Entry rating Z-cards are issued by the Coast Guard without any written examinations. To obtain these entry level endorsements one has to present a letter of employment or commitment for employment from the company one will be working for, pass a physical, and pass a background check for drug convictions or other felonies. Entry ratings for the deck department are classified as Ordinary Seamen . Entry ratings for the engine room are classified as Wipers . Entry ratings in the stewards department are classified as Food Handlers .
Deckhands are responsible for general labor and cleaning on the boat.
They do whatever is needed whenever it's needed. Wiper Entry level position. Wipers provide labor and cleaning in the engine room under the supervision of the engineer. These are the guys that make the deck department hum. ABs are responsible for general upkeep and painting of the vessel and its equipment, including mooring equipment, anchors, chains and lines, and lifeboats and safety equipment.