Introduction

Thinking about a career at sea? If you’re eyeing a job on a tanker vessel, the role of Deck Rating could be your gateway. Tankers require a skilled and certified crew—especially deck ratings—to ensure the safe and efficient transportation of hazardous cargo across oceans. But what does it take to become one? And how do you land a job quickly?

The answer? wwcrew.com – your go-to platform for maritime job applications. Let’s break it all down.

Understanding the Role of Deck Rating

Duties and Responsibilities

Deck Ratings are the backbone of deck operations. From assisting in mooring/unmooring to cargo operations and maintenance, they’re the crew who make sure everything runs smoothly on deck.

Skills and Training Needed

You must have:

• Basic seamanship knowledge
• Physical fitness
• Teamwork and communication skills
• Ability to work under tough sea conditions

STCW Certification

You can’t work without this! The Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW) certificate is mandatory. This includes:

• Basic Safety Training
• Personal Survival Techniques
• Elementary First Aid
• Fire Prevention and Firefighting

Tanker Familiarization

For tankers specifically, you need Tanker Familiarization Training which includes knowledge of hazardous cargo, safety protocols, and equipment handling.

Types of Tanker Vessels

Oil Tankers

Transport crude or refined petroleum products. Risk of fire and spills is high—training is critical.

Chemical Tankers

Handle toxic and reactive chemicals. Requires advanced chemical handling skills and strict safety practices.

LNG/LPG Tankers

These vessels carry liquefied gases under high pressure. Specialized knowledge of cryogenic cargo is necessary.

Qualifications Required for Deck Rating on Tankers

Basic Requirements

• Age: 18+
• Medical Fitness Certificate
• Basic STCW Courses
• Valid Passport and CDC (Continuous Discharge Certificate)

Specific Tanker Certification

To work on tankers, you’ll need:

• Tanker Familiarization Course
• Oil and Chemical Tanker Cargo Operations (Advanced Training for certain roles)

Advanced Firefighting

You must be ready to handle fires in high-risk zones.

Proficiency in Survival Craft

Because emergencies are real, and you might need to evacuate fast.

How to Apply for Tanker Jobs on wwcrew.com

Create an Account

Head over to wwcrew.com and register with your seafarer details.

Upload Your CV and Certificates

Make sure your resume is updated and all STCW and tanker-related certificates are attached.

Filter Jobs by Tanker Type

Use the site’s filter to apply only for oil, chemical, or gas tanker jobs that match your experience.

Benefits of Applying via wwcrew.com

Verified Companies

No scams or fake jobs. Only genuine shipping companies.

Fast Application Process

Easy interface, quick uploads, and instant alerts.

Global Opportunities

From Asia to Europe, find tanker jobs that fit your profile worldwide.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Incomplete Profile

Don’t forget to upload your medical, passport, CDC, and certifications.

Wrong Certifications

Applying for a chemical tanker with just oil training? That’s a red flag.

Ignoring Job Requirements

If they ask for 12 months of experience, don’t apply with 2. You’re wasting your time.

Tips for a Successful Application

Tailor Your CV

Highlight your tanker experience and specific skills like cargo hose handling or emergency drills.

Highlight Tanker Experience

Even if it’s just training or short voyages, it counts!

Be Prompt with Responses

Shipping companies move fast. Don’t leave them waiting.

Interview Preparation for Deck Ratings

Sample Questions

• How do you handle oil spill emergencies?
• What PPE is used during cargo loading?
• What is inert gas and why is it used?

Documents You Must Carry

• All original STCW certificates
• Passport, CDC
• Medical and Tanker Certificates

Salary Expectations for Deck Ratings on Tankers

By Rank and Experience

• Entry-level Deck Rating: $800 – $1,200/month
• Experienced AB (Able Seaman): $1,500 – $2,500/month

By Tanker Type

• Chemical Tankers: Often higher due to risk
• LNG/LPG: Top-paying for specialized roles

Career Growth Opportunities

From Deck Rating to Officer

Start as an Ordinary Seaman, move up to AB, then work towards becoming a Third Mate with the right courses.

Training Courses and Upgrades

Enroll in Officer of the Watch (OOW) programs and tanker-specific upgrade courses.

Safety Challenges Working on Tankers

Cargo Handling Risks

Flammable and reactive substances mean strict protocols must be followed.

Environmental Hazards

Exposure to chemicals and gas requires protective gear and regular health checks.

Life Onboard a Tanker Vessel

Work Schedule

Usually 6-hour shifts, 2 times a day (6 on, 6 off). Be ready for night watches.

Living Conditions

Good food, internet (on most vessels), but yes—it’s isolated. Mental toughness is key.

Final Checklist Before You Apply

Documents Verification

Double-check expiry dates and signatures.

Valid Medical Certificates

Make sure your medical is recent and tanker-approved.

Updated Passport and CDC

Without these, your application won’t go through.

Conclusion

The job of a Deck Rating on a tanker vessel is not just about hard work—it’s about responsibility, training, and safety. If you’ve got the right certifications and mindset, it’s a rewarding career with opportunities for global travel and career advancement.

And with wwcrew.com, applying is easier than ever. Upload your profile, showcase your experience, and land the tanker job you deserve.