Maritime Trainee - 2027

At VARD, we create innovative and sustainable solutions for the global maritime industry. Combining future-oriented engineering excellence, cutting-edge technology, and strong teamwork, we design and build some of the world’s most advanced vessels for a wide range of market segments, including offshore energy, naval, fisheries, icebreaking and research.

At the same time, we believe our people are our greatest strength. We foster an inclusive and supportive environment where talents can grow, ideas are valued, and individuals are empowered to make an impact.

We are currently looking for a Maritim Trainee to join our team. As a trainee at VARD, you will gain hands-on experience across our value chain and work alongside skilled colleagues in an international environment. Through the well-established 18-month Maritime Trainee Programme, delivered in collaboration with the Norwegian Shipowners’ Association, you will combine practical experience with five academic modules hosted in Norway, Copenhagen, Singapore, and London. The programme starts in August 2027 and offers a unique opportunity to develop your professional skills, expand your network, and build a strong foundation for a future career in the maritime industry. Learn more at Maritime Trainee Programme.

Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis, so we encourage you to apply as soon as possible. If you would like to learn more about VARD and the Maritime Trainee opportunity, feel free to contact us or meet us at NTNU Ålesund on 9 September 2026. You can also meet us at the Maritime Trainee recruitment event in Trondheim on 29 September 2026.

Ready to make an impact at VARD?

Duties and responsibilities

As part of the trainee programme, you will gain experience across three different business areas, providing valuable insight into the full VARD value chain and how our teams work together to deliver world-class vessels. Potential rotations include:

• Design & Engineering

• Planning & Project Execution

• Shipbuilding Production

• Innovation & Technology Development

Qualifications

We are looking for candidates who are in the final year of their master's degree or have recently completed an MSc within one of the following fields:

• Ship Design

• Marine Engineering

• Structural Engineering

• Mechanical Engineering

• Hydro dynamics

• Renewable energy

• Other similar professions for the Maritime Industry

• Fluent English-skills is a demand.

VARD works systematically for inclusion and diversity and encourage everyone to apply, even if your competence does not match 100% the above.

This employment may require a background check, or security clearance by the Norwegian National Security Authority.

Personal qualities

You are passionate about the maritime industry and eager to learn, grow, and gain experience across different parts of the business. We are looking for a curious and motivated individual who thrives in a dynamic environment and is keen to build a broad understanding of the maritime value chain.

We believe you:

• Have a strong interest in the maritime industry

• Are flexible, structured, and able to manage multiple tasks and priorities

• Thrive in a fast-paced environment with varied challenges and opportunities

• Possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills

• Communicate effectively and enjoy collaborating with people from different disciplines and cultures

• Identify yourself with the VARD values Craftmanship, Salesmanship and Fellowship.

Our commitment to you

• A permanent position in a VARD company combined with participation in the 18-month Maritime Trainee Programme starting in August 2027

• Rotations across different business areas, providing broad exposure to the maritime industry and the VARD value chain

• A dedicated mentor and strong support network to help you succeed and grow throughout the programme

• Unique international learning opportunities through academic modules in Norway, Copenhagen, Singapore, and London

• Salary according to the benchmark in the Maritime Trainee Program

• Hands-on experience, meaningful responsibilities, and the opportunity to contribute to innovative maritime projects from day one

• A collaborative and inclusive work environment with highly skilled colleagues across disciplines and cultures

• Competitive pension scheme and insurance package

• Subsidized lunch in the office canteen

• Subsidized membership at the gym

• Flexible work from home policy

• Free mobile phone usage and subsidized internet at home

• Central office location and free parking

• We understand the importance of continuous learning, and we strive to give you the chance to gain new skills and further develop your career

VARD recognizes the importance of having fun at work, this is why with Social by VARD you will have the chance to bond with colleagues through new experiences and shared interests. The social offer varies throughout the year and includes activities like 'walk and talk' during lunch hours, fjord cruises, cooking lessons, go karting, football practices and wine tasting, just to name a few.

With the right blend of fun, expertise and hard work, we are creating ships for the future. Join us!