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Entry Level Seaman Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Entry Level Seaman information

See California salary details

$21

$32

$47

How much do entry level seaman jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level seaman in California is $32.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.87 and $37.02 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level seaman?

An Entry Level Seaman, also known as an Ordinary Seaman (OS), is a beginner position in the maritime industry. Their primary duties include assisting with ship maintenance, cleaning, cargo handling, and following orders from senior crew members. They work under the supervision of more experienced seafarers to gain skills and knowledge needed for career advancement. This role serves as a stepping stone toward becoming an Able Seaman or other higher-ranking positions at sea. It requires physical endurance, teamwork, and adherence to safety protocols.

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

Entry Level Seamen are responsible for a range of tasks such as cleaning and maintaining the ship, assisting with cargo operations, handling mooring lines, and supporting more senior crew members during navigation and emergency drills. The work environment can be physically demanding and involves spending extended periods at sea, often in close quarters with your team. Teamwork is essential, as you will be collaborating with deck officers, engineers, and other crew members to ensure smooth operations. Over time, successful seamen can be promoted to higher-ranking positions like Able Seaman or Bosun, gaining greater responsibility and technical expertise.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level seaman?

To thrive as an Entry Level Seaman, you need basic seamanship skills, physical fitness, and at least a high school diploma or GED. Familiarity with shipboard equipment, safety protocols, and sometimes completion of the STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping) course are typically required. Strong teamwork, adaptability, and a willingness to learn are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills ensure safety, efficient operations onboard, and open paths for career advancement in the maritime industry.

What are the most commonly searched types of Seaman jobs in California?

The most popular types of Seaman jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Seaman jobs in California?

For Entry Level Seaman jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Entry Level Seaman jobs?

Cities in California with the most Entry Level Seaman job openings:

Entry Level Seaman jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Seaman job openings in California 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 $68,572 per year, or $33 per hour.

Foss Dredge Deckhand/Engineer - Richmond, CA

Foss Maritime

Richmond, CA • On-site

$41.26/hr

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

The Deckhand/Engineer is responsible under the direction of the Captain and Leverman to assist in the safe and efficient operation and maintenance of the dredge and associated machinery and equipment.  The Deckhand/Engineer is responsible for monitoring and tending barge equipment during loads and offloads to include line-handling, operating machinery + conveyor belts, and engine room rounds. During down time the Deckhand/Engineer will assist maintaining equipment to include deck preservation, fabrication, and machinery repair.  This is an entry level position with opportunities for advancement.

Minimum Qualifications: 
  • Organizational and communication skills for effective teamwork.
  • Ability to think through unexpected events effectively.
  • Ambition, creativity, resolve, common sense and good judgment for effective problem solving.
  • Administrative skills to maintain records and inventories.
  • Basic computer literacy.
  • Must join the Inland Boatmen’s Union within 30 days of hire.
  • Valid driver’s license from State of residence.
  • Valid Merchant Mariner Document (MMD) with Ordinary Seaman endorsement (OS)
  • Valid Transportation Worker Identification Card (TWIC)
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Commercial maritime experience, to include line handling and seamanship.
  • Welding/fabrication experience, pipe-fitting.
  • Aptitude for operating machinery, previous experience with heavy machinery.
  • Basic Hydraulics
  • Basic Electrical
  • Basic Mechanics
  • Basic Rigging
Compensation:

Pay for this position is $41.2582 per hour. 

How to Apply:

Ready to set sail with Foss? Submit your application via our careers page. If you need any assistance, please reach out to fossjobs@foss.com. We look forward to welcoming you aboard.

Drug Free Workplace:

Foss Maritime Company LLC is a Drug Free Workplace where post offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

Foss Maritime Company LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.

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