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Entry Level Able Seaman Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... Seaman: this is an entry level Merchant Mariner document, requiring no experience and no examination. It does require a drug test and proof of citizenship Able Seaman grade: An able seaman is a ...

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Entry Level Able Seaman information

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$21

$33

$47

How much do entry level able seaman jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level able seaman in the United States is $33.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $26.20 and $37.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the duties and responsibilities of an entry level able seaman?

An entry level able seaman (AB) is responsible for a variety of tasks related to the operation and maintenance of a vessel. Their duties typically include handling lines and cables during docking or undocking, standing watch to look out for hazards, assisting with mooring operations, maintaining the cleanliness of the ship, and performing general maintenance such as painting and repairs. They may also help with loading and unloading cargo, and in emergency situations, assist with safety procedures and drills. The role requires physical stamina, attention to detail, and the ability to work as part of a team under the supervision of more experienced crew members.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level able seaman, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Able Seaman, you need basic seamanship knowledge, physical fitness, and a high school diploma (or equivalent), along with a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC). Familiarity with shipboard equipment, safety procedures, and navigation systems is typically required, and certifications like STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping) are important. Strong teamwork, effective communication, and a diligent work ethic help you excel in this role. These qualifications and skills ensure safe vessel operations, compliance with maritime regulations, and smooth collaboration with crew members at sea.

What is the difference between Entry Level Able Seaman vs Ordinary Seaman?

AspectEntry Level Able SeamanOrdinary Seaman
CertificationsSTCW Basic Safety Training, Basic Seaman CertificationSTCW Basic Safety Training, Basic Seaman Certification
Work EnvironmentDeck crew on ships, primarily cargo and passenger vesselsDeck crew on ships, primarily cargo and passenger vessels
Job ResponsibilitiesWatchkeeping, maintenance, cargo handlingWatchkeeping, maintenance, cargo handling
Industry UsageCommonly used in maritime industry for entry rolesCommonly used in maritime industry for entry roles

Both Entry Level Able Seaman and Ordinary Seaman roles involve similar duties, certifications, and work environments. The terms are often used interchangeably in the maritime industry, with no significant difference in responsibilities or qualifications for entry-level positions.

What cities are hiring for Entry Level Able Seaman jobs?

Cities with the most Entry Level Able Seaman job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Able Seaman jobs?

The most popular types of Able Seaman jobs are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Able Seaman jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Able Seaman jobs are:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Able Seaman job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,482 per year, or $33.4 per hour.

Unlicensed Able Seaman

Calista Brice Holding Company

Anchorage, AK • On-site

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Brice Marine LLCTemporary

JOB SUMMARY:

The Able Seaman is an entry-level deckhand of a cargo vessel with additional duties in the engine room. This position supports the deck department and may work as a watch stander and/or deck worker under the direction of licensed crew members. The Able Seaman will be responsible for maintaining and operating deck equipment onboard the vessel, mooring operations, and making/breaking tow. As knowledge increases and abilities become evident to other crew members, increasing levels of responsibility may be given.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

  • Assist with the loading, lashing, unlashing and discharge of cargo.
  • Clean the tug and barges.
  • Assist with the handling of fuel and freight.
  • Act as lookout and maintain watch on deck and in the engine room.
  • Assist the Chief Engineer when required.
  • Perform general maintenance, repair, sanitation and upkeep of material, equipment, and areas in the deck department.
  • Operate deck machinery, such as the windlass or winches while mooring or unmooring, and to operate cargo gear.
  • Perform the job in a safe and seamanlike manner in accordance with all company policies and procedures, and state and federal regulations, performing only functions and tasks for which he/she has been trained.
  • Follow the safety, company policy manual and other material provided by the company.
  • Work and live on vessel for extended periods of time
  • Work in a constant state of alertness and in a safe manner.
  • Perform other duties as directed.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

This position does not have supervisory responsibilities.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES:

  • Knowledge of equipment, policies, procedures to promote the safe and effective operations of a cargo vessel.
  • Knowledge of principles and methods for moving cargo by sea.
  • Advanced knowledge on appropriate use of the emergency equipment located on the boat.
  • Able to perform tasks and solve practical problems normally encountered by a deckhand, including knot selections, and tying, hazard avoidance, and safely responding to orders.
  • Able to use equipment necessary to perform tasks of deckhand.
  • Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions and procedure manuals.
  • Ability to be reliable, responsible, and dependable and able to fulfill obligations.
  • Ability to be careful about details and thorough in completing work tasks.
  • Ability to solve problems, make clear rational decisions in a crisis, and clearly formulate and communicate instruction, coupled with the ability to perform both short and long-term planning to accomplish vessel and company goals.
  • Ability to use logic and reasoning to identify strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
  • Ability to remain focused and aware of surroundings.
  • Work requires willingness to work a flexible schedule sometimes including weekends and holidays.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

  • High School Diploma or equivalent required.
  • One (1) year of Able Seaman or deckhand experience preferred.
  • Current MMC with AB endorsement preferred.
  • Basic Safety and Firefighting training preferred.
  • Current TWIC card preferred.
  • Must be able to pass and maintain a Coast Guard physical exam for merchant mariners.
  • Previous Alaska water navigation experience preferred.
  • Valid state driver's license and qualified to operate a vehicle under the conditions of the Company's Driving Policy preferred.
  • Ability to pass drug, driving, and background screenings.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Brice Marine has a fast-paced multi-tasking environment requiring a high degree of efficient and effective performance.

The length of navigation season in Western and Interior Alaska is dictated by the spring break-up of the ice and the low water and return of ice in late fall. The actual navigation season lasts approximately 180 days. Crews normally work the entire season, 7 days a week, 12 hours per day, without any time off other than vessel downtime. This work is not for everyone. It requires a commitment to be away from home for long periods of time which can be emotionally challenging. Requires a demeanor that can adapt to changing conditions and varying personalities with decorum and professionalism while in close quarters.

While underway, the deckhand works shifts of 12 hours at the direction of the Captain or Chief Mate.

For the full job description including physical and environmental demands please reach out to recruitment@calistabrice.com

PREFERENCE STATEMENT
Preference will be given to Calista shareholders and their descendants and to spouses of Calista shareholders, and to shareholders of other corporations created pursuant to the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act, in accordance with Title 43 U.S. Code 1626(g).

EEO STATEMENT
Additionally, it is our policy to select, place, train and promote the most qualified individuals based upon relevant factors such as work quality, attitude and experience, so as to provide equal employment opportunity for all employees in compliance with applicable local, state and federal laws and without regard to non-work related factors such as race, color, religion/creed, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, citizenship, genetic information, or other protected status. When applicable, our policy of non-discrimination applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including but not limited to, recruiting, hiring, training, transfer, promotion, placement, layoff, compensation, termination, reduction in force and benefits.
REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION
It is Calista and Subsidiaries' business philosophy and practice to provide reasonable accommodations, according to applicable state and federal laws, to all qualified individuals with physical or mental disabilities.
The statements contained in this job description are intended to describe the general content and requirements for performance of this job. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all job duties, responsibilities, and requirements.
This job description is not an employment agreement or contract. Management has the exclusive right to alter the scope of work within the framework of this job description at any time without prior notice.