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Commercial Fishing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Marine Biologist (ASM) - Gloucester, Ma

Gloucester, MA · On-site

$19 - $23.57/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • PTO

Commercial fishing dates back hundreds of years. Today commercial fishing continues to be possible due to cooperation between fishermen and fisheries management scientists like yourself. In order to ...

Marine Biologist - Alaska

Anchorage, AK · On-site

$5.1K - $8.1K/mo

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

Commercial fishing dates back hundreds of years. Today, commercial fishing is possible due to cooperation between the fishing industry and fisheries scientists like you. Marine Biologists provide ...

Vessel Manager

San Diego, CA · On-site

$18K - $21K/mo

  • Medical

  • Dental

Applicant must have a current US Master License (USCG) for Fishing Vessel, 1500 GRT. Master would be employed and live on a large commercial tuna purse seiner vessel for 45 to 70 days. The vessel ...

Showing results 41-60

Commercial Fishing information

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$11

$23

$44

How much do commercial fishing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for commercial fishing in the United States is $23.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $25.48 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a commercial fishing job?

Commercial fishing jobs involve harvesting fish and other seafood from oceans, rivers, and lakes for commercial sale and distribution. Workers in this industry operate boats, cast nets or lines, and handle equipment to catch fish, crab, shrimp, and other seafood. These jobs can be physically demanding and often require working long hours in challenging weather conditions. Commercial fishing is essential for supplying seafood to markets and restaurants around the world.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a commercial fisher?

To thrive as a Commercial Fisher, you need knowledge of fishing techniques, vessel operation, and safety procedures, often supported by completion of safety training and relevant licenses. Familiarity with navigation systems, fish-finding sonar, and equipment maintenance is typically required. Strong teamwork, physical endurance, and problem-solving skills help individuals succeed in unpredictable and challenging environments. These abilities are crucial for ensuring safety, maximizing catch efficiency, and adapting to the demanding conditions of commercial fishing.

What are common challenges faced by commercial fishing crews, and how can new hires prepare for them?

Commercial fishing crews often encounter physically demanding work, long hours, and unpredictable weather conditions at sea. New hires should be prepared for extended periods away from home and irregular schedules, especially during peak seasons. Building physical stamina, learning safety protocols, and developing strong teamwork skills are essential for success. Many crews foster a tight-knit environment, so adaptability and good communication will help new members integrate smoothly and handle the challenges of the job.

What is the difference between Commercial Fishing vs Marine Biologist?

AspectCommercial FishingMarine Biologist
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; specialized training or certifications often preferredBachelor's degree in Marine Biology or related field; advanced degrees for research roles
Work EnvironmentOn boats, in open water, often remote and physically demandingLaboratories, research vessels, or field sites; more controlled environment
Industry UsageFishing companies, seafood industry, maritime sectorsResearch institutions, environmental agencies, academia

Commercial fishing involves harvesting seafood from oceans and lakes, focusing on catching fish and other marine life for commercial sale. Marine biologists study marine organisms and ecosystems, often conducting research and conservation efforts. While both roles relate to the ocean, commercial fishing is primarily about harvesting, whereas marine biology emphasizes scientific understanding and preservation.

Do commercial fishermen make good money?

Commercial fishermen can earn a wide range of incomes depending on factors such as location, target species, experience, and the season. While some may earn a substantial income, others may have lower earnings due to market fluctuations and the physically demanding nature of the work. Overall, income levels vary significantly within the industry.

What cities are hiring for Commercial Fishing jobs?

Cities with the most Commercial Fishing job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Commercial Fishing jobs?

The most popular types of Commercial Fishing jobs are:

What states have the most Commercial Fishing jobs?

States with the most job openings for Commercial Fishing jobs include:

Infographic showing various Commercial Fishing job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 5% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,577 per year, or $23.8 per hour.

Licensed Marine Engineer - Fishing Vessel

United States Seafoods LLC

Dutch Harbor, AK

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

Description

United States Seafoods is a Commercial Fishing Company with factory trawlers out of Alaska. We are looking for entry level and experienced crew members to work on board our vessels. We are looking for full-time, long-term employees who are willing to work a rotating schedule throughout the year. 

United States Seafoods is currently recruiting for a qualified Licensed Marine Engineer to work on one of our trawlers. A qualified Engineer should have Minimum of 3 years of marine engineering experience working onboard fishing vessels, and hold a USCG Engineer of Uninspected Fishing Vessel or greater.  


United States Seafoods fishes from January to November. Total crew size is 50 -70 crewmembers. Key crew work on a rotational schedule with roughly 60 days on/60 days off.  


A Licensed Engineer will -

  • Communicate daily with the Master, Office, and Counterpart
  • Carryout all orders, requests and duties as assigned
  • Perform maintenance and upkeep of all vessel equipment, including main propulsion, electrical generations, refrigeration plant, and hydraulics
  • Operate, monitor, and evaluate engine performance, delivering clear, concise and timely reports of any equipment failure or damage and propose how to remedy such failure or damage
  • Report all unsafe or un-seaworthy conditions to the Master
  • Assist in maintenance and repair of all fishing and factory equipment, including refrigeration when needed to ensure the factory is running and maintained
  • Directly Supervise and develop engine room personnel and support the factory technician, ensuring factory crew has the infrastructure for quality production 
  • Plan and coordinate use of manpower, material and equipment to ensure efficient maintenance of shipboard equipment, including overseeing inventory and organization of parts and storage

Requirements

  • Minimum of 3 years of experience working onboard fishing vessels
  • USCG Chief Engineer of Uninspected Fishing Vessel or greater or DDE
  • Must be available for the full contract period (Approx. up to 90 days)
  • Adhere to the positions rotation schedule to ensure proper coverage


*Compensation is Competitive and based on experience



EEO Policy - 

The Company's equal employment opportunity policy prohibits unlawful discrimination with respect to race, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, age, color, religion, creed, national origin, disability, veteran or other status protected by applicable law. 


EOE/Minorities/Females/Vet/DisabilityÂ