I experienced something like that with my char.  I'm not sure whether it's a bug, or if it's to do with how you play.  I created a "mercenary" char (and I know it gave me the merc stats/equip since I started out with the worn equip, minerals in the hold and good relations), but for some reason I was put down as a "figthter".  But after doing a series of mercenary missions for the Moloqs it changed to "mercenary"!  Wo-hoo!  I guess you should try doing pirately things like extorting and stuff.  
  
Also: How do you get those uber titles like "Magnate", "Hero" or "Dealer"? 
 
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You will get those titles depend on your reputation and ranks, once you gain enough exp (by fighting Dominators/Klissans and pirates) you can visit the military base to get promoted.