Overview
As Able Seafarer (Crane Operations Lead) you will oversee crane operations and seamanship on Royal Fleet Auxiliary vessels, guiding safe lifting, cargo handling, and deck readiness. You will work with the bosun, XO and deck team to uphold high safety and efficiency standards. The role combines hands-on crane control with leadership of deck teams in a mission-critical maritime environment. You’ll contribute to vessel readiness and safe, environmentally conscious operations. This position offers hands-on impact aboard RFA ships with strong safety culture and professional growth.
Pay / Benefits
- Up to 6% contributory pension
- Internal courses and apprenticeships
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Wellbeing services
- Retail discounts
- Volunteering day
Responsibilities
- Lead crane operations with pre-operation safety briefings and lifting plans
- Ensure safety of personnel during crane work and enforce PPE and safe systems of work
- Operate lifting appliances safely using knowledge of load forces and stress factors
- Support cargo handling, stores transfers and environmental/pollution prevention procedures
- Assist berthing/un-berthing and safe vessel access
- Maintain seamanship equipment, cranes and associated machinery with routine inspections
- Prepare and secure deck equipment and stores for sea readiness
- Support ship's boats and deck equipment maintenance under Seaman ship Branch
- Uphold housekeeping, equipment preservation and operational discipline
- Ensure compliance with Health and Safety regulations, RFA standards and procedures
Key requirements
- AB Certificate of Competence
- Crane Operator Stage qualification with competence in offshore/subsea lifting
- Fast Rescue Boat Certificate
- STCW certifications including PSS, Fire Fighting, PSS, Survival Craft, and First Aid
- ENG1 medical and valid passport
- Experience supporting ROV/subsea operations and offshore mission systems
- Knowledge of LOLER and PUWER; lifting equipment inspection
- Experience lift planning, toolbox talks and dynamic risk assessments
- Experience operating cranes on RFA, MOD or offshore vessels (preferred)
- IT literate with MS Office (Word, Outlook)
- Effective communication and leadership in safety-critical operations
- Safety-focused
- Clear communicator
- Lead and influence deck teams
- Crane operations and lift planning
- Load calculations and risk assessment
- Maintenance and inspection of cranes and deck equipment
Able Seafarer (Crane Operations Lead) in Hampshire employer: Serco Group
Serco is an exceptional employer that prioritises the protection of data as a core value, ensuring trust and integrity in its operations across various critical public services. With a competitive salary, generous benefits including a company car or allowance, and a commitment to employee growth through flexible working arrangements, Serco fosters a collaborative work culture where every team member can influence strategic decisions and contribute to meaningful change. As a Disability Confident Leader and Gold Inclusive Employer Standard holder, Serco champions diversity and equal opportunities, making it an attractive workplace for all.
