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Able Bodied Seaman Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Amentum

Able Seaman with Security Clearance

Waimea, HI · On-site

The Able Seaman (AB) is a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) crew position aboard assigned US NAVY Range Support Craft for the Pacific Missile Range Facility (PMRF) at Barking Sands, HI. The AB is a ...

Lynden Incorporated

AB Seaman - Alaska

Anchorage, AK · On-site

Bering Marine is seeking an Able Bodied Seaman. As an AB Seaman, you'll help keep vessels running safely by supporting deck operations and crew activities. Join a stable, family-owned company with a ...

lynden

AB Seaman - Alaska

Anchorage, AK

Bering Marine is seeking an Able Bodied Seaman. As an AB Seaman, you'll help keep vessels running safely by supporting deck operations and crew activities. Join a stable, familyowned company with a ...

lynden

AB Seaman - Alaska

Anchorage, AK · On-site

Bering Marine is seeking an Able Bodied Seaman. As an AB Seaman, you'll help keep vessels running safely by supporting deck operations and crew activities. Join a stable, familyowned company with a ...

Tamus

Ablebodied Seaman

Galveston, TX

Job Title Ablebodied Seaman Agency Texas A&M University at Galveston Department Texas A&M Maritime ... Must be able to work in various temperatures, indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions ...

New DHC

Able Bodied Seafarer

East Newport, ME · On-site

$52K - $63K/yr

ABLE SEAMAN (AB) - LARGE VESSEL Location: Coastal Maine Rotation: 2 weeks on / 2 weeks off The Role: New DHC is seeking Able Seamen (ABs) to support deck operations, watch standing, and general ...

ssc

Tankerman - Marine

Norfolk, VA

Able Bodied Seaman, * Lifeboatman, * Ordinary Seaman, * Steward's Department (F.H.) * Tankerman PIC limited to Dangerous Liquid (DL) - Experience with Caustic Soda preferred * Must hold a valid TWIC ...

McAllister Towing

Mate

Norfolk, VA · On-site

Several years as an Able-Bodied Seaman/Ordinary Seaman. Required Qualifications: * Current GMDSS, ARPA, Advanced Firefighting, First Aid/CPR * Valid Merchant Mariners Credential - 200-ton Mate ...

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Able Bodied Seaman information

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How much do able bodied seaman jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for able bodied seaman in the United States is $33.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.20 and $37.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an able bodied seaman?

An Able Bodied Seaman (AB) is a skilled deck crew member responsible for operating and maintaining a vessel under the supervision of officers. Duties include standing watch, handling cargo, mooring and anchoring operations, and general maintenance like painting and cleaning. ABs must have seamanship skills, including knot tying, rigging, and understanding navigational duties. They typically work on commercial ships, ferries, or offshore vessels. Certification and sea-time experience are required to hold this position.

What does an able bodied seaman do?

A typical workday for an Able Bodied Seaman involves a variety of responsibilities, including standing watch, operating deck equipment, handling mooring lines, performing maintenance tasks, and participating in safety drills. Shifts are usually organized in rotations to ensure 24/7 vessel operations, which might involve working both day and night hours. You will often collaborate closely with other crew members such as deck officers and engineers to ensure the vessel runs safely and efficiently. The role can be physically demanding and requires attention to safety protocols, but it offers valuable hands-on experience and exposure to the wider maritime industry.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an able bodied seaman?

To thrive as an Able Bodied Seaman, you need practical seamanship skills, basic knowledge of vessel operations, physical fitness, and a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with the AB rating. Familiarity with navigational tools, safety equipment, and emergency procedures certifications such as STCW are typically required. Strong teamwork, communication, and adaptability help you excel in a dynamic, often challenging maritime environment. These competencies ensure safety, effective vessel operations, and smooth collaboration on board.

How do you become an able-bodied seaman?

To become an able-bodied seaman, you typically need to complete a maritime training program or obtain a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) from the U.S. Coast Guard, which involves passing a physical exam, drug test, and written assessments. Prior experience or basic safety training, such as STCW certification, is also often required to work aboard ships in this role.

How much do able-bodied seamen make?

Able-bodied seamen typically earn between $2,000 and $4,000 per month, depending on experience, vessel type, and union agreements. They often work on ships for several months at a time, with additional pay for overtime and hazardous conditions.
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Able Bodied Seaman jobs near you
Infographic showing various Able Bodied Seaman job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, and 12% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $69,482 per year, or $33.4 per hour.

Able-Seaman (AB) - LMC

Lake Michigan Carferry

Ludington, MI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

 
 

Able-Seaman (AB) 

Able-Seaman

  • Performs navigational watch in and around the pilot house.
  • Assists Mate on duty with supervising the deck crew.
  • Assists in loading and off-loading passengers and cargo.
  • Proper use and care of deck equipment, supplies and material.
  • Work alongside deck crew, undertaking tasks as necessary.
  • Learn fire and lifeboat stations along with signals and procedures associated with an emergency to properly carry out a fire and lifeboat drill to US Coast Guard standards.
  • Be prepared to live and work aboard the vessel the duration of the sailing season, from mid-May to mid-Oct.  Room and board provided.
  • Employee will stand a 4-hour watch, twice a day, 7 days per week.
  • Eligible for medical, dental, vision and 401K after completing 90-day probationary period.

APPLICANTS FOR THE AB POSITIONS MUST BE QUALIFIED AND POSSES THE CREDENTIALS NEEDED FOR THIS POSITON.

AB Wheelsman

  • Steer vessel in and out of port and steer vessel out in the lake.
  • Perform functions necessary to dock the boat including lowering and raising the apron and locking and unlocking the vessel.

AB Watchman

  • Stands a watch as directed.
  • Handle lines and winches while docking and undocking vessel in port.
  • Drop and pick up anchor as directed.

Qualifications/Certifications required:

  • Valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)
  • Valid Merchant Mariners Credential issued by the U.S. Coast Guard
  • Endorsement as Able Seaman on MMC
  • Current USCG Medical Certificate
  • Legally eligible to be employed in the United States (Proof of identity and eligibility will be required upon employment.