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Helmsman Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The helmsman executes turns and the lookout reports dangers such as approaching ships. These roles are often combined to a single helmsman/lookout and, under some circumstances, can be eliminated ...

The helmsman executes turns and the lookout reports dangers such as approaching ships. These roles are often combined to a single helmsman/lookout and, under some circumstances, can be eliminated ...

Serve as an emergency helmsman when trained and directed. Maintain cleanliness of assigned areas and ensure trash is removed regularly. Perform routine duties to maintain the safety, cleanliness, and ...

Serve as an emergency helmsman when trained and directed. * Maintain cleanliness of assigned areas and ensure trash is removed regularly. * Perform routine duties to maintain the safety, cleanliness ...

Serve as an emergency helmsman when trained and directed. * Maintain cleanliness of assigned areas and ensure trash is removed regularly. * Perform routine duties to maintain the safety, cleanliness ...

Serve as an emergency helmsman when trained and directed. * Maintain cleanliness of assigned areas and ensure trash is removed regularly. * Perform routine duties to maintain the safety, cleanliness ...

Act as lookout or helmsman. 17. Other duties as assigned. Requirements Preferred Qualifications: 1. Valid Merchant Mariner Credential with F/H endorsement 2. Valid TWIC 3. AB endorsement 4. Valid ...

Act as lookout or helmsman. 17. Other duties as assigned. Requirements: Preferred Qualifications: 1. Valid Merchant Mariner Credential with F/H endorsement 2. Valid TWIC 3. AB endorsement 4. Valid ...

Act as lookout or helmsman. 17. Other duties as assigned. Requirements Preferred Qualifications: 1. Valid Merchant Mariner Credential with F/H endorsement 2. Valid TWIC 3. AB endorsement 4. Valid ...

Stand watch, monitoring for safety and security concerns, and perform other watchkeeping duties such as look-out, Quartermaster Messenger, Radio Watch, Signal Man, or Helmsman as assigned by the ...

Key Responsibilities - Stand watch as helmsman, lookout, and Boatswain's Mate of the Watch - Operate small boats and support flight deck and amphibious operations - Repair and maintain deck equipment ...

Key Responsibilities - Stand watch as helmsman, lookout, and Boatswains Mate of the Watch - Operate small boats and support flight deck and amphibious operations - Repair and maintain deck equipment ...

Key Responsibilities - Stand watch as helmsman, lookout, and Boatswains Mate of the Watch - Operate small boats and support flight deck and amphibious operations - Repair and maintain deck equipment ...

Key Responsibilities - Stand watch as helmsman, lookout, and Boatswains Mate of the Watch - Operate small boats and support flight deck and amphibious operations - Repair and maintain deck equipment ...

Key Responsibilities - Stand watch as helmsman, lookout, and Boatswains Mate of the Watch - Operate small boats and support flight deck and amphibious operations - Repair and maintain deck equipment ...

Key Responsibilities - Stand watch as helmsman, lookout, and Boatswain's Mate of the Watch - Operate small boats and support flight deck and amphibious operations - Repair and maintain deck equipment ...

Key Responsibilities - Stand watch as helmsman, lookout, and Boatswains Mate of the Watch - Operate small boats and support flight deck and amphibious operations - Repair and maintain deck equipment ...

Key Responsibilities - Stand watch as helmsman, lookout, and Boatswain's Mate of the Watch - Operate small boats and support flight deck and amphibious operations - Repair and maintain deck equipment ...

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Helmsman information

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$8

$26

$61

How much do helmsman jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for helmsman in the United States is $26.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $30.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a helmsman?

A Helmsman is responsible for steering and navigating a vessel under the direction of the captain or officer on duty. They maintain the assigned course, adjust for changing sea conditions, and follow navigational charts and instruments. Helmsmen are typically found on ships, boats, and naval vessels, ensuring safe and efficient travel. Their duties also include assisting with lookout responsibilities and following maritime protocols. This role requires strong concentration, situational awareness, and knowledge of ship operations.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a helmsman on board a ship?

As a Helmsman, your daily responsibilities include steering the vessel according to orders from the ship's officer or captain, monitoring navigational instruments, and maintaining consistent communication with the bridge team. You may also assist with lookout duties, report hazards or obstacles, and help with basic maintenance during your watch. Work is typically done in shifts to ensure the vessel is always safely manned, and you’ll often collaborate closely with deck officers and other crew members. This role requires alertness and adaptability, as each voyage can present different weather and sea conditions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the helmsman position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Helmsman, you need strong navigation skills, an understanding of maritime operations, and often a relevant certification such as Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW). Helmsmen typically use navigational instruments, radar, GPS systems, and must be familiar with shipboard communication protocols. Excellent concentration, situational awareness, and the ability to follow instructions precisely are critical soft skills in this role. These skills ensure the safe and efficient steering of vessels, reduce risk, and support the overall success of maritime operations.

What are the most commonly searched types of Helmsman jobs?

The most popular types of Helmsman jobs are:

What states have the most Helmsman jobs?

States with the most job openings for Helmsman jobs include:

Infographic showing various Helmsman job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,791 per year, or $26.3 per hour.

$15.85 - $25.76/hr

Part-time

Posted 6 days ago


Virginia Department Of Transportation rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

597th of 853 rated public administrative organizations


Job description


Perform special duties as assigned. Serve as a member of a ferry boat crew adhering to all U.S. Coast Guard and VDOT regulations while representing VDOT in positive manner.
How you will contribute:
  • Loading and Unloading of Ferry : Direct vehicles and passengers to proper locations with clearly understood signals. Ensure proper spacing between vehicles. Allow safe egress of passengers. Property chock first and last vehicle in each lane. Provide information and assistance to passengers.
  • Perform duties as assigned. :
  • Vessel Operations : Properly handle lines as required. Correctly stand lookout watch when required. Properly patrol decks and ensure compliance with safety and health regulations. Ensure cleanliness of assigned areas and empty trash. Serve as Emergency Helmsman. Other duties as assigned to maintain the safety, cleanliness, and orderliness of the vessel.
  • Vessel Security and Emergency Response : During routine patrols of the vessel, be alert to security violations and suspicious behavior. Respond appropriately to emergency situations. Perform security sweep of vessel between unloading and loading to ensure passenger access areas are clear of passengers and vehicles at the end of each passage.

  • What will make you successful:
  • Ability to communicate with co-workers and the public.
  • Ability to participate in and perform emergency response activities.
  • Ability to perform manual labor.
  • Knowledge of seamanship, line handling and marine terminology.

  • Minimum Qualifications:
  • Ability to obtain and maintain Emergency Helmsman certification.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain Merchant Mariner Credential - endorsed as AB or QMED within two (2) years of date of hire.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain Transportation Worker Identification credential.
  • Experience communicating with co-workers and the public.
  • Experience participating in and performing emergency response activities.
  • Experience performing manual labor with a variety of hand tools.
  • Experience reflecting the knowledge of seamanship, line handling and marine terminology.
  • Valid driver's license.

  • Additional Considerations:
  • A combination of training, experience, or education in Watercraft Operations, or related field desired.
  • Emergency Helmsman Certification
  • Merchant Mariner Credentials any endorsement.
  • Transportation Worker Identification Credential

  • Click below to learn more about the Competency Model associated with this Position:
    Competency Model
    Physical Requirements
    Physical Requirements
    VDOT employees must abide by VDOTs Code of Ethics and the Commonwealths Standards of Conduct.
    VDOT Code of Ethics
    Standards of Conduct
    Qualifications
    Physical Requirements
    Physical Requirements

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