Able Seafarer – Deck (Menawethan)

We are seeking a skilled and motivated Able Seafarer – Deck to join the crew of Menawethan, the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group’s brand-new lifeline freight vessel. Operating from Penzance on a 2 weeks on / 2 weeks off rotation, the Able Seafarer – Deck will support safe deck operations, cargo handling, mooring, watchkeeping, vessel husbandry, and safety duties as part of a small and professional crew.

This is a rare opportunity to join Menawethan at the very start of the vessel’s operational life. With Menawethan and Scillonian IV both under construction with Piriou, the successful candidate will be part of an exciting phase of fleet modernisation, contributing to the introduction of new operational standards and setting the foundations for long-term safe and reliable operations.

The Isles of Scilly Steamship Group delivers essential lifeline passenger and freight services between the Isles of Scilly and the mainland. This role plays a key part in maintaining a dependable and efficient freight link for island communities.

Minimum Qualifications

• Navigational Watch Rating Certificate.
• Efficient Deck Hand (EDH).
• Proficiency in Survival Craft & Rescue Boats (PSCRB).
• Valid ENG1 medical certificate.
• Up-to-date STCW mandatory training, including refresher courses where applicable

Desirable Experience and Skills

• Experience working on freight or coastal vessels.
• Familiarity with lifting, lashing, and cargo-handling equipment.
• Forklift licence and deck-crane operating experience (or willingness to undertake training).
• Experience with freight operations, vessel introduction, or newbuild activities (advantageous).
• Good communication, situational awareness, and teamwork.
• A professional attitude and commitment to safety.

Job Summary

We are seeking a skilled and motivated Able Seafarer – Deck to join the crew of Menawethan, the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group’s brand-new lifeline freight vessel. Operating from Penzance on a 2 weeks on / 2 weeks off rotation, the Able Seafarer – Deck will support safe deck operations, cargo handling, mooring, watchkeeping, vessel husbandry, and safety duties as part of a small and professional crew.

This is a rare opportunity to join Menawethan at the very start of the vessel’s operational life. With Menawethan and Scillonian IV both under construction with Piriou, the successful candidate will be part of an exciting phase of fleet modernisation, contributing to the introduction of new operational standards and setting the foundations for long-term safe and reliable operations.

The Isles of Scilly Steamship Group delivers essential lifeline passenger and freight services between the Isles of Scilly and the mainland. This role plays a key part in maintaining a dependable and efficient freight link for island communities.

Duties and Responsibilities

General Responsibilities

• Executing orders from officers and serving onboard company vessels as required.
• Complying with all company policies and being familiar with the safety, security, and environmental requirements of the Safety Management System (SMS).
• Maintaining a respectful, professional approach with customers, contractors, visitors, and colleagues.
• Knowing the location of muster stations and understanding their role within the vessel’s emergency parties.
• Applying relevant safety, security, environmental, pollution-prevention, and welfare procedures.
• Act at all times in a manner that promotes and protects the interests, reputation, and values of the Company.
• Undertake any other reasonable duties appropriate to the role, as required by your line manager.

Deck Operations

• Conducting safe and efficient mooring and unmooring operations, including line handling and operation of deck equipment.
• Supporting the loading, discharge, lifting, and lashing of freight, including hazardous/dangerous cargo in accordance with company procedures and regulatory requirements.
• Assisting with cargo planning, stowage, and securing under the direction of the Chief Officer.
• Maintaining deck areas, cargo spaces, and vessel access routes in a clean, safe, and serviceable condition.

Watchkeeping & Navigation Support

• Undertaking lookout duties as part of bridge watchkeeping routines.
• Developing proficiency as a helmsman, steering the vessel under supervision in accordance with the Master’s standing orders.

Maintenance & Vessel Support

• Performing routine deck maintenance including splicing, ropework, painting, greasing, cleaning, and upkeep of deck machinery and equipment.
• Assisting the Chief Officer in maintaining lifesaving and firefighting appliances in a state of readiness.
• Supporting general housekeeping and vessel readiness across all operational areas.

Cargo & Equipment

• Operating the deck crane as required.
• Operating the forklift truck safely, including completion of daily checks, maintenance records, and hold-cleaning duties.
• Maintaining hold areas in a clean and compliant condition.

Training & Teamwork

• Assisting in the training and development of Ordinary Seafarers.
• Working collaboratively within a small, professional deck team on a newbuild freight vessel.
• Upholding high standards of teamwork and conduct when interacting with harbour personnel, contractors, and colleagues.

Catering

• Cooking and maintaining galley and provisions, including galley cleanliness, hygiene checks, and correct food-handling practices.

Passenger Handling & Customer Experience

• Assist with the safe movement of passengers and supernumeraries, following all instructions from the Master and Chief Officer and working in accordance with company procedures and statutory requirements.
• Provide polite, helpful, and professional support to all individuals onboard, maintaining a high standard of customer care and clear communication.
• Set up and maintain boarding arrangements as directed, ensuring access routes, gangways, signage, and safety equipment are correctly positioned and kept clear at all times.
• Support the delivery of safety information by ensuring passengers are guided appropriately and understand their muster and safety requirements.
• Help maintain a clean, tidy, and welcoming environment on deck and in passenger-accessible areas during any passenger operations.
• Represent the company positively through professional behaviour, safe working practices, and a customer-focused attitude at all times.

Joining Menawethan at the start of the vessel’s service life offers a rare chance to help establish the standards, routines, and working practices of a new lifeline freight operation. If you take pride in your seamanship, enjoy working as part of a close-knit team, and want to contribute to a vessel that will support island communities for years to come, we would welcome your application.