Able Bodied Seaman

Hornblower Corp; Norfolk (VA); On-site; USD 28,000 - 41,000; Full time

Job summary

Hornblower Corp seeks an Able Seaman to support safe vessel operations aboard Training Support Vessels. You will serve as helmsman and lookout, assist navigation watches, and perform deck maintenance as directed by the Chief Mate. The role contributes to safety, readiness, and efficient deck operations.

Qualified candidates will hold STCW credentials, TWIC, and be eligible for a US passport. Must be physically capable to work rotating shifts in varied weather and sea conditions.

Qualifications

• STCW-compliant deck credentials and valid safety trainings.
• TWIC credential and passport eligibility for US work.
• Ability to work rotating watches in varying conditions.

Responsibilities

• Helmsman duties and maintain course under Watch Officer instructions.
• Stand lookout watches, report hazards and navigational concerns promptly.
• Stand assigned navigational and safety watches as required.
• Deck maintenance: painting, cleaning, line handling, preservation.
• Assist with anchoring, mooring, small boat operations, seamanship tasks.
• Participate in drills, safety training, and emergency response duties.
• Maintain deck equipment and work areas in clean, safe condition.
• Support the Chief Mate and deck officers with safety-ready operations.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

STCW Deck Credentials

TWIC Card

US Passport Eligible

Physical Fitness

Watches & Deck Ops

Team Communication

Situational Awareness

Job description

Position Summary:

The Able Seaman (AB) supports safe vessel operations by providing seamanship, watchstanding, and deck maintenance services aboard Training Support Vessels. This role serves as helmsman and lookout, assists with navigation watches, and performs cleaning, painting, and maintenance tasks as directed by the Chief Mate. The Able Seaman contributes to the overall safety, readiness, and efficiency of deck operations.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Serve as helmsman and maintain proper course and steering control as directed by the Officer of the Watch.
• Stand lookout watches, reporting hazards, traffic, and navigational concerns promptly and accurately.
• Stand assigned navigational and safety watches in accordance with operational requirements.
• Perform routine deck maintenance including painting, cleaning, line handling, and preservation.
• Assist with anchoring, mooring, small boat operations, and general seamanship tasks.
• Participate in drills, safety training, and emergency response duties.
• Maintain deck equipment and work areas in clean and safe condition.
• Support the Chief Mate and deck officers with tasks required for safe vessel operations.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements & Qualifications:

• STCW-compliant credentials, including: Able Seafarer–Deck, Basic Training, Proficiency in Survival Craft (PSC or equivalent) and Vessel Personnel with Designated Security Duties (VPDSD).
• Valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).
• Must possess or be eligible for a United States Passport.
• Must meet physical and medical standards for shipboard service, including the ability to lift, climb, and perform manual labor in a marine environment.
• Ability to work rotating watches, including nights and weekends, in varying weather conditions.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work effectively as part of a deck crew.
• Demonstrated seamanship skills and the ability to follow instructions and maintain situational awareness.
• Must meet all company and contractual requirements.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States.

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