Maritime Deck Apprentice

The ocean and coastal seas are the most exciting, yet challenging, environments to work in. Over the past thirty years, Plymouth Marine Laboratory has been at the forefront of pushing forward our understanding of the oceans using a combination of observations and modelling. PML is looking to appoint an Apprentice based in its Ships Group, to combine work-based learning with a formal qualification leading to a Level 3 Apprenticeship as Workboat Crewmember.

On completion of the apprenticeship there may be a possibility of an exciting career in this group working at sea on the RV Plymouth Quest and RIB PML Explorer in support of scientific research.

Purpose of Apprenticeship

PML is looking for a talented and enthusiastic sea going apprentice to join our team of Ships staff to support the scientific research being undertaken of the Western Channel Observatory and other scientific projects.

Principal Accountabilities:

1. To work on the deck of RV Plymouth Quest as part of a crew of 4 in varying roles and sometimes arduous conditions.
2. To take water samples with a rosette sampler to gathering electronic data with various pieces of equipment fitted to the vessel.
3. To use numerous mechanical samplers for bottom sampling.
4. To assist the engineers in performing basic tasks to keep the vessel running smoothly and safely: this can vary from engine servicing to fixing mechanical hardware.
5. To help in the housekeeping of the vessel which will include the cleaning and tidying and basic seamanship tasks of dealing with ropes and moorings.
6. To work on the deck of the RIB PML Explorer, providing assistance and good housekeeping tasks as required.
7. Accept legal responsibility for own safety and that of others, including, where appropriate, staff for whom there is a management responsibility.

Qualifications and Skills needed:

• GCSE C or above in Mathematics and English
• Excellent communication skills
• Aptitude for problem solving and using initiative
• Good eye for detail
• Ability and willingness to follow correct procedures
• Basic computer skills
• The ability to work well as part of a team

The Apprenticeship will be running in conjunction with Whitby Training School and will require several residential stays in Yorkshire for significant periods of time.

Initially, the candidate will spend the first few months working on board with the Ships Crew; the training at Whitby will commence in September 2019, lasting for 24 months.

Closing Date: 1200hrs on Wednesday 25th April 2019.

Interviews will take place in early May 2019.