AB Sailor

AB Sailor

Role summary:

An Able Seaman (AB) is a trained deck crew memberresponsible for performing a variety of deck operations to keep the vesselsafe, ready for sea, and orderly. The AB works under the supervision of theBosun and Chief Officer, assists with watchkeeping, cargo handling, mooring,and maintenance, and participates in safety and emergency procedures.

Key responsibilities:

• Stand watch as assigned and assist withlookouts, helms, and navigation support as directed.
• Mooring, unmooring, anchoring, line handling,fendering, and general deck rigging.
• Assist with cargo operations: loading,discharging, securing, lashings, stowage, and ensuring proper documentation.
• Maintain the vessel’s deck and associatedequipment: cleaning, painting, greasing, rust control, and inspection of deckmachinery (winches, capstans, cranes, ramps).
• Conduct routine safety tasks: participate insafety drills, inspect lifesaving equipment, fire extinguishers, PPE, andemergency systems; report faults.
• Assist with maintenance of deck surfaces, decksgear, gangs, and walkways; perform minor repairs as trained.
• Help with housekeeping and waste managementaboard, ensuring compliance with environmental procedures.
• Assist with cargo securing plans and ensurecargo is properly lashed and secured as per instructions.
• Follow orders from deck officers, communicateclearly, and maintain orderly logs and reports as required.
• Support in emergency situations (fire, flood,man overboard) and participate in rescue and survival procedures.
• Contribute to a safe working environment byadhering to safety rules and wearing proper PPE.

Required qualifications and experience:

• Valid STCW-compliant certifications applicableto Able Seaman/Deck ratings (examples: Basic Safety Training, Personal SurvivalTechniques, Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting, Elementary First Aid, PersonalProtective Equipment).
• Valid medical fitness certificate suitable forseafaring work.
• Legal right to work and hold a valid passport;appropriate visas if required.
• Prior sea service or deck exposure is desirablebut not always mandatory (0-3 years commonly preferred depending on flag stateand vessel type).
• Proficiency in English (spoken and written).Additional languages are a plus.

Recommended skills and competencies:

• Physical stamina and strength; ability to workin all weather conditions and heavy seas.
• Good dexterity, balance, and manual skills;aptitude for rope handling and deck operations.
• Teamwork, reliability, and the ability to followorders and procedures precisely.
• Situational awareness, problem-solving, andbasic mechanical aptitude.
• Basic math and record-keeping abilities;attention to detail for cargo and safety documentation.
• Safety-minded with a proactive attitude towardmaintaining a safe deck and vessel.