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Able Seafarer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AMHS - Able Seafarer

Juneau, AK · On-site

$31.56 - $38.92/hr

As an Able Seafarer, you'll be part of a hardworking crew that keeps Alaska's coastal communities connected-working aboard vessels, building real-world skills, and experiencing some of the most ...

AMHS - Able Seafarer

Juneau, AK · On-site

$31.56 - $38.92/hr

As an Able Seafarer, you'll be part of a hardworking crew that keeps Alaska's coastal communities connected-working aboard vessels, building real-world skills, and experiencing some of the most ...

National Able Seafarer (AB) Special Deck Rating. * Must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret Clearance. Required Certifications * STCW Basic Training * Basic Fire Fighting * Personal Survival ...

National Able Seafarer (AB) Special Deck Rating. * Must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret Clearance. Required Certifications * STCW Basic Training * Basic Fire Fighting * Personal Survival ...

National Able Seafarer (AB) Special Deck Rating. * Must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret Clearance. Required Certifications * STCW Basic Training * Basic Fire Fighting * Personal Survival ...

Damage Control Officer (DCO)

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$163.81 - $200.21/hr

Able Seafarer - Deck or Able Seafarer - Engine. Applicants with an Engineer's license must also possess at Universal EPA Ozone Depleting Substances certificate. Applicants with a Deck license must ...

Chief Engineer

Galveston, TX · On-site

$150 - $220/hr

OICEW, RFPEW, and Able Seafarer Engine Credentials * TWIC Card and USCG Medical Certificate * Firefighting, Emergency Response, and First Aid * Engineering Crew Supervision and Training Description A ...

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 ...

Officer In Charge of a Navigation Watch (STCW A-II/I-OINCW 500 Gross Tons or more), Able Seafarer-Deck (STCW II/5), RFPNW (STCW II/4), STCW Basic Safety Training (STCW VI/1), PSC (STCW VI/2), Vessel ...

Able Seafarer-Deck (STCW II/5), * RFPNW (STCW II/4), * Must hold the following National Endorsements: * Able Bodied Seaman, * Lifeboatman, * Ordinary Seaman, * Steward's Department (F.H.) * Tankerman ...

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Able Seafarer information

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$12

$32

$99

How much do able seafarer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for able seafarer in the United States is $32.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $31.73 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an able seafarer?

Able Seafarers are skilled members of a ship's deck crew who have experience and training in various seamanship tasks. They assist with navigation, maintenance, cargo operations, and safety procedures on board. Able Seafarers are essential for the efficient running of a vessel and often work under the supervision of officers. To become an Able Seafarer, one typically needs to complete specific training and obtain certification according to international maritime regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an able seafarer?

To thrive as an Able Seafarer, you need strong seamanship skills, knowledge of maritime safety regulations, and a valid STCW certificate or equivalent maritime qualification. Familiarity with vessel maintenance tools, navigation equipment, and safety management systems is typically required. Teamwork, alertness, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for working safely and efficiently onboard. These skills ensure the safe operation of the vessel, compliance with international standards, and the well-being of all crew members.

What are some common challenges faced by an able seafarer during long voyages?

Able Seafarers often encounter challenges such as adapting to extended periods away from home, working in varying weather conditions, and managing fatigue due to shift work. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as they frequently collaborate with officers and other crew members to ensure the vessel's safety and efficiency. Staying vigilant about safety protocols and maintaining both physical and mental well-being are key to succeeding in this dynamic and demanding environment.

What is the difference between Able Seafarer vs Ordinary Seaman?

AspectAble SeafarerOrdinary Seaman
CertificationsSTCW Basic Safety, Proficiency in Survival Craft & Rescue BoatsSTCW Basic Safety, Basic Safety Training
Work EnvironmentDeck department, onboard ships, performing navigation and safety dutiesDeck department, assisting with deck operations and maintenance
ResponsibilitiesAssist in navigation, safety, cargo handling, and watchkeepingAssist with deck work, cleaning, maintenance, and cargo operations

The Able Seafarer holds more advanced certifications and responsibilities compared to an Ordinary Seaman. They are trained to assist in navigation and safety tasks, often taking on more complex duties onboard ships. Ordinary Seamen typically perform basic deck duties and support the deck crew. Both roles are essential in the deck department, but the Able Seafarer has a higher level of certification and responsibility, making it a step up in maritime career progression.

How do I become an able seafarer?

To become an able seafarer, you need to complete a recognized maritime training program and obtain the necessary certifications, such as the Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW) certificate. Additionally, gaining practical experience onboard ships and passing medical examinations are essential steps in qualifying for the role.
More about Able Seafarer jobs

What states have the most Able Seafarer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Able Seafarer jobs include:

Infographic showing various Able Seafarer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,358 per year, or $32.4 per hour.

AMHS - Able Seafarer

Juneau, AK • On-site


State of Alaska
Public Administration • 10K+ employees

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 74 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 50 rated states

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer


$31.56 - $38.92/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Job Description ATTENTION. ALL APPLICANTS. Set sail on a career where your office is on the Alaska coastline and every day brings new horizon and new people.

As an Able Seafarer, you'll be part of a hardworking crew that keeps Alaska's coastal communities connected-working aboard vessels, building real-world skills, and experiencing some of the most incredible scenery in the state. Salary Schedules for Seafarer's are as follows: Southwest (SW) Route: Resident: $35.62 / hourly (OT Eligible) Non-Resident: $31.56 / hourly (OT Eligible) Southeast (SE) Route: Resident: $38.92 / hourly (OT Eligible) Non-Resident: $33.69 / hourly (OT Eligible) What you will be doing: As a Seafarer with AMHS, you will support daily vessel operations by standing wheel and lookout watches, assisting with safe navigation, and working closely with the deck crew to maintain efficient operations. You will help tie up and let go of the vessel, load and unload vehicles and cargo, operate deck equipment, and perform routine maintenance such as washing decks, handling lines, and maintaining rigging

You will also assist with cargo securing, monitor vessel access points for safety and security, operate equipment like forklifts when needed, and participate in emergency response duties, -including lifeboat operations, as part of the vessel's emergency team. Our organization, mission, and culture: The Alaska Marine Highway System (AMHS) is a vital part of the State of Alaska's transportation network, connecting coastal communities that are not accessible by road. As part of the Alaska Department of Transportation & Public Facilities, AMHS plays a critical role in keeping Alaska moving-supporting residents, businesses, and visitors through safe and reliable marine service.

Our mission is to provide essential transportation services that strengthen Alaska's communities, promote economic opportunity, and ensure safe, efficient travel across the state's coastal regions. At AMHS, our culture is built on teamwork, service, and pride in what we do. Life at sea requires a strong commitment to safety, accountability, and supporting one another in a dynamic, 24/7 environment.

We value employees who are adaptable, hardworking, and dedicated to serving the public. Whether working behind the scenes or directly with passengers, every crew member contributes to delivering a positive and professional experience onboard. The benefits of joining our team: The State of Alaska has a generous benefits package and an excellent retirement plan.

Please see here for more information: https://doa.alaska.gov/dop/workplace/benefits/. AMHS provides upward mobility and progressive advancement opportunities to higher-paying positions. New hires who successfully complete their probationary period can apply for regularly assigned bid positions if they meet the MQ's (Minimum Qualifications)

Union seniority plays a major role in how the work is assigned and how the bid positions are awarded. However, while building up seniority, it is not unusual for the new hires to work higher-paying positions before being able to bid, through onboard upgrades, especially during the busy summer season. The working environment you can expect: Working aboard AMHS means operating in a dynamic, fast-paced marine environment across Alaska's coastal routes, where schedules, locations, and crew rotations are driven by vessel operations.

The Alaska Marine Highway System operates across two distinct service regions. The Southeast (SE) route serves communities between Bellingham, Washington and Skagway, Alaska, and is the primary operating area for most vessels. The Southwest (SW) route serves more remote communities between Cordova and the Aleutian Chain and has a smaller relief pool.

Current recruitment efforts are primarily focused on the Southeast region. AMHS vessel operations run 24/7, including days, nights, weekends, and holidays. Employees are typically assigned to a 2 week-on / 2 week-off rotation, working an average of 84 hours per week while onboard.

Daily schedules may range from 8 to 12 hours and can include split shifts. Vessel assignments are managed by dispatch, and daily duties are directed by vessel supervisors. Flexibility is essential, as crew members may be reassigned or asked to work in different roles during their hitch.

Crew change locations are as follows: Southeast (SE): Ketchikan, Juneau Southwest (SW): Homer, Valdez To view the general description and example of duties for the position, please go to the following link: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/Alaska/classspecs Minimum Qualifications Required Qualifications for Application To be considered for this position, applicants must submit copies of the following valid credentials with their application: Valid U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) issued Merchant Mariner's Credential (MMC) endorsed with the following: National Endorsements: Able Seafarer (AB) Limited/Special or AB Unlimited Lifeboat Operator Valid Transportation Worker Identification Card (TWIC) (color copy) Current DOT Drug Test (within the last 6 months) Current USCG Medical Certificate (STCW 2yr date) Valid Driver's License Preferred Qualifications Applicants may begin work without the qualifications listed below; however, work assignments may be limited to specific vessels, watch assignments, or duties until the required qualifications are obtained: Merchant Mariner's Credential (MMC) endorsements: STCW Endorsements: Basic (Safety) Training (VI/1) Proficient in the use of Survival Craft (VI/2) Ratings Forming Part of a Navigational Watch (II/4) Additional Required Information **NOTE: PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING CAREFULLY** EDUCATION To verify education is being used to meet and/or support the required minimum qualifications/competencies, you must fill in the Education section of the application. If you have not obtained a degree, please indicate the number of units completed

Copies of transcripts are required to verify educational credentials used to meet or support the minimum qualifications/competencies for a position and are required with each application. (Unofficial is okay; please ensure the institution/URL name is listed on the transcripts). Transcripts can be attached at the time of application or provided at the time of interview; if not, transcripts will be required before employment.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR FOREIGN EDUCATION Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the above requirements, if applicable. If utilizing this education you must show that the education credentials have been submitted to a private organization that specializes in interpretation of foreign educational credentials and that such education has been deemed to be at least equivalent to that gained in conventional U.S. education programs; or an accredited U.S

state university reports the other institution as one whose transcript is given full value, or full value is given in subject areas applicable to the curricula at the state university. It is your responsibility to provide such evidence when applying. WORK EXPERIENCE If using work experience not already documented in your application, also provide the employer's name, your job title, dates of employment, and whether full-or part-time.

Applications will be reviewed to determine if the responses are supported, and minimum qualifications are clearly met. If they are not, the applicant may not advance to the interview and selection phase of the recruitment. NOTE: Attaching a resume or curriculum vitae is not an alternative to filling out the application in its entirety.

Noting "see resume or CV" or any similar response on any portion of your application may lead to a determination your application is incomplete and removal from consideration for this job posting. EEO STATEMENT The State of Alaska complies with Title I of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Individuals with disabilities, who require accommodation, auxiliary aides or services, or alternative communication formats, please call 1-800-587-0430 or (907) 465-4095 in Juneau or TTY: Alaska Relay 711 or 1-800-770-8973 or correspond with the Division of Personnel & Labor Relations at: P.O

Box 110201, Juneau, AK 99811-0201. The State of Alaska is an equal opportunity employer. Contact Information For specific information about this position, please contact the Recruitment Coordinator at the following: Name: Makayln Ashbaker, Administrative Officer 2 / Recruitment Coordinator Phone: (907) 228-7255 Email: makayln.ashbaker@alaska.gov


State of Alaska logo

About State of Alaska

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Alaska is not a traditional company, but rather a governmental body responsible for running the state, the largest in the U.S. by area. This body's responsibilities include public utilities, healthcare, transportation, environmental protection, and public safety services among others. Designed to serve the interests of the Alaskan people, it was established in 1959 when Alaska was officially accepted as the 49th U.S. State. The official website, alaska.gov, is a comprehensive resource offering access to a multitude of departments, services, and information pertaining to the state.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Anchorage, AK, US

Year founded

1959

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