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Entry Level Ordinary Seaman Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Interlake Steamship Company

2nd Cook

Middleburg Heights, OH · On-site

$17.25 - $21.25/hr

The 'General Purpose Maintenance - Galley' crewmember may be either an experienced or entry level ... This position requires an endorsement as Ordinary Seaman and Food Handler (F.H.) on a Merchant ...

State of Alaska

Boat Officer 2 (12-1921)

Juneau, AK · On-site

$32.90/hr

... Ordinary 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 ...

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 ...

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Entry Level Ordinary Seaman information

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$21

$33

$47

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

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level ordinary 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 is an entry level ordinary seaman?

An Entry Level Ordinary Seaman (OS) is a beginner position in the maritime industry, responsible for assisting with deck operations, maintenance, and general duties aboard a vessel. OS tasks include cleaning, painting, standing watch, and handling mooring lines. This role provides hands-on experience and is the first step toward advancing to higher positions like Able Seaman or Mate. It requires physical stamina, basic safety training, and compliance with maritime regulations. Many OS start their careers in commercial shipping, offshore industries, or fishing fleets.

What are the typical duties and work schedule for an entry level ordinary seaman?

Entry Level Ordinary Seamen are responsible for general maintenance, cleaning, and assisting the crew with tasks such as cargo handling and lookout watches. The role often involves shift work, with seamen working in rotations to ensure the vessel operates smoothly 24/7. Expect to work in varying weather conditions and spend extended periods at sea, which helps develop your skills and experience in real-world maritime operations. This hands-on experience opens the door to advancement opportunities, such as promotion to Able Seaman or other specialized maritime roles. You’ll typically work as part of a close-knit team, with guidance from experienced crew members to help you build your career.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the entry level ordinary seaman position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Ordinary Seaman, you need basic seamanship skills, physical fitness, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Certifications such as the STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping) and familiarity with safety equipment are typically required. Reliability, teamwork, and a willingness to learn are valuable soft skills for succeeding onboard. These skills are critical for ensuring safe, efficient vessel operations and for supporting the crew in a demanding maritime environment.

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Entry Level Ordinary Seaman jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Ordinary Seaman job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 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.

Ordinary Seaman

Cape Canaveral, FL

Victory Casino Cruises
201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Victory Casino Cruisesexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Ordinary Seaman-Full Time
Must have MMC, TWIC and Current Credentials of National Endorsement Near Coastal or higher.
LOCAL APPLICANTS REQUIRED
The Ordinary Seaman (OS) is a licensed member of the deck department of the cruise ship.This is the entry-level position in the department and the OS acts as an apprentice of the Able Seaman, learning the trade and gaining experience while working in order to progress to AB position after acquiring a sufficient amount of sea time and passing the required examination.
Reports to the Bosun (Boatswain)
- Greet customers and other assigned duties.
- Responsible for the routine maintenance of the decks, hull and superstructure of the ship - cleaning, painting, removing rust accumulations etc.
- Participates in ropes and lines handling during berthing and departing movement of the vessel.
- Cleans, maintains, and keeps in proper working condition emergency and lifesaving equipment.
- Participates in the launch and recovery of tenders, lifeboats and rescue boats.
- Undergoes on-the-job-training under the supervision of deck crew superiors - Able Seamen and the Bosun.
- Attends safety and lifeboat drills.
-Must live in close proximity to the vessel.
-Two 9-hour shifts available daily.
-Must be 18 years of age or older.
Victory Casino Cruises has a No Visible Tattoo Policy. For this position you must be cleared of all hand, face amp; neck tattoos.

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