As an Aviation Boatswain's Mate - Aircraft Handling (ABH), you ensure smooth launch and recovery operations by carefully directing the movement of all aircraft. Supervise every turn, tow and park ...
As an Aviation Boatswain's Mate - Aircraft Handling (ABH), you ensure smooth launch and recovery operations by carefully directing the movement of all aircraft. Supervise every turn, tow and park ...
As an Aviation Boatswain's Mate - Aircraft Handling (ABH), you ensure smooth launch and recovery operations by carefully directing the movement of all aircraft. Supervise every turn, tow and park ...
As an Aviation Boatswain's Mate - Aircraft Handling (ABH), you ensure smooth launch and recovery operations by carefully directing the movement of all aircraft. Supervise every turn, tow and park ...
As an Aviation Boatswain's Mate - Aircraft Handling (ABH), you ensure smooth launch and recovery operations by carefully directing the movement of all aircraft. Supervise every turn, tow and park ...
As an Aviation Boatswain's Mate - Aircraft Handling (ABH), you ensure smooth launch and recovery operations by carefully directing the movement of all aircraft. Supervise every turn, tow and park ...
As an Aviation Boatswain's Mate - Aircraft Handling (ABH), you ensure smooth launch and recovery operations by carefully directing the movement of all aircraft. Supervise every turn, tow and park ...
As an Aviation Boatswain's Mate - Aircraft Handling (ABH), you ensure smooth launch and recovery operations by carefully directing the movement of all aircraft. Supervise every turn, tow and park ...
As an Aviation Boatswain's Mate - Aircraft Handling (ABH), you ensure smooth launch and recovery operations by carefully directing the movement of all aircraft. Supervise every turn, tow and park ...
As an Aviation Boatswain's Mate - Aircraft Handling (ABH), you ensure smooth launch and recovery operations by carefully directing the movement of all aircraft. Supervise every turn, tow and park ...
As an Aviation Boatswain's Mate - Aircraft Handling (ABH), you ensure smooth launch and recovery operations by carefully directing the movement of all aircraft. Supervise every turn, tow and park ...
As an Aviation Boatswain's Mate - Aircraft Handling (ABH), you ensure smooth launch and recovery operations by carefully directing the movement of all aircraft. Supervise every turn, tow and park ...
As an Aviation Boatswain's Mate - Aircraft Handling (ABH), you ensure smooth launch and recovery operations by carefully directing the movement of all aircraft. Supervise every turn, tow and park ...
As an Aviation Boatswain's Mate - Aircraft Handling (ABH), you ensure smooth launch and recovery operations by carefully directing the movement of all aircraft. Supervise every turn, tow and park ...
As an Aviation Boatswain's Mate - Aircraft Handling (ABH), you ensure smooth launch and recovery operations by carefully directing the movement of all aircraft. Supervise every turn, tow and park ...
As an Aviation Boatswain's Mate - Aircraft Handling (ABH), you ensure smooth launch and recovery operations by carefully directing the movement of all aircraft. Supervise every turn, tow and park ...
As an Aviation Boatswain's Mate - Aircraft Handling (ABH), you ensure smooth launch and recovery operations by carefully directing the movement of all aircraft. Supervise every turn, tow and park ...
As an Aviation Boatswain's Mate - Aircraft Handling (ABH), you ensure smooth launch and recovery operations by carefully directing the movement of all aircraft. Supervise every turn, tow and park ...
As an Aviation Boatswain's Mate - Aircraft Handling (ABH), you ensure smooth launch and recovery operations by carefully directing the movement of all aircraft. Supervise every turn, tow and park ...
As an Aviation Boatswain's Mate - Aircraft Handling (ABH), you ensure smooth launch and recovery operations by carefully directing the movement of all aircraft. Supervise every turn, tow and park ...
As an Aviation Boatswain's Mate - Aircraft Handling (ABH), you ensure smooth launch and recovery operations by carefully directing the movement of all aircraft. Supervise every turn, tow and park ...
As an Aviation Boatswain's Mate - Aircraft Handling (ABH), you ensure smooth launch and recovery operations by carefully directing the movement of all aircraft. Supervise every turn, tow and park ...
As an Aviation Boatswain's Mate - Aircraft Handling (ABH), you ensure smooth launch and recovery operations by carefully directing the movement of all aircraft. Supervise every turn, tow and park ...
As an Aviation Boatswain's Mate - Aircraft Handling (ABH), you ensure smooth launch and recovery operations by carefully directing the movement of all aircraft. Supervise every turn, tow and park ...
As an Aviation Boatswain's Mate - Aircraft Handling (ABH), you ensure smooth launch and recovery operations by carefully directing the movement of all aircraft. Supervise every turn, tow and park ...
As an Aviation Boatswain's Mate - Aircraft Handling (ABH), you ensure smooth launch and recovery operations by carefully directing the movement of all aircraft. Supervise every turn, tow and park ...
As an Aviation Boatswain's Mate - Aircraft Handling (ABH), you ensure smooth launch and recovery operations by carefully directing the movement of all aircraft. Supervise every turn, tow and park ...
As an Aviation Boatswain's Mate - Aircraft Handling (ABH), you ensure smooth launch and recovery operations by carefully directing the movement of all aircraft. Supervise every turn, tow and park ...
As an Aviation Boatswain's Mate - Aircraft Handling (ABH), you ensure smooth launch and recovery operations by carefully directing the movement of all aircraft. Supervise every turn, tow and park ...
As an Aviation Boatswain's Mate - Aircraft Handling (ABH), you ensure smooth launch and recovery operations by carefully directing the movement of all aircraft. Supervise every turn, tow and park ...
As an Aviation Boatswain's Mate - Aircraft Handling (ABH), you ensure smooth launch and recovery operations by carefully directing the movement of all aircraft. Supervise every turn, tow and park ...
As an Aviation Boatswain's Mate - Aircraft Handling (ABH), you ensure smooth launch and recovery operations by carefully directing the movement of all aircraft. Supervise every turn, tow and park ...
As an Aviation Boatswain's Mate - Aircraft Handling (ABH), you ensure smooth launch and recovery operations by carefully directing the movement of all aircraft. Supervise every turn, tow and park ...
As an Aviation Boatswain's Mate - Aircraft Handling (ABH), you ensure smooth launch and recovery operations by carefully directing the movement of all aircraft. Supervise every turn, tow and park ...
As an Aviation Boatswain's Mate - Aircraft Handling (ABH), you ensure smooth launch and recovery operations by carefully directing the movement of all aircraft. Supervise every turn, tow and park ...
As an Aviation Boatswain's Mate - Aircraft Handling (ABH), you ensure smooth launch and recovery operations by carefully directing the movement of all aircraft. Supervise every turn, tow and park ...
As an Aviation Boatswain's Mate - Aircraft Handling (ABH), you ensure smooth launch and recovery operations by carefully directing the movement of all aircraft. Supervise every turn, tow and park ...
As an Aviation Boatswain's Mate - Aircraft Handling (ABH), you ensure smooth launch and recovery operations by carefully directing the movement of all aircraft. Supervise every turn, tow and park ...
As an Aviation Boatswain's Mate - Aircraft Handling (ABH), you ensure smooth launch and recovery operations by carefully directing the movement of all aircraft. Supervise every turn, tow and park ...
As an Aviation Boatswain's Mate - Aircraft Handling (ABH), you ensure smooth launch and recovery operations by carefully directing the movement of all aircraft. Supervise every turn, tow and park ...
Boatswain information
See salary details
$11K - $17.8K
0% of jobs
$17.8K - $24.5K
0% of jobs
$24.5K - $31.3K
0% of jobs
$31.3K - $38.1K
0% of jobs
$38.1K - $44.9K
0% of jobs
$47.6K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$44.9K - $51.6K
63% of jobs
$51.6K - $58.4K
0% of jobs
$58.4K - $65.2K
0% of jobs
$65.2K - $72K
0% of jobs
$72K - $78.7K
0% of jobs
$81K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$78.7K - $85.5K
37% of jobs
$11K
$65.6K
$85.5K
How much do boatswain jobs pay per year?
As of Sep 12, 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.
What is a boatswain?
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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a boatswain?
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 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 is the difference between Boatswain vs Deckhand?
| Aspect | Boatswain | Deckhand |
|---|---|---|
| Certifications | STCW Basic Safety, Deckhand certifications often required | STCW Basic Safety, sometimes additional certifications |
| Work Environment | Lead crew member on deck, supervises deck operations | Assist with deck duties, support Boatswain |
| Responsibilities | Supervises deck crew, maintenance, safety | Cleaning, maintenance, assisting deck team |
| Industry Usage | Common on commercial and large recreational vessels | Found 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.
How much does a boatswain make?
A boatswain's salary varies depending on experience, location, and the employer, but typically ranges from $40,000 to $70,000 annually. Experienced boatswains working on large vessels or in specialized environments can earn higher wages, often supplemented by overtime and benefits.
Is boatswain's mate a good job?
A 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, but requires physical fitness, teamwork, and adherence to strict schedules. The job can be rewarding for those interested in maritime work and naval careers.
More about Boatswain jobs
Who are the top companies hiring for Boatswain jobs?
The top employers for Boatswain jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Boatswain jobs?
For Boatswain jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
AVIATION BOATSWAINS MATE, AIRCRAFT HANDLING
Independence, MO
U.S. Navy
• National Security • 10K+ employees10,000+ employees
Part-time
Medical, Retirement
Re-posted 22 days ago
United States Navy rating
6.4
Based on 381 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
Job description
Modern aircraft carriers are capable of launching aircraft every 20 seconds. That means the flight deck can get pretty busy, so solid management and communication are essential to preventing chaos. As an Aviation Boatswain’s Mate – Aircraft Handling (ABH), you ensure smooth launch and recovery operations by carefully directing the movement of all aircraft. Supervise every turn, tow and park, and secure them to the deck. Wherever they go, you’ll be the guide.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Aviation Boatswain’s Mate – Aircraft Handling (ABH) Sailors supervise the movement of Naval aircraft and perform rescue duties when necessary. In this role, specific responsibilities may include:
- Assisting with the launch and recovery of aircraft
- Spotting and securing aircraft and equipment
- Performing crash rescue and crash removal duties in connection with aircraft launch and recovery
- Firefighting and damage control duties
- Operating and maintaining ground-handling equipment used for moving and hoisting aircraft
WORK ENVIRONMENT
- Most of the work in this rating is performed outdoors on the flight decks of amphibious and aircraft carriers, in all climates and conditions, including hazardous environments. The work is fast-paced and ABHs typically work closely with others in aviation ratings. You will not spend your entire career at sea; you may also work with an aircraft squadron during a shore duty rotation.
QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS
- U.S. citizen or equivalent
- High school graduate or equivalent
- 17 years of age or older
PAY AND BENEFITS
From the day you start, you’ll receive:
- Competitive salary
- Potential to earn a bonus upon enlistment
- Free health insurance
- Free housing
- A retirement plan
- Paid training
EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES
- Navy College Program and Tuition Assistance
- Post-9/11 GI Bill, up to 100% tuition
- Professional credentials and certifications
- College credit hours toward a bachelor’s or associate degree through the American Council on Education
PART-TIME OPPORTUNITIES
- Serving part-time as a Navy Reserve Sailor, your duties will be carried out during your scheduled drilling and training periods. During monthly drilling, Aviation Boatswain’s Mates in the Navy Reserve typically work at a location close to their homes.
- For annual training, you may serve anywhere in the world, including locations in the U.S., at bases overseas, or in areas where humanitarian needs are great.
What United States Navy employees say
Pay
Benefits
Hours and flexibility
Workplace
Get the full story on Breakroom
About US Navy
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
National security, national security and international affairs, public safety statistics centers and offices, guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing and public administration
Company size
10,000+ Employees
Headquarters location
Washington, DC, US