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Entry Level Marine Transportation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

American Staffing Solutions

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Military veteran job opportunities

San Diego, CA · On-site

$20 - $40/hr

... entry-level personnel for multiple positions in the marine shipyard industry. We are seeking ... Reliable transportation and strong work ethic. We Offer: * Competitive Pay * Overtime Opportunities

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Loader / Dock Operator

Norco, LA · On-site

Chemical Plant Loader / Dock Operator PSC Group is now hiring full time, entry level Chemical Plant ... marine transportation providers. • The work we do makes a huge impact in our nation's economy.

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Entry Level Marine Transportation information

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$58

How much do entry level marine transportation jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level marine transportation in the United States is $27.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $34.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level professionals in marine transportation, and how can they effectively overcome them?

Entry-level roles in marine transportation often involve adapting to irregular schedules, long periods at sea, and varying weather conditions, which can be physically and mentally demanding. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as much of the work happens in close quarters with diverse crew members. To overcome these challenges, new hires should focus on building strong relationships, maintaining a positive attitude, and staying proactive about learning safety protocols and operational procedures. Seeking mentorship from experienced colleagues and taking advantage of training opportunities can also help accelerate professional growth and adjustment to the maritime environment.

What is the difference between Entry Level Marine Transportation vs Entry Level Marine Engineering?

AspectEntry Level Marine TransportationEntry Level Marine Engineering
Required CertificationsMerchant Mariner Credential (MMC), STCW Basic SafetySTCW Basic Safety, Marine Engineering Certifications
Work EnvironmentDeck, cargo handling, navigation on shipsEngine rooms, machinery operation, maintenance
Industry UsageShipping companies, freight carriersShipbuilding, maintenance, engine operation

Entry Level Marine Transportation focuses on navigation, cargo handling, and deck operations, while Entry Level Marine Engineering emphasizes machinery, engine maintenance, and technical systems. Both roles require safety certifications and are essential in maritime industries, but they differ in daily tasks and technical focus.

What is an entry level marine transportation job?

Entry level marine transportation jobs are positions that allow individuals to begin a career in the maritime industry, often with little or no prior experience. These roles typically include duties such as deckhand, ordinary seaman, or marine oiler, and involve tasks like maintaining the vessel, assisting with navigation, and ensuring cargo safety. Most entry level positions require basic safety training and may offer on-the-job learning or apprenticeships. Working in marine transportation can lead to advancement into more specialized or higher-ranking roles over time. This field offers opportunities on a variety of vessels, including cargo ships, ferries, and tugboats.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level marine transportation professional?

To thrive in Entry Level Marine Transportation, you need basic seamanship, navigation awareness, and safety training, often supported by a high school diploma and completion of STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping) certification. Familiarity with marine communication systems, deck equipment, and safety protocols is typically required. Strong teamwork, attention to detail, and the ability to follow instructions help individuals excel in this fast-paced and safety-critical environment. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safe vessel operations, compliance with regulations, and effective collaboration onboard.
More about Entry Level Marine Transportation jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Marine Transportation jobs? The most popular types of Marine Transportation jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Marine Transportation jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Marine Transportation jobs are:
Entry Level Marine Transportation jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Marine Transportation job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,953 per year, or $27.9 per hour.

Assistant Marine Electrician - Puerto Rico Ferry - Shipyard

Hornblower

San Juan, PR • On-site

$23.50 - $29.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago

Hornblower rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 9 rated cruise lines

Job description

Hornblower Group is a global leader in experience and transportation. Spanning a 100-year history, Hornblower Group's portfolio of international offerings includes water- and land-based experiences and ferry and transportation services. City Experiences, Hornblower Group's premier experience division, offers dining and sightseeing cruises and walking and food tours through the City Cruises, Walks, and Devour brands. City Ferry, part of Hornblower Group's Ferry and Transportation Division, is the largest private operator of high-speed passenger and vehicle ferries in the United States, carrying more than 10 million passengers annually and operating services including NYC Ferry, Puerto Rico Ferry, and other regional ferry systemsHornblower Group's subsidiaries include Hornblower Marine, which provides vessel outhaul and maintenance services at Bridgeport Boatworks in Bridgeport, Connecticut, and Seaward Services, Inc., a full-service shipping, waterfront logistics and management company that specializes in the operation and maintenance of government and commercial vessels. Additionally, Anchor Operating System, LLC, a Hornblower Group subsidiary and independent entity, provides reservation, ticketing and website integration services for clients in the transportation, tourism and entertainment industries. Today, Hornblower Group's global portfolio covers over 10 countries, over 50 U.S. cities and serves more than 20 million guests annually. Headquartered in Orlando, Florida, Hornblower Group's additional corporate offices reside in San Francisco, California; Boston, Massachusetts; Chicago, Illinois; London, United Kingdom; New York, New York; Dublin, Ireland; and across Ontario, Canada. For more information, visit hornblowercorp.com.
Position Summary:
The Assistant Marine Electrician supports the HMS Ferries Puerto Rico Engineering Department by assisting in the installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of electrical systems onboard company vessels. This position works under the supervision of Marine Electricians and Engineering leadership to ensure vessels remain compliant with USCG Subchapter T/K regulations, OMA contract requirements, and HMS PR operational standards.
The Assistant Marine Electrician will develop skills in AC/DC distribution, marine generators, switchboards, control systems, PLCs, automation, navigation electronics, and vessel auxiliary systems. This entry-level role is ideal for a technician seeking to grow into a full Marine Electrician position within the organization.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Assist Marine Electricians in performing preventive and corrective maintenance on vessel electrical systems, including generators, breakers, switchboards, batteries, chargers, transformers, motors, and wiring.
  • Support troubleshooting of AC/DC systems ranging from 12V DC to 480V three-phase marine power distribution.
  • Assist in diagnosing and repairing propulsion-related electrical systems such as MTU genset controls, Hamilton/MJP waterjet controls, and Cox 300 diesel outboard electronics.
  • Help maintain automation and PLC-based vessel control systems under supervision.
  • Support installation of wiring, conduits, cable trays, raceways, and marine-rated electrical components according to USCG and ABYC standards.
  • Assist in troubleshooting and maintenance of navigation electronics, communication systems, fuel monitoring panels, bilge alarms, and fire detection systems.
  • Read and interpret basic electrical schematics, technical diagrams, and blueprints with guidance.
  • Assist with documentation in HELM, including maintenance notes, part usage, and work completion.
  • Support dry-dock electrical operations including inspections, equipment removal, cable pulling, and testing activities.
  • Follow OSHA lockout/tagout procedures and HMS PR safety protocols at all times.
  • Assist in wiring removal, system upgrades, and equipment replacements during overhauls.
  • Work safely in confined spaces, aloft, and in marine environments with high corrosion exposure.
  • Support shop operations including tool management, cable preparation, fabrication tasks, and maintaining a clean workspace.
  • Cooperate with Port Engineers, vessel crews, and other departments during electrical maintenance activities.
  • Maintain compliance with USCG standards, NEC codes, and HMS PR Engineering procedures.
  • Conduct yourself with a positive, professional attitude and support a safe working environment.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by Engineering leadership.
  • Remain true to and champion the Company's RESPECT Values and Code of Conduct.
  • Additional job duties as assigned.

Requirements & Qualifications:
  • 1-2 years of experience in electrical work; marine electrical experience preferred but not required.
  • Formal electrician training or enrollment in a technical program preferred.
  • Basic understanding of electrical concepts including AC/DC circuits, breakers, panels, and wiring methods.
  • Ability to use basic electrical tools, multimeters, and testing equipment under supervision.
  • Willingness to learn marine electrical systems including generators, switchboards, PLCs, alarms, and navigation electronics.
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds, climb ladders, work aloft, and enter confined spaces.
  • Ability to work in hot, humid, and corrosive marine environments.
  • Must pass all USCG-mandated drug and alcohol testing requirements.
  • Strong teamwork, communication skills, and willingness to follow instructions.
  • Valid driver's license and ability to travel between operational sites.

The RESPECT Service System embodies our mission, vision, values and operating principles. By creating a company culture that puts RESPECT at its core, we believe it will drive us to achieve our goal of becoming a Global Experiences and Transportation Leader.
EEO / Disabled / Protected Veteran Employer. Hornblower is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We offer equal employment opportunities to all qualified individuals and prohibit discrimination and/or harassment of any type, including but not limited to discrimination and or harassment based upon race, religion, religious creed, color, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, pregnancy or relation medical conditions, childbirth, breastfeeding, parental status, veteran and/or military status, disability (physical or mental), medical condition, genetic information or characteristics, political affiliation, domestic violence survivor status, marital status, or other characteristics prohibited by federal, state, or local law. Additionally, as a federal, state, and local contractor, Hornblower complies with government regulations, including affirmative action responsibilities for qualified individuals, where and as they apply. The company also participates in the E-Verify program in certain locations.

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