At a Glance
- Tasks: Join the RFA as a Qualified Seamanship Specialist, tackling exciting sea operations daily.
- Company: Be part of the Royal Fleet Auxiliary, supporting the Royal Navy globally.
- Benefits: Earn £29,500+, enjoy 21 days of leave monthly, and access world-class training.
- Why this job: Experience unique challenges at sea while developing leadership and seamanship skills.
- Qualifications: Must be at least 17.5 years old with recent sea service and necessary certifications.
- Other info: Opportunities for global travel and personal development in a dynamic environment.
The predicted salary is between 29500 - 41300 £ per year.
Role details
What you’ll do
As a Qualified Seamanship Specialist in the Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA), you’ll be central to our Replenishment at Sea (RAS) operations. That means transferring fuel to the Royal Navy’s state-of-the-art warships, wherever they are in the world. It’s like no other merchant navy job. You’ll become the complete seaman as you tackle new and exciting challenges every day, from crewing your ship’s fast rescue craft, to being part of the flight deck team, to working with helicopters and their crew. You will also be carrying out bridge watchkeeping duties and upper deck maintenance tasks and driving cranes, or being part of the weapons teams. If you’re already qualified for life at sea, this is your opportunity to take your career to the next level.
Your role
- Use your advanced seamanship skills to play a central role in the transfer of food and supplies to Royal Navy warships, all over the world. That means getting hands-on with our most complex deck equipment, whatever the weather.
- Shape your role through personal development and training that’s paid for by us. You could crew your ship’s fast-rescue craft, or even be part of the flight deck team, working with helicopters and their crew.
- The role of the RFA is increasingly broad, as we support the Royal Navy in an operational capacity and provide a truly global presence. Whether you’re supporting counter-narcotics operations in the Caribbean, or anti-piracy in the Indian Ocean, you’ll be given all the training you need to defend your ship with light weaponry if necessary.
- Pass on your existing skills and knowledge to junior members of the Deck team, assisting in their development, while continuing your own.
Pay & benefits
- Earn £29,500+ from the day you start
- Earned Voyage Leave (EVL) of 21 days for every month spent on board ship
- Membership of a Civil Service Pension scheme
- World-class training
- Potential to travel the world
Skills for life Qualifications you’ll gain
- Top-up your Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) certification portfolio
- Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology accredited qualifications
Skills you’ll develop
- Leadership, teamwork, command and management skills
- Additional Navy-specific seamanship skills
Eligibility
- Aged at least 17 years 6 months to apply, and 18 years to commence employment. There is no upper age limit
- ENG1 medical certificate, unrestricted for worldwide sea service
- Proof of recent sea sea service aboard a Merchant Navy vessel in the last 5 years in the Deck branch
- British, Irish or Commonwealth citizens. However, a number of career paths have nationality restrictions. Dual Nationality will be considered providing the first nationality is British. Note: Residency restrictions may apply
- Four elements of basic training, updated iaw Manila Convention 2010
- Personal Survival Techniques (STCW Code-Table A-Vl/1-1)
- Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting (STCW Code-Table A-Vl/1-2)
- Elementary First Aid (STCW Code-Table A-Vl/1-3)
- Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities (STCW Code-Table A-Vl/1-4)
- STCW recognised Navigational Watch Rating Certificate
- Certificate of Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boats (CPSC&RB) or a Certificate of Proficiency in Survival Craft (CPSC) or a Lifeboatman Certificate
- Have confidence with jumping into water and the ability to wade whilst wearing a life jacket
Check your Eligibilty
Skills & Interests
- A real passion for life at sea
- Strong teamwork skills
- First-class communication
- A sense of adventure
Reed- UNLIMITED | Qualified Seamanship Specialist (RFA) employer: Reed- UNLIMITED
Contact Detail:
Reed- UNLIMITED Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Reed- UNLIMITED | Qualified Seamanship Specialist (RFA)
✨Tip Number 1
Make sure to highlight your hands-on experience with deck equipment and seamanship skills during any discussions or interviews. This role is all about practical knowledge, so be ready to share specific examples of your past experiences at sea.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarize yourself with the Royal Fleet Auxiliary's operations and recent missions. Showing that you understand their role in supporting the Royal Navy will demonstrate your genuine interest in the position and the organization.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current or former RFA personnel if possible. They can provide valuable insights into the role and the culture within the organization, which can help you tailor your approach when applying.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your leadership and teamwork experiences, as these are crucial for this role. Think of situations where you've successfully led a team or collaborated effectively, and be ready to share those stories.
We think you need these skills to ace Reed- UNLIMITED | Qualified Seamanship Specialist (RFA)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience: Make sure to emphasize your previous sea service and any relevant qualifications you have. Detail your experience with deck operations, safety protocols, and teamwork in maritime environments.
Showcase Your Skills: Clearly outline your seamanship skills and any certifications you hold, such as the STCW training. Mention specific equipment you are familiar with and any leadership roles you've undertaken.
Express Your Passion for the Role: Convey your enthusiasm for life at sea and your commitment to supporting the Royal Navy. Share examples of how you thrive in challenging environments and your willingness to learn and develop further.
Tailor Your Application: Customize your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific requirements of the Qualified Seamanship Specialist role. Use keywords from the job description to demonstrate that you understand the position and its responsibilities.
How to prepare for a job interview at Reed- UNLIMITED
✨Show Your Passion for the Sea
Make sure to express your genuine enthusiasm for life at sea. Share personal experiences or stories that highlight your love for maritime operations and how they have shaped your career.
✨Demonstrate Teamwork Skills
Since teamwork is crucial in this role, prepare examples of past experiences where you successfully collaborated with others. Highlight your ability to work under pressure and support your team during challenging situations.
✨Highlight Relevant Qualifications
Be ready to discuss your qualifications and certifications in detail. Emphasize any specific training related to seamanship, safety protocols, and emergency response that aligns with the job requirements.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions related to deck operations, equipment handling, and safety procedures. Brush up on your knowledge of RAS operations and be prepared to explain how you would handle various scenarios on board.