Vacancies for Able Seaman (AB)

AB Seaman (also known as Able Seaman or Able Bodied Seaman) is an experienced deck rating responsible for deck maintenance, mooring operations, cargo gear handling, and watchkeeping on merchant and offshore vessels. On most ships, AB Seaman jobs cover the day-to-day work that keeps the deck department running smoothly — from routine maintenance to support during arrival, departure, anchoring, and safety operations.

AB Seaman Duties and Responsibilities

To qualify as an AB Seaman, a rating typically needs STCW II/5 certification and documented sea service time as an Ordinary Seaman (OS). Main duties include:

• cleaning, painting, chipping, washing down and general deck maintenance;
• handling mooring lines and working with winches, cranes and other deck equipment;
• assisting during cargo operations and securing cargo gear when required;
• steering the vessel and standing watch if allowed by certificates and company rules;
• taking part in safety rounds, gangway watch, anchor watch and maintenance of life-saving equipment under the supervision of the Boatswain.

AB Seaman Salary Expectations

AB Seaman (Able Bodied Seaman) salary depends mainly on vessel type, contract terms, trading area and the company itself. Today, many AB Seaman vacancies on merchant vessels fall roughly into the USD 1,500 – 2,200 range, while simpler jobs on general cargo or coaster vessels can be lower, and better-paid positions on tankers (especially LPG carriers), RO-RO, bunkering or specialized offshore units can go higher. For a broader picture, check our AB Seaman salary statistics.

In practice, bulk carriers, tankers and RO-RO vessels often offer more competitive rates than older general cargo ships, especially when the job includes heavier deck work, tighter schedules or more responsibility during cargo operations. Offshore jobs can also pay better, but they are usually less predictable and more dependent on vessel type, project, rotation and previous experience. That is why many seafarers compare not only the wage, but also contract length, joining area, workload and the reputation of the crewing company before applying.

How to Find the Best AB Seaman Vacancies

If you are looking for your next contract, browse the latest AB Seaman jobs, compare vessel types, and pay attention to jobs on bulk carriers, RO-RO vessels and offshore fleet pages. A good AB vacancy is not always the one with the highest number in the salary field — it is the one with clear terms, a reliable employer and a contract that fits your experience.