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Able Seaman Jobs (NOW HIRING)

New DHC

Abled 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 ...

New DHC

Abled 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 ...

Andrie Crew

Able Bodied Seaman

Muskegon, MI · On-site

Description: * Performs daily sanitary duties on board vessel * Performs deck maintenance work as directed * Performs as directed in making/breaking tows * Prepares meals for Crew as directed

Andrie LLC

Able Bodied Seaman

Job Type Full-time Description * Performs daily sanitary duties on board vessel * Performs deck maintenance work as directed * Performs as directed in making/breaking tows * Prepares meals for Crew ...

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 ...

Cook Inlet Tug and Barge LLC

AB-Summer Seasonal

Anchorage, AK · On-site

$14.25 - $19.25/hr

Able Seaman (AB) Exciting Opportunity for Adventurous Mariners! Join the Cook Inlet Tug & Barge Team! ️ Are you ready for a maritime adventure that goes beyond the ordinary? Cook Inlet Tug & Barge ...

McAllister Towing

Ordinary Seaman

Staten Island, NY

$315/day

Ordinary Seaman (OS) Reports to: The Ordinary Seaman is responsible to the Captain at all times ... Able to handle heavy lines and operate heavy machinery. Ability to climb a 12-foot ladder without ...

New

Curtin Maritime, Corp

OSV Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$450 - $875/day

Able Seaman Endorsement VESSEL PROFICIENCIES: * Skilled in all Deckhand position duties * Assistant Engineer * Basic knowledge in engineering, troubleshooting, and repairs * Cleaning and maintaining ...

Cook Inlet Tug & Barge

AB-Summer Seasonal

Anchorage, AK

$14.25 - $18.50/hr

Able Seaman (AB) Exciting Opportunity for Adventurous Mariners! Join the Cook Inlet Tug & Barge Team! Are you ready for a maritime adventure that goes beyond the ordinary? Cook Inlet Tug & Barge ...

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All JobsAble Seaman Jobs

Able Seaman information

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$34

$41

How much do able seaman jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for able seaman in the United States is $34.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.63 and $40.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges an able seaman faces during extended voyages?

Able Seamen often encounter challenges such as adapting to long periods at sea, working in all weather conditions, and managing fatigue due to shift work. Teamwork is crucial, as the crew must rely on each other to maintain safety and efficiency, especially during rough weather or emergency situations. Regular training and following established safety protocols help mitigate these challenges and ensure smooth vessel operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an able seaman, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Able Seaman, you need a solid understanding of seamanship, navigation, and safety procedures, usually supported by a valid Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) and relevant sea service experience. Familiarity with shipboard equipment, lifesaving appliances, and deck machinery is essential, along with certifications such as STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping). Strong teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills help an Able Seaman work effectively under pressure and in challenging conditions. These competencies ensure the safe operation of vessels and the protection of crew and cargo at sea.

What does an able seaman do?

An able seaman provides a variety of services on a merchant ship. They may be asked to act as helmsman and navigate the boat, use equipment during emergencies, perform maintenance and sanitation, enforce security measures, operate deck machinery, keep watch for obstructions, or handle cargo. Most companies use the definition of this role provided by the United States Coast Guard, which considers able seamen to be any position below the officers that is above ordinary seamen, while also holding a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC). Able seamen typically work on the deck of a ship, assist other members of the crew as needed, and stop work if they notice unsafe conditions or practices.

What is the difference between Able Seaman vs Ordinary Seaman?

AspectAble SeamanOrdinary Seaman
CertificationsSTCW Basic Safety Training, specific vessel certificationsSTCW Basic Safety Training, entry-level certifications
Work EnvironmentDeck crew on ships, performing maintenance and watch dutiesEntry-level deck position, assisting Able Seaman and other crew
ResponsibilitiesWatchkeeping, maintenance, cargo operationsAssisting with deck duties, cleaning, basic maintenance

In summary, an Able Seaman has more experience, certifications, and responsibilities compared to an Ordinary Seaman. The Able Seaman plays a key role in ship operations, while the Ordinary Seaman is typically an entry-level position assisting the deck crew.

What is an able seaman?

Able Seamen (often abbreviated as AB or OS for Ordinary Seaman) are experienced deck crew members on board ships. They are responsible for a variety of tasks including maintaining the ship, handling cargo, operating deck equipment, and participating in navigation and safety procedures. Able Seamen must be knowledgeable in seamanship skills such as steering the vessel, tying knots, and responding to emergencies. This position typically requires certification and sea service experience. Able Seamen play a vital role in ensuring the safety and smooth operation of maritime vessels.
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Able Seaman jobs near you
Infographic showing various Able Seaman job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,187 per year, or $34.7 per hour.

ABLE SEAMAN w/PIC

Crowley Maritime Corporation

Anchorage, AK

$663.37/day

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Overview

As a privately held, U.S.-owned and operated company, Crowley provides services to 36 nations and island territories. Our purpose is to bravely advance what's possible to elevate people and planet, with our core values of Integrity, Sustainability and Drive guiding everything we do.

By expanding and innovating our services, we have expanded our footprint in services within the Logistics, Land Transportation, Shipping, Wind and Fuel industries. Crowley and its affiliated companies have generated more than $3.5 billion in annual revenue through our people's focus on excellence and a culture that values everyone's voices and collaboration. 

To continue laying the groundwork and challenge what's possible for our business, we seek to partner with individuals ready to elevate their careers with us

ABOUT US: A key role with the largest Jones Act employer with a diverse fleet of vessels. Crowley Fuels delivers clean petroleum products across remote Alaska, supplying communities, construction projects, government operations, and the commercial fishing industry. Our specialized tugs and barges, operated by skilled local mariners, allow us to reach challenging, shallow, and otherwise inaccessible areas to keep homes, businesses, and essential services powered across the state.

All employees have the opportunity to join the Mariner Employee Resource Group; which is focused on creating a safe, inclusive, and diverse workforce.


Responsibilities

Responsibilities: Crowley is actively hiring an Able Seafarer with Tankerman PIC endorsement in our Western Alaska fleet. The available position is with United Steelworkers (USW). Duties include but not limited to the following: All deck work - handing lines, chipping & painting, general maintenance, loading stores, and sanitary work. Must be accomplished and diligent watch stander, including the conduct of security rounds and fire watch throughout the entire vessel both pier side and underway. Must keep the officers informed of vessel condition at all times, and otherwise carry out orders in accordance with Company Procedures and Safety Policies.


Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications and Credentials 
• MMC
• Basic Training 
• VPDSD 
• Required STCW Endorsements and Training 
• Tankerman PIC (Barge) DL
• RFPNW (Ratings Forming Part of a Navigational Watch)
• Able Seafarer Deck
• Special or higher
• STCW Medical Certificate – STCW Expiration Date is used
• TWIC badge- Not to expire within three months
• Valid Passport – Not to expire within six months


Minimum Experience
• One (1) year experience or operating season sea time on tank vessels
• Competence in supporting deck and applicable engineering operations


Preferred Experience
• Familiarity with operating in Western Alaska waters
• Multi-grade cargo experience

Rotation
• Seasonal: April - November (periodic vacation rotations)

Geographic Area
• US West Coast to North Slope of Alaska, Aleutian Chain, and Canadian Arctic

Pay
• $663.37/Day

This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement. Compensation, including hourly wages or salary, benefits, and other terms of employment, will be in accordance with the applicable union contract.  Specific pay rates and benefits will be provided during the hiring process and are based on the terms outlined in the agreement.  

Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications and Credentials 
• MMC
• Basic Training 
• VPDSD 
• Required STCW Endorsements and Training 
• Tankerman PIC (Barge) DL
• RFPNW (Ratings Forming Part of a Navigational Watch)
• Able Seafarer Deck
• Special or higher
• STCW Medical Certificate – STCW Expiration Date is used
• TWIC badge- Not to expire within three months
• Valid Passport – Not to expire within six months


Minimum Experience
• One (1) year experience or operating season sea time on tank vessels
• Competence in supporting deck and applicable engineering operations


Preferred Experience
• Familiarity with operating in Western Alaska waters
• Multi-grade cargo experience

Rotation
• Seasonal: April - November (periodic vacation rotations)

Geographic Area
• US West Coast to North Slope of Alaska, Aleutian Chain, and Canadian Arctic

Pay
• $663.37/Day

This position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement. Compensation, including hourly wages or salary, benefits, and other terms of employment, will be in accordance with the applicable union contract.  Specific pay rates and benefits will be provided during the hiring process and are based on the terms outlined in the agreement.  

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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