About this role
Able Seaman (AB)
Location: Port Harcourt, Rivers
Job Category: Deck
Position Overview
- The Able Seaman (AB) plays a vital hands-on role in the safe and efficient operation of the tugboat’s deck operations. Working under the direction of the Chief Officer, the AB is responsible for line handling, mooring/unmooring procedures, towing operations, maintenance of deck equipment, and watchkeeping duties. This position is essential to maintaining the vessel’s readiness, safety, and appearance.
- An ideal candidate should be physically fit, safety-conscious, and have direct experience working aboard tugboats or offshore support vessels—especially in high-intensity mooring or berthing environments.
Key Responsibilities
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Deck Operations
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Participate actively in mooring, unmooring, and towing operations, including handling lines, wires, and towing gear during berthing of large tankers or offshore structures.
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Operate and maintain deck machinery such as winches, capstans, fenders, and emergency towing devices.
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Assist in the deployment and recovery of tow lines, hawsers, and emergency towing gear under Chief Officer’s supervision.
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Maintain readiness of all deck safety equipment, including lifebuoys, rescue lines, and pilot ladders.
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Deck Maintenance
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Perform routine cleaning, chipping, painting, and greasing of the deck and superstructure to preserve vessel integrity.
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Ensure all deck fittings, railings, and safety barriers are in good condition and hazard-free.
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Monitor and report any signs of equipment failure or potential hazards immediately.
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Watchkeeping & Lookout Duties
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Maintain bridge watch as lookout during navigation and at anchor, especially in low visibility or congested areas.
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Monitor for approaching vessels, floating hazards, or weather changes and report to the Officer of the Watch (OOW).
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Participate in anchor watch, gangway duty, and security rounds as assigned.
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Safety & Emergency Response
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Participate in fire, abandon ship, man overboard, and emergency towing drills.
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Ensure familiarity with the vessel’s Safety Management System (SMS), muster stations, and emergency equipment.
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Use appropriate PPE and promote a culture of safety on deck at all times.
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Candidate Specification
Mandatory Certifications:
- STCW II/4 or II/5 (Able Seafarer Deck) Certificate of Competency.
- STCW Basic Safety Training:
- Personal Survival Techniques (PST)
- Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (FPFF)
- Elementary First Aid (EFA)
- Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities (PSSR)
- Seafarer’s Medical Certificate (MLC-compliant).
- Valid International Passport and Seaman’s Book.
Experience
- Minimum of 2 years’ experience as AB on tugboats, offshore support vessels, or coastal vessels.
- Familiarity with:
- Line handling during berthing/unberthing
- Towing operations in port or offshore
- Use of deck gear (winches, bollards, bitts, mooring equipment).
Knowledge & Skills:
- Good understanding of seamanship, line handling, knots, and splicing techniques.
- Knowledge of safety protocols for confined space entry, working aloft, and hazardous environments.
- Ability to follow instructions, perform under pressure, and work in confined deck spaces or harsh sea conditions.
Attributes & Competencies:
- Physically strong, agile, and fit for duty in an offshore environment.
- Team player with disciplined work ethic.
- High attention to detail and situational awareness.
- Strong safety awareness and willingness to learn.
What We Offer
- Competitive offshore wages and contract terms.
- Defined rotation schedule.
- Professional working environment with experienced crew and management.
- Career progression opportunities for competent and committed seafarers.
Application Closing Date
Not Specified.