Bosun

Sea Harvest; Wes-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

Sea Harvest, a proudly South African integrated fishing and food processing company, seeks a suitably qualified Bosun to lead deck operations aboard our vessels. You will supervise the deck crew, manage fishing gear, and ensure SAMSA and safety standards are met on a day‑to‑day basis.

The Bosun role requires strong leadership, a good command of English, and the ability to work in a demanding seagoing environment while maintaining operational excellence and teamwork.

Qualifications

• Leadership and supervisory ability for deck crews.
• Strong safety culture, procedures and PPE compliance.
• Experience with navigational watchkeeping and vessel operations.

Responsibilities

• Lead, supervise, and coordinate all deck crew activities to ensure the safe and efficient execution of fishing and vessel operations.
• Oversee inspection, maintenance, repair, and storage of fishing gear, equipment and deck machinery.
• Perform bridge watchkeeping duties and maintain a vigilant lookout; report concerns to the Skipper.
• Oversee port operations, mooring arrangements, and deck-area safety and cleanliness.

Skills

Leadership

Supervisory

Safety awareness

Knots knowledge

Initiative

Fluent in English

Education

SAMSA Certificate of Competency: Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch

SAMSA Medical Certificate

STCW documentation

Grade 12 or equivalent

Job description

Sea Harvest is a proudly South African integrated fishing and food processing company, delivering quality seafood and food products to local and international markets. We are committed to sustainability, innovation and the development of our people.

An exciting opportunity exists for a suitably qualified and experienced Bosun to join our team.

ROLE OVERVIEW

The Bosun is responsible for leading deck operations, supervising the deck crew, overseeing fishing gear management, and ensuring compliance with all maritime safety and operational standards. This role is critical to supporting safe, efficient, and productive fishing operations while fostering a culture of teamwork and operational excellence onboard.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES

Deck Operations

• Lead, supervise, and coordinate all deck crew activities to ensure the safe and efficient execution of fishing and vessel operations.
• Allocate duties and monitor crew performance to ensure work is completed in accordance with operational requirements and safety standards.
• Monitor and maintain compliance with all safety procedures and PPE requirements.
• Ensure deck operations are conducted safely and professionally, in accordance with company policies and SAMSA regulations.

Fishing Gear Management

• Oversee the inspection, maintenance, repair, and storage of fishing gear, equipment, and deck machinery
• Monitor fishing gear inventory levels and ensure adequate stock is available to support uninterrupted operations.
• Ensure all gear is maintained in a seaworthy condition and is readily available for fishing operations.

Bridge Watchkeeping

• Perform bridge watchkeeping duties in accordance with company procedures and maritime regulations.
• Maintain a vigilant lookout and monitor vessel activities to support safe navigation and fishing operations.
• Promptly report navigation, operational, safety, or security concerns to the Skipper.
• Assist in ensuring effective communication between the bridge and deck teams during operations.

Port Operations and Vessel Maintenance

• Oversee fire, security and safety watches while in port.
• Monitor mooring arrangements and gangway safety.
• Operate deck equipment, cranes and machinery safely and efficiently as required.
• Ensure accommodation and deck areas are maintained to high standards of cleanliness, safety and operational readiness.

QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS

• Grade 12 or equivalent will be advantageous.
• SAMSA Certificate of Competency: Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch.
• Valid SAMSA Medical Certificate and STCW documentation.
• Minimum 2-4 years' experience sailing as Bosun on fishing vessels.
• Knowledge of knots, hitches, bends, whipping and splices.
• Fluent in the English language, both spoken and written.

KEY COMPETENCIES

• Proven leadership and supervisory capability.
• High level of accountability, integrity and reliability.
• Strong interpersonal and teamwork skills.
• Safety-conscious with a commitment to maintaining a safe working environment.
• Ability to work independently and take initiative.
• Adaptability and resilience in a demanding seagoing environment.
• Commitment to operational excellence and continuous improvement.