Can Women Work Offshore?
When talking about offshore work, many people still believe it is a profession exclusively for men. However, the truth is that women can indeed work offshore, and they are increasingly gaining space in the maritime sector, whether in merchant ships, offshore platforms, or tourism and cruise vessels. Despite the challenges, the presence of women has grown in recent years, driven by changes in legislation, inclusion initiatives, and a market that is becoming more open to diversity.
Can Women Work Offshore? What Does the Law Say?
Yes! There are no legal restrictions preventing women from working offshore. In Brazil, the Consolidation of Labor Laws (CLT) and the Maritime Law (Law No. 9,537/97) guarantee the right to work in the maritime sector without gender discrimination. In addition, collective labor agreements signed by unions and companies reinforce equal opportunities for both men and women in this industry.
In recent years, maritime and offshore companies have been adopting more inclusive policies, promoting the hiring of engineers, female seafarers, operations technicians, deck officers, and other professionals who were previously a minority in this field.
Growth of Female Presence in the Maritime Sector
Although the number of women working offshore is still small compared to men, it has been growing. According to the International Maritime Organization (IMO), only 2% of the global maritime workforce is composed of women. In Brazil, this number is increasing, especially in navigation and offshore exploration companies.
Today, women can hold roles such as:
✅ Deck Officers and Marine Engineers – Responsible for ship operations and maintenance.
✅ Offshore Engineers and Operations Technicians – Professionals working on oil and gas platforms.
✅ Cruise Ship Crew and Hospitality Teams – Working as officers, crew members, and hospitality staff.
✅ Researchers and Scientists Onboard – Engaging in scientific expeditions and oceanic research.
Moreover, there has been a rise in the number of women taking on leadership roles, such as ship captains and operational managers, challenging historical barriers in the profession.
What Are the Challenges of Working Offshore?
Although the industry is becoming more inclusive, there are still challenges to overcome. Some of the main obstacles faced by women entering this career include:
🔹 Adapting to Offshore Life – Working offshore requires long periods away from family and a demanding and structured routine.
🔹 Infrastructure and Accommodations – Some vessels still lack proper facilities to accommodate both men and women equally.
🔹 Workplace Culture and Resistance – Despite advancements, some teams remain predominantly male, and resistance to female presence can still occur.
🔹 Workplace Safety and Respect – It is essential for companies to ensure a safe environment, free from harassment and discrimination, by providing training and effective reporting channels.
To mitigate these challenges, many companies are investing in diversity and inclusion policies, offering training programs and ensuring adequate conditions for all crew members.
The future of women in the maritime industry is promising, and with the right support and policies, more women will continue to thrive in offshore careers.
Opportunities for Women in Offshore Work
If you are a woman interested in working offshore, there are many opportunities in the maritime and offshore industries. Many companies are actively seeking to increase female representation, and there are growing incentives for hiring women in various roles.
Here are some tips for those looking to enter this market:
✔ Pursue courses and certifications – The maritime sector requires specific training, such as programs offered by naval schools and technical courses in the field.
✔ Join inclusion programs – Some companies already have initiatives aimed at encouraging women to join the maritime industry.
✔ Research diversity-friendly companies – Companies that actively promote inclusion tend to offer better working conditions and career growth opportunities.
✔ Network with professional groups – Associations and networks dedicated to women in the maritime industry can be great resources for career development.
The Future of Women in the Maritime Industry
The maritime industry is undergoing a transformation, and women’s participation is becoming more common. Women can and do work offshore, and the trend is for this representation to continue growing in the coming years. With the expansion of inclusion policies and the breaking of cultural barriers, working at sea is becoming a real opportunity for women who want to pursue this challenging and rewarding career.
If you are considering a career in the maritime industry, know that there is a place for you! 🚢👩✈️
Current Statistics on Women in Offshore and Maritime Roles
The number of women working onboard ships and offshore platforms has been increasing, although they still make up a smaller share of the maritime workforce.
📊 Global Data: Recent reports indicate that women constitute approximately 2% of the maritime workforce worldwide.
📊 Brazilian Market: In Brazil, female participation is gradually growing. For example, at the Merchant Marine Officers Training School (EFOMM), women currently make up about 23% of the student body, a number that has been steadily increasing over the past three years.
In specific sectors, such as offshore oil and gas, female presence is also expanding.
🔹 Studies show that between 2002 and 2007, there was a 300% increase in the number of women working offshore in the Campos Basin.
🔹 Between 2007 and 2012, this number continued to rise by over 50%.
Although these figures demonstrate progress, it is important to note that women in leadership roles in the maritime sector remain underrepresented. Continuous efforts are needed to promote gender equality and expand opportunities for women in offshore and onboard positions.
🚢 The future is promising, and the maritime industry is ready for more female professionals!
