AB/Crane Operator vacancies

 First Class Sailor / Crane Operator: advantages of the profession, requirements for applicants

Working on a ship is not only an opportunity to travel and earn decent money, but also a high responsibility. Therefore, before considering interesting vacancies in the fleet, it is worth remembering the seriousness of the work and responsibility. 1st class sailor/crane operator – a key specialist on whom the safety and efficiency of ship operations depends.

If you are planning to build a career in the maritime field, it is important to understand what tasks this specialist performs, what requirements shipowners have, and what prospects this profession opens up. Let's take a closer look at who he is 1st class sailor/crane operator, advantages of the profession and career prospects.

First class sailor/crane operator: functions and responsibilities

A 1st class sailor/crane operator is an experienced member of the deck crew who performs complex ship operations, stands watch, participates in the operation of the ship, and also performs other tasks. 

Main responsibilities:

1. Carrying out running and berthing watch – steering the ship at the command of the captain;

2. Mooring and rigging work - work with ropes, cables, anchor mechanisms;

3. Maintenance of life-saving equipment - inspection and preparation of lifeboats and rafts;

4. Cargo operations – control of loading and unloading, interaction with crane operators;

5. Maintaining the vessel in working condition - painting, repairing deck structures.

6. Working with ship cranes – lifting, moving and stowing cargo;

7. Control of cargo distribution - ensuring the correct center of gravity of the vessel;

8. Maintaining equipment in good condition - checking and minor repairs of cranes;

9. Compliance with safety regulations – prevention of emergency situations.

1st class sailor/crane operator reports to the boatswain and chief mate. This position is an intermediate step before obtaining a navigator diploma.

What requirements do shipowners place on applicants?

The most common requirements: 

• 1st class sailor diploma;

• 12 months of work experience as a 2nd class seaman;

• skills in operating a vessel, working with rigging and rescue equipment;

• physical endurance and stress resistance;

• basic English (for working on foreign ships);

• crane operator certificate;

• Experience working on port or ship cranes;

• knowledge of lifting mechanisms and rules of their operation;

• high concentration, responsibility;

• compliance with safety standards when working with cargo.

It may seem that getting a job as a 1st class sailor/crane operator is extremely difficult and not worth it, but this is a wrong opinion. There are a huge number of benefits that working at sea will open up for you:

1. High salary level - average income is higher than in land-based professions of a similar level.

2. Career growth - a 1st class sailor can become a navigator, a crane operator can become a senior cargo transportation specialist.

3. Demand in the market - the maritime industry needs qualified specialists.

4. Opportunity to travel – work on international flights.

5. Guaranteed social protection – health insurance, compensation and fixed-term contracts.

The best way to find a job is to contact the Marine MAN crewing agency. Here even the most demanding job seekers will be able to find their dream job. Moreover, the site has special filters that can independently filter out only those vacancies that meet your needs and requirements.