Deck Hand

899211 · Heavy Next-day ready

Career data Close match

Deckhands help operate ships and other sailing vessels. They may handle cargo and do routine cleaning and maintenance.

Most common salary $64k – $115k

Upper salary up to $168k

Training 0-1 year

Matched as "Deckhand"

Performs maintenance and lookout tasks aboard a ship.

Handles ropes and wires, and operates mooring equipment when berthing and unberthing; stands lookout watches at sea and adjusts the ship's course as directed; assists with cargo operations using on-board equipment and stows and secures cargo; patrols ships to ensure safety of the vessel, cargo and passengers; performs routine maintenance and checks on deck equipment, cargo gear, rigging, and lifesaving and fire fighting appliances.

Works above and below deck on ships.
Works in all weather and sea conditions and may live onboard for extended periods.
Frequently works in wet, cold and demanding situations when loading, unloading or berthing and casting off.
Occasionally to frequently works with cables and ropes.

Medium to heavy physical demand
Stands and walks frequently to move ropes, load and unload stock and complete general on-board tasks.
May sit for periods when on duty, depending upon required tasks.
Frequently climbs and work off ladders and gangways.
Uses upper limbs and body to stretch up and across on a frequent basis in order to carry out lifting, stowing of cargo and cleaning or other tasks.
Occasionally to frequently squats or crouches in order to carry out crewing tasks.
Bending is likely on an occasionally to frequent basis, especially for lifting tasks.
Occasionally to frequently twists the body or neck.
Frequently lifts and carries and pushes or pulls on ropes and other on-board supplies and materials.
Occasional repetitive hand and arm movements are likely to be required when working with ropes.
Operation of small cranes or on-board loaders or winches may be occasionally necessary.
Uses a range of hand and power equipment such as winches and cleats and ropes as well as general cleaning and maintenance equipment.
Mental skills necessary include practical, technical and organisational skills.

Entry signal Reviewed

Enter via experience or on-the-job training; no mandatory pre-entry qualification. Flagged next-day ready.

Entry barrier Experience or on-job training

Licence / registration No licence required

ANZSCO skill level 4

Next-day ready Yes

How this was determined (model-generated): Level 2/3 OR 1yr experience OR entry-level OJT — experience pathway, no legal gate.

A New Zealand Register Level 2 or 3 qualification or at least one year of relevant experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 4). In some instances relevant experience may be required in addition to the formal qualification. For entry-level positions on-the-job training may be sufficient.