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Deck Rating (EDH/AB)
Location
HM Naval Base Portsmouth, PO1 3LT
Salary
Competitive plus excellent benefits
Schedule
Per/FT/48 hours – Shift work to be discussed further at interview.
Ready to impact a better future?
As a Deck Rating (EDH/AB) in our Marine Services team, you’ll play a key role in the safe operation of vessels and the handling of cargo, supporting essential maritime activities within Portsmouth Naval Base. Your work will help ensure operational excellence, safety, and service delivery across a vital marine environment.
Every day brings a new challenge, from supporting vessel movements and cargo operations to maintaining equipment and contributing to environmental protection measures. Our work touches lives by helping deliver critical marine services, creating a positive impact through safe, reliable operations while providing opportunities for growth, development, and pride in the work you do.
What you’ll do as a Deck Rating (EDH/AB)
- Support berthing, slipping, anchoring and mooring operations for vessels.
- Carry out ship husbandry, cleaning, maintenance and lubrication activities as directed.
- Operate deck machinery, including cranes, and assist with cargo handling activities.
- Assist with the repair and maintenance of shipboard equipment and systems.
- Handle ropes, hoses, connectors and valves whilst ensuring safe operating procedures are followed.
- Support environmental protection measures and undertake other deck-related duties appropriate to your qualifications and experience.
Does this sound like you?
- Hold an Efficient Deck Hand (EDH) qualification or Able Seaman (AB) Certificate.
- Possess key maritime certifications including Basic Sea Survival, Fire Fighting, First Aid and a valid ENG1 Medical Certificate.
- Have experience within the marine industry, including ship husbandry and maintenance activities.
- Demonstrate strong health and safety awareness, manual handling knowledge and customer focus.
- Live locally or be within daily commuting distance of Portsmouth Naval Base.
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What we offer
- Competitive holiday package
- Up to 6% contributory pension scheme
- Over 1,100 internal courses available, funding for qualifications and apprenticeships (we currently offer over 60 different apprenticeships), mentoring opportunities, and a focus on internal progression.
- Employee Assistance Programme, Bupa Anytime HealthLine, wellbeing app, 30% off at Serco-managed leisure centres, and 24/7 access to a virtual GP service
- Discounts across around 1,000 retailers, from food and clothing to days out, entertainment and travel
- Paid volunteering day, tax-free charitable giving through Payroll Giving Scheme, donate your pennies from your monthly pay to the Serco People Fund Charity
- Our employee networks support connection by providing spaces for collaboration, learning, and belonging. They represent and empower all our colleagues including veterans, LGBTQIA+ employees, women, parents and carers, people with disabilities, and people from all cultural backgrounds.
Vetting and checks:
This role requires Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) clearance, which involves verifying your identity, employment history, nationality, and criminal record to meet government security standards. In addition, depending on the nature of the role, you may need to obtain formal Security Clearance (such as CTC or SC), which includes more detailed background checks on employment, criminal record, and financial history to ensure suitability for working in secure environments. Please note that UK residency requirements may apply for certain levels of clearance. You will also complete an Occupational Health Questionnaire so we can identify and provide any support you may need to undertake the role effectively.
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A little bit about us:
At Serco, everyone plays a vital part in delivering essential public services that make a real difference. As a global team of 50,000 people across Defence, Transport, Justice, Immigration, Healthcare, Leisure and Citizen Services, we’re united by a shared purpose: to improve the services that communities rely on. Guided by our values of Trust, Care, Innovation and Pride, our people make meaningful impact, every single day.
Our inclusive recruitment commitment:
We prioritise your skills and potential. As a Disability Confident Leader, the Top Great British Employer of Veterans 2026, and a Gold Inclusive Employer Standard holder, we champion equal opportunities for all. We offer flexible and hybrid working where possible and make reasonable adjustments throughout recruitment and employment.
- Guaranteed Interview Scheme: Applicants with disabilities, veterans and people with convictions, who meet the minimum job criteria, are guaranteed an interview. Simply opt into the relevant scheme on the application form.
- Ban The Box: We also support fair access for those with unspent criminal convictions through our ‘Ban the Box’ pledge (some roles may have security exemptions).
For support with your application, please contact recruitmentuk@serco.com.
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