintaining vital systems from engines to electrics so hospital operations can continue smoothly every day in port.

Apply Now

Full job description available upon request.

Proceed to Application

Frequently asked questions.

We are so excited that you are interested in learning more about serving with us. These are the most common questions we receive for this department.

SCAM ALERT: Please be aware of recruitment scams. Mercy Ships will never charge any fees as a part of the recruitment process. For more info click here.

What are the medical requirements to serve with Mercy Ships?

Click here for a list of medical requirements to serve, including required immunizations.

How long can I serve?
Looking for more information? View our general FAQs to learn about life on board, volunteering, and more.
General FAQs

The experience of a lifetime is calling.

More than 1,200 volunteers from over 60 nations serve with Mercy Ships each year.

At Mercy Ships, we are proud to be recognized around the world for the life-changing surgeries and training we deliver. We could not achieve this without our dedicated community of talented volunteers.

Imagine finishing your shift and stepping onto deck as the sun sets—knowing that today you’ve helped transform the lives of those who need it most. Apply now to start a journey that will reshape the lives of those you serve—and your own.

Captain Perez, Africa Mercy & Global Mercy
Rachel Lubitz, Project Assistant, Global Mercy
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Find Your Place On Board

Faith-Led Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion

Mercy Ships is a faith-based organization welcoming volunteers from diverse backgrounds and experiences who are committed to our mission and values. All qualified applicants will receive consideration.

Beware of Imposters: Confirm All Volunteer Communications

Volunteer opportunities and invitations to serve will always come directly from Mercy Ships’ official volunteer engagement teams. Never provide personal information to anyone without confirming their connection to Mercy Ships.

Apply Now

Full job description available upon request.

Proceed to Application
“I think you get lifelong friends in a different way than I’ve done back home. I like the variety of people, cultures, and views.”
Maria Ekstrand — Dining Room Team Leader
“The more I'm seeing peoples' lives being transformed, the more I realize this isn't me giving away two years, it's me gaining two years. For me, it's more like a gift.”
Eugene Ampadu (Videographer, Africa Mercy, Senegal.)