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Boatswain Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Boatswain's Mate

Yorktown, VA · On-site

$22 - $24.75/hr

Are You... * Comfortable as a leader? * Attentive to detail? * Excited to operate small boats? * Interested in law enforcement? Skills You'll Learn Boat operations Seamanship and navigation ...

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Boatswain information

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$11K

$65.6K

$85.5K

How much do boatswain jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for boatswain in the United States is $65,588.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $85,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is a boatswain a military rank?

A boatswain is a maritime crew member responsible for the maintenance of the ship's equipment and deck operations. In some navies, the boatswain is a rank, but in commercial shipping, it is a job title for a senior crew member. The role involves supervising deck crew and handling rigging, with certifications often required.

Is Boatswain's mate a good job?

Boatswain's mate is a skilled maritime position responsible for deck operations, maintenance, and safety on ships. It offers opportunities for leadership, technical training, and travel, often with competitive pay and benefits. The job requires physical fitness, certifications, and the ability to work in challenging environments.

What is the job of a boatswain?

A boatswain is a senior crew member responsible for the maintenance, supervision, and safety of a ship's deck operations. They oversee tasks such as rigging, mooring, and cargo handling, and often supervise other deck crew members. The role requires knowledge of maritime safety protocols and may involve certifications like STCW.

What are boatswains?

Boatswains, often pronounced 'bosun,' are senior crew members on a ship responsible for the maintenance of the vessel and supervision of the deck crew. Their duties include overseeing the repair and upkeep of the ship's equipment, managing cargo operations, and ensuring that safety procedures are followed on deck. Boatswains play a critical role in daily ship operations and often act as a key link between the officers and the deckhands.

What is a boatswain's salary?

A boatswain's salary varies depending on experience, location, and the type of vessel, but typically ranges from $40,000 to $80,000 annually. Experienced boatswains working on large ships or in specialized roles can earn higher wages, often supplemented by overtime and benefits. Certification and maritime experience are important factors influencing pay.

What are some common challenges faced by a Boatswain when managing deck operations on a vessel?

Boatswains often face the challenge of coordinating a diverse deck crew while ensuring all maintenance and operational tasks are performed safely and efficiently, especially under tight schedules or adverse weather conditions. They must communicate clearly with both the crew and officers, prioritize tasks, and adapt plans quickly in response to changing situations at sea. Attention to detail and strong leadership are essential for addressing these challenges, as the safety and performance of deck operations directly impact the vessel's overall success.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Boatswain, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Boatswain, you need strong seamanship, knowledge of deck operations, and experience in supervising and training crew, typically gained through maritime training and certifications like STCW. Familiarity with navigation systems, deck machinery, safety equipment, and maintenance tools is essential. Leadership, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for coordinating tasks and ensuring safety. These competencies are vital for maintaining vessel operations, crew safety, and efficient workflow onboard.

What is the difference between Boatswain vs Deckhand?

AspectBoatswainDeckhand
CertificationsSTCW Basic Safety, Deckhand certifications often requiredSTCW Basic Safety, sometimes additional certifications
Work EnvironmentLead crew member on deck, supervises deck operationsAssist with deck duties, support Boatswain
ResponsibilitiesSupervises deck crew, maintenance, safetyCleaning, maintenance, assisting deck team
Industry UsageCommon on commercial and large recreational vesselsFound on various vessels, often entry-level

The Boatswain is a supervisory role with leadership responsibilities on deck, overseeing maintenance and safety, while a Deckhand performs hands-on support tasks. Both roles require safety certifications, but the Boatswain typically has more experience and authority on the vessel.

More about Boatswain jobs
Infographic showing various Boatswain job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $65,588 per year, or $31.5 per hour.

$22 - $24.75/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 26 days ago


United States Coast Guard rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 34 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

32nd of 49 rated military and defense


Job description

Are You...
  • Comfortable as a leader?
  • Attentive to detail?
  • Excited to operate small boats?
  • Interested in law enforcement?

Skills You'll Learn
Boat operations
Seamanship and navigation
Leadership
Training You'll Get
  • BMs receive a 14-week rating course in Yorktown, VA, with instruction in seamanship and navigation.
  • Advanced maritime navigation training and tactical law enforcement training.
  • Both full-time and part-time Coast Guard-funded educational opportunities that lead to an associate degree, bachelor's degree, or higher may be available.

Related Civilian Jobs
  • Captain, Mate, or Pilot of Water Vessels
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  • Schedule Development or Personnel Management Specialist

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About United States Coast Guard

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The United States Coast Guard (USCG) is a branch of the United States Armed Forces situated in Washington, DC, US. As part of its key mission, it is responsible for ensuring maritime safety, security, and stewardship. Founded on August 4, 1790, it is one of the country's oldest organizations in continuous service. The USCG offers a service portfolio that includes maritime law enforcement, mariner assistance, maritime environmental protection, and defense readiness. The USCG's core values include Honor, Respect, and Devotion to Duty. The mission statement of the USCG is to protect the maritime interests of the United States and ensure the nation's maritime economy.

Industry

National security and international affairs

Headquarters location

Washington, DC, US