ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Deck Watch Officer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Chevron

Able Bodied Seaman

San Ramon, CA · On-site

Assists the Deck Officer on watch during loading and discharging operations, performing all functions and other such duties that may arise. * Performs maintenance and other seaman's duties required ...

Chevron

Able Bodied Seaman

San Ramon, CA

Assists the Deck Officer on watch during loading and discharging operations, performing all functions and other such duties that may arise. * Performs maintenance and other seaman's duties required ...

ssc

Cargo Mate - Marine

Savannah, GA

The Cargo 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 ...

ssc

Cargo Chief Mate - Marine

Savannah, GA

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 ...

Savage

Cargo Mate - Marine

New York, NY · On-site

The Cargo 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 ...

Savage

Cargo Chief Mate - Marine

Boston, MA · On-site

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 ...

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 ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsDeck Watch Officer Jobs

Deck Watch Officer information

See salary details

$32.5K

$62.1K

$103.5K

How much do deck watch officer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 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 are Deck Watch Officers?

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 is the hardest job to get in the Coast Guard?

The hardest job to get in the Coast Guard is often considered to be the cutterman or specialized operational roles, which require extensive training, certifications, and proven skills. These positions are highly competitive due to their demanding nature, including long deployments and complex responsibilities. Success typically depends on experience, physical fitness, and passing rigorous assessments.

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.

What does a deck watch officer do?

A deck watch officer is responsible for the safe navigation and operation of a vessel during their watch, including monitoring instruments, maintaining lookout, and ensuring compliance with safety procedures. They often work in shifts, use navigational tools like charts and radar, and must hold relevant certifications such as a Merchant Mariner Credential. Their duties are essential for safe vessel movement and collision avoidance.

How much do watch officers make?

Watch officers, also known as deck officers or navigation officers, typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, certification level, and the size of the vessel. Entry-level officers usually start at lower salaries, while experienced officers with advanced certifications can earn higher wages, often supplemented by overtime and benefits.

How much does a deck watch officer make?

A deck watch officer typically earns between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, certification level, and the size of the vessel. Salaries can vary based on the employer, location, and whether the officer is working on commercial or passenger ships. Additional benefits may include overtime pay and allowances for certifications such as STCW.

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.
More about Deck Watch Officer jobs
What cities are hiring for Deck Watch Officer jobs? Cities with the most Deck Watch Officer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Deck Watch Officer jobs? The most popular types of Deck Watch Officer jobs are:
What states have the most Deck Watch Officer jobs? States with the most job openings for Deck Watch Officer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Deck Watch Officer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Deck Watch Officer jobs are:
Deck Watch Officer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Deck Watch Officer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,148 per year, or $29.9 per hour.
Able Bodied Seaman

Able Bodied Seaman

Chevron

San Ramon, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Chevron rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 218 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

68th of 86 rated oil and gas companies

Job description

Responsible for the safe navigation of the ships and safe cargo handling operations.
Chevron USA - Marine is accepting online applications for the position of Able Bodied Seaman located on one of their US Flag fleet of vessels through July 29th, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. (PST).
Chevron is one of the world's leading energy companies, with approximately 60,000 employees working in countries around the world. We explore, produce and transport crude oil and natural gas; refine, market, and distribute fuels and other energy products; manufacture and sell petrochemical products; generate power, and develop future energy resources, including biofuels and geothermal energy.
Overview:
The Sailors' Union of the Pacific represents all unlicensed personnel employed on the Company's US Flag seagoing vessels.
You must hold a current USCG Merchant Mariner Credentials, STCW 95 endorsements, valid USCG/STCW medical certificate, valid passport, Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) and must have STCW endorsement for Basic Oil Tanker Cargo Operations (Tankerman Assist) or Advanced Oil Tanker Cargo Operations (Tankerman PIC) prior to joining if selected.
The general guideline for vessel assignment length is 90 days for unlicensed personnel. Vacation will accrue at 25 days for each 30 days of work.
Routine Duties:
  • Performs "Helmsman" duties as required receiving direct verbal orders on steering directions or courses from the Deck Watch Officer, Master, Pilot or Mooring Master and manually manipulating the vessel's wheel.
  • Stands at sea "Lookout" watches as required.
  • Stands "Hose" and "Gangway" watch while in port ensuring that hose pressures do not exceed authorized allowances and that no leakage occurs during the transfer of cargo; keeps a continuous lookout to prevent unauthorized personnel from boarding the vessel and ensures that the gangway is always properly rigged.
  • Stands cargo watch communicating gauge tape readings to watch officer and assist with turning of cargo valves.
  • Assists the Deck Officer on watch during loading and discharging operations, performing all functions and other such duties that may arise.
  • Performs maintenance and other seaman's duties required on deck, under the direction of the Bosun or Chief Mate.

Safety:
  • Active and positive participant in monthly safety meeting.
  • Points out unsafe acts or conditions to everyone on board.
  • Stops work if unsafe conditions or practices are uncovered.
  • Able to participate in an Emergency Response team.

Teamwork/Working with Others:
  • Effective in relating to others
  • Willing to assist others.
  • Works well under pressure.
  • Maintains an appropriate demeanor and appearance.

Pre-employment screening consists of:
  • DOT drug testing & Non-DOT hair drug test
  • Background check
  • Physical Fitness for Duty examination
  • Functional capacity evaluation

Required Qualifications:
  • Current USCG Merchant Mariner document
  • STCW 95 endorsements: Basic Training, VPDSD, must have Basic Oil Tanker Cargo Operations or Advanced Oil Tanker Cargo Operations prior to joining if selected.
  • Must have National Endorsement: Tankerman Assist or Tankerman PIC prior to joining if selected.
  • Valid USCG/STCW Medical Certificate
  • Valid Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC)
  • Valid Passport

Relocation Options:
Relocation will not be considered.
Expatriate assignments will not be considered.
Chevron regrets that it is unable to sponsor employment Visas or consider individuals on time-limited Visa status for this position.
Important Information
  • The compensation for this role is listed on this posting in compliance with applicable law. The selected candidate's compensation will be determined based on his or her skills, experience, and qualifications. Please note that the compensation listed below are only applicable to successful candidates who are hired onto local United States payroll.
  • The anticipated hourly rate for this position is $ 26.40

U.S. Regulatory notice:
Chevron is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religious creed, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin or ancestry, age, mental or physical disability, medical condition, reproductive health decision-making, military or veteran status, political preference, marital status, citizenship, genetic information or other characteristics protected by applicable law.
We are committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities. If you need assistance or an accommodation, please email us at emplymnt@chevron.com.
Chevron participates in E-Verify in certain locations as required by law.

What Chevron employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Chevron logo

About Chevron

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Chevron is one of the world's leading integrated energy companies. We believe affordable, reliable and ever-cleaner energy is essential to achieving a more prosperous and sustainable world. Chevron produces crude oil and natural gas; manufactures transportation fuels, lubricants, petrochemicals and additives; and develops technologies that enhance our business and the industry. We are focused on lowering the carbon intensity in our operations and seeking to grow lower carbon businesses along with our traditional business lines. More information about Chevron is available at www.chevron.com.

Industry

Oil and coal products manufacturing, civic and social organizations and oil and gas extraction

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Ramon, CA, US

Social media

FacebookTwitter

View All Chevron Jobs

Apply