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Deckhand Salary Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Deckhand

Newport News, VA ยท On-site

$20.66 - $27.31/hr

Deckhands work aboard tugboats towing barges under the direction and supervision of the Captain and ... The anticipated salary range represents the estimated base pay for this role. Final compensation ...

Deckhand

Philadelphia, PA ยท On-site

$25 - $30/hr

POSITION SUMMARY: The Deckhand reports to the Captain and Mate as appropriate. SPECIFIC ... The final salary for this role will be determined based on careful consideration of a variety of ...

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Deckhand

Luling, LA ยท On-site

$22 - $27/hr

POSITION SUMMARY: The Deckhand reports to the Captain and Mate as appropriate. SPECIFIC ... The final salary for this role will be determined based on careful consideration of a variety of ...

Deckhand

Port Arthur, TX ยท On-site

$20 - $33.51/hr

POSITION SUMMARY: The Deckhand reports to the Captain and Mate as appropriate. SPECIFIC ... The final salary for this role will be determined based on careful consideration of a variety of ...

Deckhand

Baltimore, MD ยท On-site

$25 - $30/hr

POSITION SUMMARY: The Deckhand reports to the Captain and Mate as appropriate. SPECIFIC ... The final salary for this role will be determined based on careful consideration of a variety of ...

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Deckhand

Norfolk, VA ยท On-site

$22 - $24/hr

POSITION SUMMARY: The Deckhand reports to the Captain and Mate as appropriate. SPECIFIC ... The final salary for this role will be determined based on careful consideration of a variety of ...

Deckhand

Morehead City, NC ยท On-site

$18 - $23/hr

POSITION SUMMARY: The Deckhand reports to the Captain and Mate as appropriate. SPECIFIC ... The final salary for this role will be determined based on careful consideration of a variety of ...

Tugboat Deckhand Your New Company: YOUR COMPASS TO SUCCESS At Next Generation Logistics Companies ... Competitive salary DOE * Opportunity to grow with an industry leader * Great benefits plan * 401k ...

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Deckhand Salary information

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How much do deckhand salary jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for deckhand salary in the United States is $21.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the average salary of a deckhand?

The average salary of a deckhand varies depending on the type of vessel, location, and experience level. In the United States, deckhands typically earn between $25,000 and $45,000 per year, with entry-level positions on fishing boats or ferries starting at the lower end. Experienced deckhands on offshore or commercial vessels can earn higher salaries, sometimes supplemented by overtime or bonuses. Wages may also differ for deckhands working on private yachts or cruise ships.

What are some common challenges deckhands face during their daily work on a vessel?

Deckhands often encounter physically demanding tasks such as handling heavy equipment, working in adverse weather conditions, and maintaining the cleanliness and safety of the vessel. They must remain alert and responsive to rapidly changing situations, especially during docking or emergency procedures. Collaborating closely with other crew members and following strict safety protocols are essential aspects of the role. Adapting to long hours and potentially extended periods away from shore can also be a challenge for those new to the maritime industry.

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

To thrive as a Deckhand, you need physical fitness, basic seamanship skills, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with maritime safety protocols, deck equipment, and certifications like STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers) are typically required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and adaptability help Deckhands excel in the demanding and dynamic environment aboard vessels. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safe operations, vessel maintenance, and effective crew collaboration at sea.

What is the difference between Deckhand Salary vs Marine Engineer Salary?

AspectDeckhand SalaryMarine Engineer Salary
Required CredentialsSTCW Basic Safety Training, maritime certificationsSTCW certifications, engineering licenses
Work EnvironmentDeck of ships, offshore platformsEngine rooms, technical areas of ships
Employer & Industry UsageMaritime, shipping, offshore oil & gasMaritime, shipping, offshore oil & gas

While both Deckhands and Marine Engineers work in the maritime industry, Marine Engineers typically require additional technical certifications and work in engine rooms, earning higher salaries. Deckhands focus on deck operations and safety, with generally lower pay. Understanding these differences helps job seekers align their skills and salary expectations accordingly.

How much do deckhands make in Texas?

Deckhands in Texas typically earn between $25,000 and $45,000 annually, depending on experience, employer, and the specific maritime environment. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced deckhands working on larger vessels or with specialized skills can earn higher wages, often supplemented by overtime and tips.

Is being a deckhand a hard job?

Being a deckhand is physically demanding and often involves working long hours in outdoor conditions, including handling ropes, cleaning, and maintenance tasks. The job requires good physical fitness, teamwork, and safety awareness, especially when working on boats or ships. It can be challenging but is essential for vessel operations and safety.
More about Deckhand Salary jobs

What cities are hiring for Deckhand Salary jobs?

Cities with the most Deckhand Salary job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Deckhand Salary jobs?

The most popular types of Deckhand Salary jobs are:

What states have the most Deckhand Salary jobs?

States with the most job openings for Deckhand Salary jobs include:

Infographic showing various Deckhand Salary job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,879 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

$20.66 - $27.31/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 11 days ago


Job description

Pay: $20.66 - $27.31/Hourly
Per Diem: $120+/Daily
Location: Newport News, VA
Duration: 2+ Years
Background Check and Drug Test Required
U.S. Citizenship Required
Required Experience:
  • High school graduate or equivalent
  • Minimum of two years' experience on tugboats
  • Must have a specialized knowledge of local winds, current tides reading, and weather and shipping hazards.
  • Must possess strong communication, interpersonal and leadership skills
  • Must possess a thorough technical knowledge of the tug boats, and Ship movement, and have a solid educational base, generally gained through working as a Tug Boat Deck Hand

General Duties & Responsibilities:
Deckhands work aboard tugboats towing barges under the direction and supervision of the Captain and/or Mate. They perform a variety of hands-on physical duties, often on unstable marine platforms and in all kinds of inclement weather. Given the nature of the job, deckhands require strength, flexibility, dexterity, and balance to perform their functions safely. Deckhands are required to be capable of lifting and carrying a variety of equipment. They must be unrestricted in their capabilities to pull, push, climb and walk onboard tugs, barges and piers.
Duties that Deckhands are expected to perform are:
โ€ข Making sure all necessary towing gear is in good order, properly stowed, and ready for use.
โ€ข Making sure tug and barge equipment is in good operating condition.
โ€ข Making sure barges are moored safely along piers and ships
โ€ข Making sure all hatches are properly secured to prevent ingress of water.
โ€ข Knowing where all emergency equipment is located and ensuring first aid kit is fully stocked.
โ€ข Act as lookout during the navigation of a tug.
โ€ข Perform periodic checks of the engine room and including the bilges, fluid levels on main and auxiliary engines and gear boxes, and battery water levels.
โ€ข Keep all areas of the tug in a clean, organized, and safe condition.
โ€ข Take direction from the Captain or the Mate as required.
The anticipated salary range represents the estimated base pay for this role. Final compensation will be determined based on experience, qualifications, and other job-related factors, and may vary from the posted range