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Deck Watch Officer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ssc

Cargo Chief Mate - Marine

Savannah, GA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

The Cargo Chief Mate is primarily responsible for conducting cargo operations, oversee deck hands, perform and supervise deck maintenance duties, and stand a navigational watch (Officer in Charge of ...

ssc

Mate, 2nd - Marine

Boston, MA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

The Mate is primarily responsible for conducting cargo operations, oversee deck hands, perform and supervise deck maintenance duties, and stand a navigational watch (Officer in Charge of a ...

TMMG

(C) Marine Gas Turbine Inspector (MGTI)

San Diego, CA · On-site

$90K - $95K/yr

RATT provides proficient subject matter experts to conduct Sailor centric deck-plate training ... Extensive experience as shipboard Engineering Officer of the Watch (EOOW) on multiple Gas Turbine ...

Interlake Steamship Company

QMED

Cleveland, OH · On-site

... machinery, deck/cargo equipment, and bunkering/fueling in a safe, efficient manner. Primary ... Watch Officer on duty, typically including: * Assisting the Engineering Department in the ...

Positions at Sea - UnCruise Adventures

Chief Mate

Juneau, AK · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

Maintain deck supply inventories and requisitions. * Act as vessel security officer. * Prepare vessel for and attend all U.S. Coast Guard annual dry docks and inspections. * Review and update watch ...

Savage

Mate, 2nd - Marine

Tampa, FL · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Mate is primarily responsible for conducting cargo operations, oversee deck hands, perform and supervise deck maintenance duties, and stand a navigational watch (Officer in Charge of a ...

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Deck Watch Officer information

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$32.5K

$62.1K

$103.5K

How much do deck watch officer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for deck watch officer in the United States is $62,148.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,500.00 and $74,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a deck watch officer?

Deck Watch Officers are licensed officers on a ship who are responsible for overseeing the safe navigation and operation of the vessel during their assigned watch periods. They ensure that the ship follows its planned course, maintain a lookout for hazards, and implement safety procedures. Deck Watch Officers also supervise crew members on watch, manage communications with other vessels and ports, and respond to emergencies. Their role is critical in maintaining the safety, security, and efficiency of ship operations while at sea and in port.

What are the main challenges a deck watch officer faces during a typical watch, and how can these be managed effectively?

A Deck Watch Officer is often responsible for navigating the vessel safely, maintaining situational awareness, and managing the bridge team, all while adhering to strict regulations and company procedures. Common challenges include dealing with adverse weather, heavy traffic in busy shipping lanes, and ensuring clear communication among multinational crew members. Effective management involves staying vigilant, using navigational aids proficiently, delegating tasks appropriately, and fostering open communication to prevent misunderstandings. Regular training and thorough pre-watch briefings can also help mitigate risks and ensure smooth operations.

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

To thrive as a Deck Watch Officer, you need a solid understanding of navigation, seamanship, maritime regulations, and typically hold a relevant maritime officer’s license. Familiarity with electronic navigation systems, radar, GPS, and communication equipment is essential, along with certifications like STCW. Strong leadership, situational awareness, and decision-making skills are crucial for maintaining safety and efficient operations on watch. These competencies ensure the safe navigation of vessels, compliance with regulations, and effective management of crew and emergencies at sea.

What is the difference between Deck Watch Officer vs Deck Cadet?

AspectDeck Watch OfficerDeck Cadet
CertificationsSTCW Basic Safety, Bridge WatchkeepingSTCW Basic Safety, Training Courses
Work EnvironmentBridge of commercial ships, responsible for navigation and safetyTraining onboard, assisting officers, learning navigation
Employer & IndustryShipping companies, maritime industryMaritime academies, shipping companies during training

The Deck Watch Officer is a licensed professional responsible for navigation and safety on the bridge, while a Deck Cadet is a trainee gaining practical experience. The Deck Watch Officer holds specific certifications and has full responsibility during watchkeeping, whereas the Deck Cadet is in training to become a licensed officer. Both roles are essential in maritime operations, with the cadet pathway leading to the deck watch officer position.

How much does a deck watch officer make?

A deck watch officer's salary typically ranges from $50,000 to $80,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and the size of the vessel. They are responsible for navigation, safety, and watchkeeping duties on ships, often working in shifts that require maritime certifications such as STCW. Salaries can increase with seniority and additional responsibilities.

How to get a job as a deck watch officer?

To become a deck watch officer, candidates typically need a maritime license such as a Third Mate or higher, which requires completing maritime training, gaining sea time experience, and passing certification exams. Relevant skills include navigation, safety procedures, and communication, and employment often involves working on ships or maritime vessels with a focus on safety and watchkeeping duties.
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Deck Watch Officer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Deck Watch Officer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,148 per year, or $29.9 per hour.

Licensed Deck Officers, Relief

American Steamship Company

Williamsville, NY

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago

Job description

Description

American Steamship Company has a long and rich history of sailing ships on the Great Lakes since 1907. We currently operate six 1,000-foot US Flag vessels that carry cargoes of iron ore, coal and stone throughout Lakes Superior, Michigan, Huron and Erie to our customers' steel mills, electrical generation plants, and stone distribution docks in the U.S. and Canada. Our fleet operates from late March until mid-January. If you desire to sail with a high-functioning group of career employees as part of our Deck or Engineering teams, whose primary goal is the safety of all our employees, along with doing no harm to the environment, and to provide our customers with exceptional service, you will enjoy a career with us!


American Steamship Company (ASC) is always interested in connecting with qualified mariners who want to build their career on the Great Lakes. While we do not have active job openings at this time, we anticipate needs for Able Seamen, QMEDs, Mates, and Engineers during upcoming sailing seasons.

By submitting your information here, you will be considered for future opportunities as they arise. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and candidates may be contacted once positions open.

Benefits

  • Competitive wages with overtime opportunities
  • We pay for your travel to and from the vessel from your home anywhere in the United States
  • Paid vacation
  • Excellent Health and Retirement Benefits
  • Excellent safety record
  • We provide opportunities and education to support your career growth with Company sponsored training 

Responsibilities

  • Follow safe work procedures
  • Follow environmental policies and procedures
  • Stand deck watch while the vessel is underway
  • Manage cargo operations and maintenance & repair throughout the ship 
  • Other duties as assigned

American Steamship Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer - All qualified applications will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, marital status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, nationality or sex, marital status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by United States law.


To be considered an applicant you must apply to the open posted position directly. Please, no phone calls or emails.


Requirements

  • Great Lakes pilotage preferred but not required 
  • US Coast Guard Merchant Mariners Credential (MMC) licensed as a Licensed Mate, Unlimited Tonnage 
  • US Dept of Homeland Security Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC Card)
  • Current passport or enhanced driver's license and eligible for entry into Canada
  • Legally authorized to work in the United States, without restriction
  • Satisfactorily pass a pre-employment physical for work 
  • Excellent communication skills and ability to multi-task
  • Ability and desire to put safety first 
  • Experience working as part of a team and desire to be a team player
  • Desire to achieve our goals of keeping everyone safe, doing no harm to the environment, and providing superior customer service.

Apply