At NORDEN, we believe in empowering maritime professionals at various stages of their careers by creating opportunities for learning and connection.
This is your opportunity to start your professional career in the maritime space as a Port Captain Trainee in our Abidjan office and bring your knowledge into practice.
The traineeship is a 12-month programme with the intention of leading to a permanent position at NORDEN. Through this structured Trainee programme, we will make sure you are supported to grow and learn throughout every step of the way.
What is in it for you
You will gain practical experience, working both at the port and in our office in Abidjan. The traineeship will involve rotating between the two, based on business needs.
As a result, you should expect some travel days when moving between these locations.
You will be part of a professional and collaborative community while gaining a unique network of colleagues across the globe who will support you in your development.
The task that awaits you
Below, you will find an overview of the tasks and learning opportunities you can expect to explore over the 12 months.
Port-based tasks:
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Visit ports in West Africa, where NORDEN vessels call, to engage with key stakeholders.
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Conduct business intelligence, attend surveys, supervise operations and assist with cleaning under supervision.
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Attend onboard vessels in port and sail for short periods.
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Support and learn key onboard routines.
Office-based tasks:
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Conduct stability calculations.
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Assist in making stowage plans for incoming vessels.
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Learn relevant regulations for port calls.
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Help with office documentation.
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Coordinate with internal stakeholders related to port calls.
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Learn the basics of Chartering.
What you bring
To be considered for the traineeship, we are looking for you who hold:
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A maritime education background. It could be that you hold a Deck or Engine Officer diploma.
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Proficient in Microsoft Office.
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Good communication skills in both French and English.
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Understanding of port logistics, cargo operations and basic maritime regulations.
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Willingness to work at irregular hours from time to time during vessel calls.
Moreover, we are looking for a candidate who shows curiosity, a willingness to acquire new skills and a keen eye for detail, with a basic grasp of commercial concepts.
An approachable nature and problem-solving skills are significant, as you will need to interact with a broad array of stakeholders in the port. A motivation to grow with NORDEN is also essential.
The process
The recruitment process consists of two interviews, supplemented by a personality and cognitive assessment, which you will have to complete before the interview.
We expect you to join at the beginning of November 2025.
NORDEN values diversity in thought, educational background and professional knowledge and therefore encourages all qualified candidates to apply for the position. We look forward to receiving your CV, cover letter and transcripts no later than 15 October 2025.
We will do our best to get back to you at least within five working days after the application deadline, 15 October 2025.
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Our company
NORDEN is a global provider of ocean-based freight services for bulk and project cargo of all sizes. We integrate freight solutions with port logistics, helping our customers to optimise and decarbonise supply chains. We provide tailored solutions based on flexibility, reliability and intelligence.
Our agile business model ensures stability by continuously adapting our fleet to market developments and customer needs.
Founded in 1871, NORDEN is one of Denmark’s oldest internationally operating shipping companies. Incorporated in Denmark, we are listed on Nasdaq Copenhagen as a part of the OMX Nordic Large Cap index.
With 19 offices across 6 continents,NORDEN is a truly integrated part of global trade.