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Entry Level Merchant Marine Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

MP RPO

Service & Pro Shop Coordinator

Clermont, FL · On-site

$21 - $22/hr

This is an entry-level position with room to grow into a more advanced service advisor or service ... Help stock, price, organize, and display merchandise. * Monitor inventory and notify management ...

MP RPO

Service & Pro Shop Coordinator

Clermont, FL · On-site

$21 - $22/hr

This is an entry-level position with room to grow into a more advanced service advisor or service ... Help stock, price, organize, and display merchandise.Monitor inventory and notify management when ...

Bowhead

QMED/Wiper

Panama City, FL · On-site

$225.98/day

Bowhead Marine Support Services seeks an entry level QMED/Wiper for shipboard positions at Tyndall ... Current Merchant Mariners Document with the Ordinary Seaman/Wiper/Oiler rating and a minimum of one ...

Bowhead

QMED/Wiper

Panama City, FL · On-site

$225.98/hr

Bowhead Marine Support Services seeks an entry level QMED/Wiper for shipboard positions at Tyndall ... Current Merchant Mariners Document with the Ordinary Seaman/Wiper/Oiler rating and a minimum of one ...

All JobsMerchant Marine JobsEntry Level Merchant Marine JobsEntry Level Merchant Marine Jobs in Florida

Entry Level Merchant Marine information

See Florida salary details

$11

$13

$15

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

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level merchant marine in Florida is $13.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.74 and $14.57 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level merchant marine?

Entry level merchant marines are individuals who work in the maritime industry, typically starting in positions such as Ordinary Seaman (OS) or Wiper, aboard commercial ships like cargo vessels, tankers, or passenger ships. Their responsibilities often include basic maintenance, cleaning, assisting with cargo operations, and supporting the ship's crew. These positions are a starting point for a seafaring career and require individuals to complete specific safety and training courses before joining a vessel. With experience and further certifications, entry level merchant marines can advance to higher ranks and specialized roles within the industry.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an entry level merchant marine?

To thrive as an Entry Level Merchant Marine, you typically need a high school diploma, a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC), and a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with relevant endorsements. Familiarity with marine safety equipment, shipboard operations, and basic navigation tools is essential. Strong teamwork, adaptability, and the ability to follow instructions are standout soft skills in this field. These skills and qualifications are crucial for ensuring safety, efficient vessel operations, and effective collaboration at sea.

What challenges do new entry level merchant marines face during their first assignments?

New entry level merchant mariners often encounter challenges such as adapting to life at sea, which includes long periods away from home, working in shifts around the clock, and adjusting to living and working in close quarters with a diverse crew. Learning shipboard routines, safety protocols, and performing physically demanding tasks under varying weather conditions are also common hurdles. However, support from experienced crew members and structured onboard training programs help new hires develop their skills and confidence over time.

What is the difference between Entry Level Merchant Marine vs Entry Level Deckhand?

AspectEntry Level Merchant MarineEntry Level Deckhand
CertificationsSTCW Basic Safety, USCG License (if applicable)STCW Basic Safety, USCG License (if applicable)
Work EnvironmentCommercial ships, cargo vessels, tankersCommercial ships, cargo vessels, tankers
Industry UsageMaritime shipping, freight transportMaritime shipping, freight transport
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist navigation, cargo handling, safety proceduresMaintain deck, assist with cargo, safety checks

Both Entry Level Merchant Marine and Entry Level Deckhand roles require similar certifications and work in the maritime shipping industry. The main difference lies in scope: Merchant Marine roles often encompass broader responsibilities including navigation and safety, while Deckhands focus on deck maintenance and cargo handling. Both positions serve as entry points into the maritime industry, offering opportunities for career advancement.

How do you become an entry level merchant marine with no experience?

To become an entry-level merchant marine, applicants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, complete basic safety training such as the Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW), and obtain necessary certifications like a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC). Prior maritime experience is not required, but physical fitness and the ability to work in a team environment are important. Entry-level positions often involve on-the-job training onboard ships or at maritime academies.

Is it hard to get a job in entry level merchant marine?

Securing an entry-level merchant marine position can be competitive, but opportunities are available for those with a high school diploma or equivalent, and some roles require basic safety training and certifications such as STCW. Gaining relevant skills, completing required training, and obtaining necessary licenses can improve chances of employment in this field.

What are entry level merchant marine jobs?

Entry level merchant marine jobs typically include positions such as deckhand, ordinary seaman, or engine room assistant, which involve assisting with ship operations, maintenance, and safety procedures. These roles often require basic safety training, such as STCW certification, and provide opportunities to gain experience at sea while working on cargo ships, tankers, or passenger vessels.

What are the most commonly searched types of Merchant Marine jobs in Florida?

The most popular types of Merchant Marine jobs in Florida are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Merchant Marine jobs in Florida?

For Entry Level Merchant Marine jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Merchant Marine jobs in Florida look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Merchant Marine jobs in Florida are:

What cities in Florida are hiring for Entry Level Merchant Marine jobs?

Cities in Florida with the most Entry Level Merchant Marine job openings:

Entry Level Merchant Marine jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Merchant Marine job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $28,397 per year, or $13.7 per hour.

Service & Pro Shop Coordinator

MP RPO

Clermont, FL • On-site

$21 - $22/hr

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Service & Pro Shop Coordinator/Sales Assistant
We are looking for a friendly, organized, and dependable Service & Pro Shop Coordinator to assist customers and support the daily operations of our dealership. This is an entry-level position with room to grow into a more advanced service advisor or service writer role.
The ideal candidate is comfortable speaking with customers, answering phones, learning computer systems, and helping customers select boating and watersports products.
Primary Responsibilities
Service Department Support
  • Greet and check in customers dropping off boats for service.
  • Enter customer, boat, and service information into the dealership system.
  • Gather basic information about service concerns and communicate it clearly to the service team.
  • Make follow-up calls regarding service updates, approvals, scheduling, and completed work.
  • Help schedule service appointments and coordinate boat drop-offs and pickups.
  • Check customers out when service work is completed and collect payments.
  • Work closely with service advisors, technicians, and other departments to keep customers informed.

This position will begin with basic service-writing responsibilities and gradually grow to include additional duties, incentives, and increased compensation as experience and product knowledge develop.
Customer Service and Front Counter
  • Answer incoming phone calls and direct customers to the appropriate department.
  • Respond professionally to basic customer questions.
  • Take accurate messages and ensure calls are returned promptly.
  • Greet customers entering the dealership and help determine who they need to speak with.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and welcoming front counter and customer area.

Pro Shop and Retail Sales
  • Assist customers with wake surf boards, wakeboards, life jackets, ropes, boating accessories, apparel, and other pro shop merchandise.
  • Help customers choose the proper product, size, and fit based on their needs.
  • Learn the features and differences between the products we carry.
  • Ring up purchases, process payments, and provide receipts.
  • Help stock, price, organize, and display merchandise.
  • Monitor inventory and notify management when products need to be reordered.
  • Keep the pro shop clean, organized, and ready for customers.

Sales Support
  • Assist customers when the sales team is unavailable or out on a demonstration.
  • Show customers boats on the showroom floor and provide basic information.
  • Collect the customer's name, contact information, and details about what they are looking for.
  • Pass all customer information and questions to the sales team for follow-up.
  • Help ensure every customer is greeted and assisted while waiting for a salesperson.

Qualifications
  • Friendly, professional, and comfortable working directly with customers.
  • Strong communication and phone skills.
  • Organized and able to manage multiple tasks at once.
  • Comfortable learning dealership software and point-of-sale systems.
  • Basic computer and data-entry skills.
  • Reliable, punctual, and willing to take initiative.
  • Able to handle customer concerns calmly and professionally.
  • Interest in boats, wake surfing, watersports, or outdoor recreation is preferred but not required.
  • Previous customer service, retail, receptionist, or service department experience is helpful but not required.
  • Must be willing to learn boating products, accessories, and basic service terminology.

We are looking for someone who enjoys helping people and is willing to learn. The right candidate does not need extensive marine or service-writing experience. We are willing to train someone with a positive attitude who communicates well, stays organized, and wants to grow within the boating and marine industry.

Apply