Able Seaman (AB) Jobs in the Merchant Navy
The able seaman is an experienced deck rating who steers the ship, keeps lookout and handles mooring and deck work.
What a Able Seaman (AB) does
The Able Seaman (AB) is an experienced deck rating who steers the vessel, keeps navigational lookout, handles mooring operations, and carries out deck maintenance and cargo-related work. The AB is a core member of the deck team, supporting the officers on watch.
Certificates and requirements
- STCW Basic Safety Training and Proficiency in Survival Craft
- Able Seafarer Deck / watchkeeping (rating forming part of a navigational watch)
- A valid medical certificate and the required sea time as an OS
- Tanker familiarisation for tanker assignments
Which ships hire Able Seaman (AB)s
Able Seamen are needed on every vessel type - tankers, bulk carriers, container ships, gas carriers and offshore vessels.
Live Able Seaman (AB) vacancies
Looking for your next Able Seaman (AB) contract?
Submit your CV to Shiplo once and get discovered by shipping companies and RPSL crewing teams worldwide. Free for seafarers, always.
Submit your CV →Why Shiplo
Shiplo is a global maritime hiring network built by a former Chief Engineer. Instead of chasing the same opening across dozens of WhatsApp groups, you submit your CV once and let verified shipping companies find you - ranked by how recently you confirmed you're available.
Submit your CV →