Able seaman
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An able seaman (AB) is a seaman and member of the deck department of a merchant ship with more than two years' experience at sea and considered "well acquainted with his duty". An AB may work as a watchstander, a day worker, or a combination of these roles. Once a sufficient amount of sea time is acquired, then the AB can apply to take a series of courses/examinations to become certified as an officer.
Able seamen generally serve as a ship's helmsmen, relying on visual references, compasses, and a rudder angle indicator to steer a steady course as directed by the mate or other officer on the bridge.
Dayworker AB preparing a mast for painting
Knowing how to safely work aloft to maintain cargo rigging is a skill required of an AB.
ABs were in high demand during World War II.
Sailor
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A sailor, seaman, mariner, or seafarer is a person who works aboard a watercraft as part of its crew, and may work in any one of a number of different fields that are related to the operation and maintenance of a ship.
Three types of mariners, seen here in the wheelhouse of a ship: a master, able seaman, and harbour pilot.
An able seaman stands iceberg lookout on the bow of the freighter USNS Southern Cross during a re-supply mission to McMurdo Station, Antarctica; circa 1981.
Portrait of a sailor taken on board the French aviso Ardent, 1857
Sailors on a ship