Officer of the Watch (Deck)

We are seeking a professional and motivated Officer of the Watch (Deck) to join our team on a temporary three-month contract.

Working as part of the vessel’s deck department, you will undertake navigational watchkeeping duties and support the Master and Chief Officer in the safe and efficient operation of the vessel. You will play an important role in maintaining high standards of navigation, safety, seamanship, while supporting the vessel’s freight operations.

This is an excellent opportunity for a qualified Deck Officer looking to gain or broaden experience within a busy freight operation serving the Isles of Scilly.

Key Responsibilities

As Officer of the Watch (Deck), you will be responsible for:

Navigation and Watchkeeping

• Undertaking navigational watchkeeping duties in accordance with STCW, COLREGs, the vessel’s Safety Management System and the Master’s Standing Orders.
• Maintaining a safe navigational watch at sea and supporting safe arrival, departure and manoeuvring operations.
• Monitoring the vessel’s position, traffic, weather and navigational conditions and taking appropriate action where required.
• Maintaining accurate bridge, navigational and statutory records.
• Supporting passage planning and preparation of navigational equipment and documentation.

Safety and Compliance

• Supporting the Master and Chief Officer in maintaining a strong and proactive safety culture onboard.
• Participating in emergency drills, training, risk assessments and toolbox talks.
• Undertaking duties allocated within the vessel’s muster list and emergency organisation.
• Assisting with the inspection and readiness of lifesaving, firefighting and other safety equipment.
• Complying with company policies, procedures and applicable maritime regulations

Deck and Vessel Operations

• Supporting the Chief Officer in the safe and efficient operation of the deck department.
• Supervising deck crew as required during vessel operations.
• Assisting with mooring, anchoring and other deck operations.
• Supporting safe passenger embarkation and disembarkation.
• Supporting the safe loading, carriage and discharge of freight and cargo, including the securing of cargo where required.
• Assisting with the safe carriage and handling of dangerous goods in accordance with company procedures and applicable regulations.
• Working collaboratively with engineering and deck to maintain safe and efficient vessel operations.
• Undertaking other duties reasonably assigned by the Master or Chief Officer.

Minimum Qualifications

To be considered for this role, you must possess:

• Officer of the Watch (Deck) Certificate of Competency – STCW II/1, appropriate for the vessel and area of operation.
• Valid ENG1 Medical Certificate.
• Up-to-date STCW mandatory training, including refresher training where required.
• Right to work in the UK.

Desirable Qualifications and Skills

• Previous navigational watchkeeping experience.
• Good knowledge of bridge procedures and safe navigational practices.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a small onboard team.
• Good IT skills to support modern onboard systems and reporting.
• A positive and proactive approach to safety and operational standards.

This is a three-month fixed-term position offering the opportunity to work within a unique operation providing essential freight services between the Isles of Scilly and the UK mainland.

We are looking for someone who can integrate quickly into an established onboard team and contribute positively from the outset. If you are a qualified Deck Officer with a strong focus on safety, professionalism and teamwork, we would welcome your application.