Able Seaman
An Able Seaman performs navigational duties on maritime vessels, participates in the watchkeeping team, handles deck operations, and ensures the safety of the ship and crew.
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Sample Job Descriptions for Able Seaman
Below are the some sample job descriptions for the different experience levels, where you can find the summary of the role, required skills, qualifications, and responsibilities.
Junior (0-2 years of experience)
Summary of the Role
Seeking a diligent and hardworking individual to fill the position of Able Seaman on our maritime team. The selected candidate will assist in deck operations and maintenance while ensuring compliance with safety procedures at sea.
Required Skills
- Knowledge of deck operations and nautical terms.
- Basic navigation and seamanship skills.
- Good communication and teamwork skills.
- Physical strength and stamina.
Qualifications
- Valid Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with an Able Seaman endorsement.
- Basic Safety Training certification or willingness to obtain.
- Pass a drug test and medical examination.
- Be able to lift heavy objects and perform physically demanding tasks under challenging conditions.
Responsibilities
- Assist with vessel operations, including steering, docking, and anchoring.
- Perform routine maintenance and cleaning of the vessel's deck and superstructure.
- Handle lines and rigging to launch or recover equipment.
- Stand watch on deck, reporting any abnormalities or issues.
- Participate in emergency drills and be prepared for situations such as man-overboard or fire.
- Cooperate with the deck crew and follow the orders of the deck officers.
Intermediate (2-5 years of experience)
Summary of the Role
The Able Seaman performs a variety of tasks related to deck operations and maintenance aboard vessels. They act as a key member of the ship's crew, ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the vessel.
Required Skills
- Proficiency in seamanship and deck operations.
- Knowledge of maritime safety procedures and regulations.
- Good communication and teamwork abilities.
- Physical fitness and stamina.
- Ability to operate and maintain deck machinery and equipment.
Qualifications
- Valid Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with an endorsement as Able Seaman.
- Compliance with the Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW).
- Passing a physical exam and drug screening.
- A minimum of 2 years of experience in deck operations on board a vessel.
- Ability to work long hours and in varied weather conditions.
Responsibilities
- Handle deck operations such as mooring and unmooring, anchoring, and cargo handling.
- Perform maintenance duties including painting, cleaning, and minor repairs of the vessel.
- Stand watch as helmsman, lookout, or perform security-related watches, as required by the ship's master.
- Assist with navigation tasks under the direction of the officer of the watch.
- Participate in emergency drills and respond to emergency situations according to safety procedures.
- Operate deck machinery, such as winches and cranes, for cargo handling and mooring operations.
- Contribute to the observance of maritime regulations and environmental policies.
Senior (5+ years of experience)
Summary of the Role
We are seeking a seasoned Able Seaman with a minimum of 5 years of experience for our maritime operations. The ideal candidate will demonstrate proficiency in various deck duties, contribute to the safe operation of our vessels, and have a strong commitment to safety and environmental regulations.
Required Skills
- Exceptional seamanship skills and knowledge of deck operations.
- Physical fitness and stamina for manual labor and working in challenging conditions.
- Ability to work effectively as part of a team and communicate efficiently with other crew members.
- Solid understanding of emergency response procedures and safety protocols.
- Working knowledge of maritime laws and international regulations.
Qualifications
- Valid Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with an endorsement as Able Seaman.
- Minimum of 5 years working experience on board ships, preferably in the deck department.
- Proficiency in survival craft and rescue boats operations.
- In-depth knowledge of navigational watches and the ability to contribute to the safe maneuvering of the ship.
- Current Basic Safety Training and Vessel Personnel with Designated Security Duties (VPDSD) certifications.
- Strong swimming ability and comfortable working in various weather conditions.
Responsibilities
- Perform all necessary deck operations, ensuring the safe operation of the vessel at all times.
- Take charge of deck maintenance, including painting, cleaning, and basic repairs.
- Assist with mooring and unmooring activities, cargo handling, anchoring, and watchkeeping.
- Contribute to navigation and piloting activities under the supervision of the officer on watch.
- Operate deck machinery and equipment, including winches and cranes for cargo operations.
- Participate in safety drills and training, maintaining readiness for emergency situations.
- Compliance with maritime safety and environmental regulations.
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