Determinants and stressors of seafarers’ job satisfaction: evidence from a global survey

Despite it is widely accepted that the job satisfaction of Seafarers is low, few studies have examined to develop a model of its determinants and stressors based on theorical grounding. This study develops a seafarer job determinants-stress-satisfaction model based on three theories: behaviour setting theory, attachment theory, and contingency theory. The dependant variable, seafarers’ job satisfaction was measured with three variables: (a) overall satisfaction, (b) payment satisfaction, and (c) burnout. This study hypothesises that (i) the ship work environment and (ii) seafarer belongingness have a direct impact on job satisfaction and (iii) workplace and belongingness stress moderates these effects. Using a large-scale survey of 1,612 seafarers, hierarchical regression analysis, the study uncover four dimensions of workplace environment (physical, connected, healthy, and functional), two seafarer attachment styles (secure, avoidant) and two more seafarer belongingness factors: company supportive culture and social fit. The job determinants-stress-satisfaction model explained 39% of the overall job satisfaction, 18.1% of payment satisfaction, and 16.3% of burnout. Findings allow maritime companies to improve seafarer job satisfaction by creating a supporting culture, prioritise social activities, and pay attention to shipboard environment (hygiene, connectivity, functionalities).