Serco
Seafarer Deck Rating (Offshore) Apprentice
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Seafarer Deck Rating (Offshore) Apprentice
Able Seafarer Deck Apprentice (Offshore Operations)
Location: England – Offshore Operations Salary: £25,729.45 plus excellent benefits Qualification: Level 2 Certificate Able Seafarer (Deck) Location: North Kent College (training schedule confirmed) Duration: 24 Months (Full-Time Contract - 48 hours/week) Start Date: 14th September 2026
About the Role
Ready to kickstart a rewarding career at sea in Maritime Operations? This opportunity enables you to gain hands-on experience while earning a recognised qualification—MCA AB Able Seafarer Certificate. Working in offshore operations, you’ll support critical military training exercises, contributing to a safer, more secure, and sustainable future.
At the frontline of defence support, our offshore vessels provide essential services for military training activities both in the UK and internationally. Ideal for those who thrive in adventurous, disciplined team environments away from home, this apprenticeship blends real-world experience with structured training.
The Roles and Responsibilities
You’ll undertake the training and sea service required to achieve the Able Seafarer (Deck) certification, working as a member of the deck/navigation department on board ships and vessels. Key tasks include:
- Assisting with safety, navigation, and watchkeeping duties, including lookout on sea and in port.
- Supporting mooring, anchoring, and towing operations following procedures.
- Performing seamanship tasks, such as ropework, splicing, and general deck operations.
- Maintaining vessel cleanliness, equipment readiness, and operational condition of decks and machinery.
- Operating and maintaining deck machinery, including winches, windlasses, and lifting gear.
- Contributing to the safety and security of passengers, cargo, and the vessel.
- Participating in emergency drills (firefighting, sea survival) to develop competency.
- Assisting with routine inspections and maintenance to ensure operational readiness.
- Completing college-based learning phases alongside sea service hours.
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Throughout the programme, you’ll be supported by experienced mentors while working towards End Point Assessment (EPA) with IAMI, covering skills and behaviours required to ensure success.
Your Commitments & Tasks
As part of the role, you must:
✔ Develop and demonstrate competence under supervision on deck operations. ✔ Comply with UK Merchant Navy Code of Conduct and Serco’s ethical standards. ✔ Complete mandatory training (medical assessment, firefighting, sea survival). ✔ Achieve the required sea service hours within the 24-month programme. ✔ Foster a positive attitude while working collaboratively in a disciplined team. ✔ Adapt and thrive in flexible, away-from-home roles (sea operations and college phases).
All required training and travel are fully funded.
The Ideal Candidate
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To be considered, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Hold (or be eligible for) a valid UK Passport to achieve Security Clearance.
- Possess 4 GCSEs (or equivalent), including Maths and English at grade C/4 or above.
- Claim an ENG1 unrestricted medical certificate (required for professional seafarers).
Additionally, we seek:
- A proactive mindset, able to work flexibly between college and sea phases.
- Willingness to learn, adapt, and grow in a disciplined, safety-focused environment.
- A team player approach—embracing discipline and readiness to contribute in critical, fast-paced roles.
Why Join Serco?
At Serco, we deliver essential public services with a purpose. Together, we shape a better future—whether in Defence, Transport, Training, or marine operations.
Our Commitment to Inclusivity
- Disability Confident Leader – Championing equal opportunities for all.
- Gold Inclusive Employer Standard – Supporting flexible and hybrid working where possible.
- Guaranteed Interview Scheme – For those with disabilities, veterans, and those with prior convictions, select schemes apply.
- Recruitment Support – Contact recruitmentuk@serco.com if you need assistance with your application.
Let’s build a career that empowers you to make a real impact— together.
Apply Today (defenceentryjobs – Reference #defenceentryjobs)
Serco Defence, Supporting the Nation’s Military Training
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