Shipping Trainee at SDK

Move the world – together.
Set course for your future with SDK.

As a shipping trainee at SDK, you become part of a global industry in constant motion. Here, work is about more than daily tasks – it is about connecting people, markets, and societies, and helping keep the world moving. At the same time, you are given the opportunity to take responsibility, grow through hands-on experience, and shape the direction of your own career.

At SDK, you learn by doing. You will work with varied and meaningful tasks where your contribution has real impact across the value chain. We believe that development comes from responsibility, trust, and collaboration across cultures and disciplines. From day one, you are a valued part of the bigger picture.

Community and teamwork are central to life at SDK. As a trainee, you will join a strong student and trainee network across the organisation. Throughout your programme, you will be invited to both professional and social events, where you can share experiences, build relationships, and create connections that extend far beyond your daily work.

On this page, you will find practical information about the shipping trainee programme at SDK. If you cannot find what you are looking for, you are always welcome to contact our HR department at hr@sdkfreja.com or trainee coordinator Katrine Striboll-Bjærge at kasb@sdkfreja.com.

How can we help you?

Vacant positions Contact us

What do we expect from you?

There are many paths to becoming a shipping trainee and we particularly value the following qualities:

A goal-oriented approach to tasks, where you can maintain focus and drive projects forward
The ability to make many decisions in a busy workday
A natural business sense
Engagement in your work, where you show enthusiasm and dedication to your tasks
Being a team player who values collaboration and achieving common goals
Have completed or expect to complete HHX or EUX Business, alternatively STX, HTX, or HF in combination with EUD-S (office direction).

These are the departments you can work in as a trainee

Hub/Passage

Agency

Cruise

What is the best part about being a shipping trainee at SDK?

Julia, Johan, and Anders share their SDK trainee stories.

A supportive and social community

"At SDK, they value a strong sense of community and good relationships between employees and trainees. As a trainee, you join a dedicated team and are assigned both a mentor and a trainee coordinator to support you throughout your journey. You’ll also be part of our trainee network, meeting regularly for professional input and social events. There are plenty of fun activities too, like the summer party and sports days. What I appreciate most is the relaxed atmosphere where the tone is informal, and there’s always room for a chat or a laugh."

Julia Rømer Christensen, Shipping trainee in Esbjerg

The best of both worlds

"One of the great things about being a shipping trainee is the mix of classroom learning and real-world experience. You gain a solid theoretical foundation at school, then return to the workplace to put that knowledge into practice through engaging tasks. At SDK, many trainees are offered a full-time position after finishing the program - a big advantage, as it removes the stress of job hunting."

Johan Skjødt Petersen, Shipping trainee in Aalborg

Responsibility from day one

"What I’ve appreciated most during my training at SDK is the strong support from my team. From day one, I was trusted with responsibilities that helped me grow professionally and personally, always at a pace that suited me. Regular check-ins with my mentor ensured that the program is adapted to my skills and needs, making the experience feel truly personalized from start."

Anders Birch Ahrnkiel, Shipping trainee in Fredericia

Did you know that...

approx. 85% of all our trainees are offered permanent employment?

you get paid during your education when you choose to be trainee?

several times a year there are different social events?

SDK has locations and offices all across Denmark?

The Timeline

Get an inside look at being a shipping trainee at SDK

Do I get paid as a shipping trainee?

Yes, you receive trainee pay according to the collective agreement. We follow the current rates and also offer employee benefits such as a lunch scheme, social events, and a mentoring program.

How do I apply for a trainee position?

You can apply through our website.

How long does it take to become a shipping trainee?

The program lasts 2 years and combines hands-on experience at our company with school periods.

How much time do you spend in school as a trainee?

As a shipping trainee, you will attend school for a total of 7 weeks spread over the two years that the program lasts.

Is there a chance to be hired after the trainee program?

Absolutely! We offer strong career opportunities and many of our trainees are offered full-time positions after completing the program.

When do applications open for the next trainee intake?

We usually open for applications in January and hire on a rolling basis. Follow us on social media or check our website regularly to stay updated.

When does the trainee program start?

We recruit trainees once a year, typically with a start date in September.