Deck Rating-Maritime North - OOP Operations

Deck Rating (AB/EDH)

Location: Kyle of Lochalsh, Ross-Shire, IV40 8AJ
Salary: Competitive plus excellent benefits
Schedule: Perm/FT/48 hours - rostered 4 weeks on, 4 weeks off

For applicants who live further than 80 miles away from Kyle of Lochalsh, Serco will pay a maximum of 0.55p per mile for travel to and from base. 

Ready to impact a better future?

As a Deck Rating within our Defence Marine team, you’ll play an essential role in supporting the safe and efficient operation of our vessels. Acting as a key member of the deck crew, you’ll carry out a wide range of operational, maintenance and cargo-handling activities that help ensure vessels remain safe, compliant and mission ready.

Every day, you’ll contribute to safe marine operations through teamwork, attention to detail and a proactive approach to safety. Working closely with the Vessel Bosun and wider operational teams, you’ll help maintain high standards of vessel care while supporting critical maritime services.

What you’ll do as a Deck Rating

• Support berthing, slipping and other deck operations to ensure the safe movement and operation of the vessel.


• Carry out ship husbandry, cleaning and general maintenance duties to maintain vessel readiness and presentation standards.


• Operate deck machinery, including cranes and other vessel equipment, where appropriately trained and authorised.


• Assist with routine maintenance, lubrication and minor repairs to shipboard equipment and machinery.


• Follow safe systems of work, permits to work and vessel safety procedures at all times.


• Maintain familiarity with emergency procedures, safety equipment and contingency arrangements, contributing to a strong safety culture on board.

Does this sound like you?

• MCA Efficient Deck Hand certificate or MCA Able Seafarer Deck Certificate of Proficiency


• Valid unrestricted ENG1 Medical Certificate.


• Current STCW certification, including Personal Survival Techniques, Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities, Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting, Survival Craft and Elementary First Aid.


• STCW Proficiency in Designated Security Duties.


• A methodical approach with good attention to detail and a strong commitment to safety.


• Ability to communicate effectively, work collaboratively and remain composed in challenging situations.


• Experience with marine safety management systems and deck operations would be advantageous.

What we offer

• Up to 6% contributory pension scheme


• Over 1,100 internal courses available, funding for qualifications and apprenticeships (we currently offer over 60 different apprenticeships), mentoring opportunities, and a focus on internal progression.


• Employee Assistance Programme, Bupa Anytime HealthLine, wellbeing app, 30% off at Serco-managed leisure centres, and 24/7 access to a virtual GP service


• Discounts across around 1,000 retailers, from food and clothing to days out, entertainment and travel


• Paid volunteering day, tax-free charitable giving through Payroll Giving Scheme, donate your pennies from your monthly pay to the Serco People Fund Charity


• Our employee networks support connection by providing spaces for collaboration, learning, and belonging. They represent and empower all our colleagues including veterans, LGBTQIA+ employees, women, parents and carers, people with disabilities, and people from all cultural backgrounds.

Vetting and checks:

This role requires Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) clearance, which involves verifying your identity, employment history, nationality, and criminal record to meet government security standards. In addition, depending on the nature of the role, you may need to obtain formal Security Clearance (such as CTC or SC), which includes more detailed background checks on employment, criminal record, and financial history to ensure suitability for working in secure environments. Please note that UK residency requirements may apply for certain levels of clearance. You will also complete an Occupational Health Questionnaire so we can identify and provide any support you may need to undertake the role effectively.

Let’s impact a better future, together. Apply today.

A little bit about us:
At Serco, everyone plays a vital part in delivering essential public services that make a real difference. As a global team of 50,000 people across Defence, Transport, Justice, Immigration, Healthcare, Leisure and Citizen Services, we’re united by a shared purpose: to improve the services that communities rely on. Guided by our values of Trust, Care, Innovation and Pride, our people make meaningful impact, every single day.

Our inclusive recruitment commitment:
We prioritise your skills and potential. As a Disability Confident Leader, the Top Great British Employer of Veterans 2026, and a Gold Inclusive Employer Standard holder, we champion equal opportunities for all. We offer flexible and hybrid working where possible and make reasonable adjustments throughout recruitment and employment.

• Guaranteed Interview Scheme: Applicants with disabilities, veterans and people with convictions, who meet the minimum job criteria, are guaranteed an interview. Simply opt into the relevant scheme on the application form.


• Ban The Box: We also support fair access for those with unspent criminal convictions through our ‘Ban the Box’ pledge (some roles may have security exemptions).

For support with your application, please contact [email protected].

Let’s impact a better future, together. Apply today.

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