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Deck Watch Officer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

STCW * II/1: Officer in Charge of a Navigational Watch * II/4: Rating Forming Part of a Navigational Watch * II/5: Able Seafarer- Deck * IV/2: GMDSS Operator * VI/1: Basic Safety Training * VI/2: ...

Directly supervises up to four (4) Able Seamen (ABs) during assigned watches and deck evolutions. * Serves as the Officer in Charge of the Navigational Watch (OICNW) while underway, exercising ...

Directly supervises up to four (4) Able Seamen (ABs) during assigned watches and deck evolutions. * Serves as the Officer in Charge of the Navigational Watch (OICNW) while underway, exercising ...

Directly supervises up to four (4) Able Seamen (ABs) during assigned watches and deck evolutions. * Serves as the Officer in Charge of the Navigational Watch (OICNW) while underway, exercising ...

Showing results 21-40

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 9, 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 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 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 certification, which requires completing maritime training, gaining sea time experience, and passing relevant exams. Prior experience on ships and knowledge of navigation, safety procedures, and maritime regulations are also essential. Many positions require a valid medical certificate and adherence to international maritime standards.

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 onboard ships, often working in shifts that require maritime training and licensing.

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:
Infographic showing various Deck Watch Officer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% 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.

Lead Diesel Engine Inspector (Navy RATT)

THOR Solutions, LLC

San Diego, CA • On-site

$90K - $105K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

THOR Solutions is seeking an experienced Lead Diesel Engine Inspector (DEI) to support the Navy Readiness Assistance Training Team (RATT) for Commander, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet (CNSP) in San Diego, CA. RATT is a Type Commander (TYCOM) asset employed to provide timely direct support to ships, tailored to the ship's needs and requirements. RATT ship visits are intended to significantly enhance a ship's organic proficiency and capabilities for a discrete period of time as added capability to conduct training, and address material issues. RATT provides proficient subject matter experts to conduct Sailor centric deck-plate training, material review, program auditing, and naval readiness support to enhance overall proficiency and material readiness through recommendations to the ship and staff to enhance CNSP ship's readiness to conduct sustained operations at sea in support of the nation's strategic objectives.
An ideal candidate has at least two tours as a Navy Diesel Engine Inspector with Navy surface ship maintenance processes, qualifications and certification as or equivalent to a Navy DEI, as well as significant experience with diesel engine propulsion systems as an Engineering Officer of the Watch, Propulsion Plan Watch Officer, Chief Engineer, or equivalent.
 
This position is contingent upon contract award, anticipated for October 2026.
Typical Responsibilities. This position’s responsibilities include (but are not limited to): 
  • Coordinate, schedule, and conduct ship training visits for the purpose of improving Sailor proficiency in the operation and maintenance of ships systems through targeted training and aiding ship's leadership in assessing material condition and readiness program efficacy.
  • Compile, curate, develop, and provide training resources (references and curriculum) for ship systems, required programs, technical watchstanding, installed equipment, and maintenance management for use in classroom and deckplate training for ship's force and RATT personnel.
  • Teach and reinforce sound shipboard operating principles and processes through leadership by example and deckplate training.
  • Conduct comprehensive material condition assessments for installed equipment, portable equipment, safety gear, ship systems, and ship structure.
  • Review and assess ship's preventive and corrective maintenance and operating processes and procedures for ship systems, installed equipment, and associated evolutions.
  • Advise ship's leadership regarding crew proficiency, material condition, maintenance practices, and required program efficacy.

Primary Work Location: Full time onsite in San Diego, CA. A candidate located in Everett, WA or Pearl Habor, HI is less ideal but may be considered.
Anticipated Travel:
  • This position involves up to 35% travel, including travel to overseas/OCONUS locations, in accordance with Joint Travel Regulations (JTR).
  • Common travel destinations include, but are not limited to: Everett, WA; Pearl Harbor, HI; Sasebo, Japan; Yokosuka, Japan; and Singapore.

Typical Physical Activity:
  • Mix of desk/computer work in an office environment and hands-on technical or instructor work in a waterfront/shipboard environment.
  • May involve: repetitive motion, talking, traversing shipboard environments (e.g., tight or confined spaces, ladders, hatches), or vision.
  • Must be physically able to climb up/down a pilot’s ladder to board a naval vessel underway at sea and stay onboard on a U.S. Naval vessel.
 
Typical Pay Range: The anticipated pay range for this position in the identified location(s) is $90,000 – 105,000/year. Actual compensation offered will be based upon individual factors including education, qualifications, and experience. 
 
Existing SECRET Security Clearance Required: This position requires an existing active or interim Secret security clearance prior to hire. Only U.S. citizens are eligible for a security clearance; therefore, only current U.S. citizens will be considered for this position.
 
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: 
  • At least fifteen (15) years of supervisory experience in analyses, information system operations, and implementation of technical projects relevant to RATT.
  • Extensive Navy technical management experience on multiple ships.
  • Extensive experience as shipboard Engineering Officer of the Watch (EOOW) on multiple diesel ships.
  • Extensive experience (at least 2 tours) as Navy Diesel Engine Inspector with Navy surface ship maintenance processes.
  • At least fifteen (15) years of supervisory level watchstanding experience on warships or military auxiliaries with diesel engine propulsion systems as Engineering Officer of the Watch, Propulsion Plant Watch Officer, Chief Engineer, or equivalent responsible for overall propulsion plant operations and associated auxiliary systems.
  • Extensive experience conducting diesel inspections on surface warships or military auxiliaries.
  • Qualifications and certification as or equivalent to a U.S. Navy Diesel Engine Inspector.
  • Direct operational and maintenance experience, within the last five (5) years, with diesel main propulsion, diesel generators, associated control systems, and associated auxiliaries currently in use by the Navy.
  • Proficient with common productivity software including the Microsoft Office suite.
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks and support fast-paced operational environments. 
  • Excellent personnel management skills.
  • Excellent communication skills.
 
Additional Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:  
  • At least twenty-five (25) years of relevant experience is highly desirable.

Benefit Offerings: Along with competitive pay, THOR offers a comprehensive benefits package including:

  • Paid Time Off (accrued)
  • Paid Holidays
  • 401(k) with employer match and traditional/Roth options
  • Medical Insurance (3 plan options) + TRICARE Supplemental Coverage
  • Dental Insurance (2 plan options)
  • Vision Insurance Plan
  • Healthcare and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Commuter/Transit Benefits
  • Basic Life/AD&D, Short-Term and Long-Term Disability Insurance
  • Supplemental Life Insurance
  • Pet Benefits
  • Legal Resources
  • ID Theft Benefits
  • Employee Assistant Plan and Work-Life Program
  • Voluntary Leave Transfer Program
  • Tuition Reimbursement Program
  • Employee Referral Program

Please be aware that many of our positions require the ability to obtain a security clearance. Security clearances may only be granted to U.S. citizens.

Founded in 2009, THOR Solutions, LLC (THOR) is a rapidly growing Center for Veteran’s Excellence (CVE) verified Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) providing mission critical support across the Department of Defense, Department of Homeland Security, federal civilian agencies and commercial maritime industry, worldwide. THOR provides innovative and tailored expertise in multidisciplinary engineering, project and program management, business and financial management, technical support, integrated logistics support, training support, fleet support, corporate operations support, assessments and studies. THOR is privileged to deliver service solutions to the nation’s most complex military, public sector and industry challenges.

THOR is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. THOR considers all qualified applicants for employment without regard to legally protected characteristics. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment.

If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request a reasonable accommodation as part the employment selection process, please contact us at recruiting@thorsolutions.us or (571) 215-0077.

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