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Entry Level Fish Processing Onboard Vessel Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Licensed Mate - Fishing Vessel

Seattle, WA ยท On-site

$120K - $145K/yr

We manage three trawl catcher-processor vessels that operate in the Bering Sea, Aleutian Islands ... Must have a minimum of 3 years of experience fishing onboard H&G vessels in Alaskan waters. Duties ...

Mate

Seattle, WA ยท On-site

$450 - $650/day

Our vessel operates as an at sea fish processing vessel taking over the side deliveries from catcher boats. Our factory produces fillet and surimi products for international and domestic markets.

We manage three trawl catcher-processor vessels that operate in the Bering Sea, Aleutian Islands ... Must have a minimum of 3 years of experience fishing onboard H&G vessels in Alaskan waters. Duties ...

Mate

Seattle, WA ยท On-site

$450 - $650/day

Our vessel operates as an at sea fish processing vessel taking over the side deliveries from catcher boats. Our factory produces fillet and surimi products for international and domestic markets.

Mate

Seattle, WA

$450 - $650/day

Our vessel operates as an at sea fish processing vessel taking over the side deliveries from catcher boats. Our factory produces fillet and surimi products for international and domestic markets.

... onboard the ship. * Type: Rotation style deployments * Location: Full-time assignment to the vessel ... At least four years of experience with radar or digital signal processing equipment * Experience ...

... onboard the ship. * Type: Rotation style deployments * Location: Full-time assignment to the vessel ... At least four years of experience with radar or digital signal processing equipment * Experience ...

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Entry Level Fish Processing Onboard Vessel information

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How much do entry level fish processing onboard vessel jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level fish processing onboard vessel in the United States is $25.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $29.57 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Fish Processing Onboard Vessel worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Fish Processing Onboard Vessel worker, you need physical stamina, basic food safety knowledge, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with processing equipment, safety gear, and adherence to HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point) standards are typically required. Attention to detail, teamwork, and a strong work ethic are important soft skills in this role. These skills ensure efficient production, product quality, and safety in the demanding environment of onboard seafood processing.

What is an Entry Level Fish Processing Onboard Vessel job?

An Entry Level Fish Processing Onboard Vessel job involves working on fishing boats or factory trawlers at sea, where employees help sort, clean, process, and package fish and seafood products. Workers typically perform tasks such as gutting, filleting, freezing, and packing fish while following strict hygiene and safety standards. These jobs are physically demanding, often requiring long hours and the ability to work in cold, wet, and sometimes rough conditions. Entry-level positions usually do not require previous experience, as training is provided on the job. This role is ideal for those seeking adventure, steady income, and the opportunity to travel while working.

How much do seafood processors get paid?

Entry-level fish processing onboard vessels typically earn between $3,000 and $6,000 per month, depending on the location, vessel size, and experience. Wages often include overtime pay, and workers may receive additional compensation for working in remote or challenging environments. Certifications in safety and handling can also influence pay rates.

How much do you get paid at fish processing jobs?

Entry-level fish processing onboard vessel jobs typically pay between $3,000 and $8,000 per month, depending on the season, experience, and specific role. Workers often earn higher wages during peak fishing seasons and may receive additional compensation for overtime and hazardous conditions.

What are the main challenges faced by entry-level fish processors working onboard vessels, and how can I prepare for them?

Entry-level fish processors onboard vessels often face challenges such as long working hours, physically demanding tasks, and adapting to living and working at sea for extended periods. The work environment can be fast-paced and requires attention to detail to maintain quality and safety standards. Preparing by building physical endurance, familiarizing yourself with basic seafood processing practices, and developing good teamwork skills will help you succeed in this unique environment. Being adaptable and open to feedback is also important, as the team relies on everyone working efficiently together.

Can I work on a cargo ship with no experience?

Entry level fish processing onboard vessel jobs typically require some basic physical fitness and willingness to learn safety procedures, but prior experience is not always necessary. Employers often provide on-the-job training, and certifications such as STCW may be required for safety compliance. Having relevant skills like teamwork and adaptability can improve your chances of employment.

How to get a job on a deadliest catch boat?

To work as an entry-level fish processing onboard vessel for a show like Deadliest Catch, candidates typically need prior experience in fishing or maritime work, physical fitness, and the ability to handle demanding conditions. Applying through fishing companies or crew agencies that supply workers for commercial fishing vessels is common, and obtaining relevant certifications such as STCW or safety training can improve chances. Networking within the fishing industry and demonstrating a strong work ethic are also important for securing a position.
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Infographic showing various Entry Level Fish Processing Onboard Vessel job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, and 60% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,986 per year, or $25.5 per hour.
Vessel Seafood Processor

Vessel Seafood Processor

Phoenix Processor Limited Partnership

Seattle, WA โ€ข On-site

$3.5K - $5.0K/mo

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Take the challenge- Join the Team!

***Currently hiring for at-sea processors to join our B Season now through September 2026**

Phoenix Processor Limited Partnership (PPLP) is seeking dedicated individuals to fill our seafood processor roles. This is your opportunity to kickstart an adventurous career aboard the M/V Excellence. If you are driven, have a strong work ethic and are ready to excel in a dynamic, fast-paced environment on a vessel, we invite you to submit your application.

Working aboard a processing vessel calls for a special kind of person as it presents various challenges, including long hours, extended time away from family and friends, shared living quarters, and unpredictable weather conditions. This demanding work environment requires not just physical strength but also mental and emotional resilience.

As a fish processor, your daily duties may include things such as: operating machines, roe/surimi/fishmeal/fillet production, prepping products for packing, working in a freezer hold stacking cases, placing/removing production onto and off freezer plates, loading/unloading vessel of product and supplies, operating a forklift, factory cleanup, etc.

Requirements

You must be able to:

  • Lift 50 pounds on a regular basis, repeatedly
  • Work 12โ€“16-hour shifts, 7 days a week in a fast-paced environment
  • Perform repetitive tasks that require standing, pushing, pulling, reaching, bending, squatting, kneeling, twisting, etc. for long periods of time
  • Work in a cold, damp environment
  • Ability to speak and read basic English as well as the ability to follow written, verbal, and visual instructions in English
  • Live and work aboard a vessel for up to 120 days with minimal communication with friends and family (there is Wi-Fi access available on board)
  • Capable of boarding and exiting the vessel independently, either by climbing a gangway or using a Jacobโ€™s ladder

Candidates should exhibit a strong level of physical fitness who can handle heavy items and tackle physically demanding tasks. This factory environment can be cold and wet, requiring endurance, frequent lifting, agility, long periods of standing, teamwork, and self-discipline. The factory operates 24 hours a day with production personnel assigned to shifts of 12-16 hours, seven days a week, throughout the duration of the contract. All team members must follow instructions and work together effectively. Basic English is essential for understanding safety and emergency protocols.


Please note that completion of a pre-employment drug test is required, along with participation in our random drug testing program as required by the US Coast Guard.

Benefits

You will earn an hourly wage, plus overtime pay, which will be paid twice a month. Additionally, upon completion of the season, you will receive a case rate bonus, which is paid 10 business days after the season has ended. Housing and meals are provided at no cost.

Starting Pay: $3,500.00 - $5,000.00 per month

Benefits:

  • Flexible schedule with day and night shifts available
  • Shipyard work between seasons based on availability
  • After one year of service:
    • 401(k) with Company match
    • Medical, dental and vision insurance

We are an equal employment opportunity employer.