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Independent Contractor Merchant Mariner Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Canal Barge Company

Shore Tankerman

Lemont, IL · On-site

$65K/yr

Shore Tankerman must be on-call and be able to travel independently. All applicants must have ... S. Merchant Mariner's endorsement as a PIC/DL, and must possess a current, valid TWIC I. Primary ...

Canal Barge Company

Shore Tankerman

Sulphur, LA

$58K/yr

Shore Tankerman must be on-call and be able to travel independently. All applicants must have ... S. Merchant Mariner's endorsement as a PIC/DL, and must possess a current, valid TWIC I. Primary ...

Canal Barge Company

Shore Tankerman

Joliet, IL · On-site

$24.75 - $28.75/hr

Shore Tankerman must be on-call and be able to travel independently. All applicants must have ... S. Merchant Mariner's endorsement as a PIC/DL, and must possess a current, valid TWIC I. Primary ...

Hornblower

Captain - Statue Cruises

Jersey City, NJ · On-site

$56.92/hr

Merchant Mariner Credential * Merchant Mariner Medical * CPR / First Aid Certification * U.S. Coast ... Additionally, as a federal, state, and local contractor, Hornblower complies with government ...

Canal Barge Company, Inc.

Shore Tankerman

Houston, TX · On-site

$62K/yr

Shore Tankerman must be on-call and be able to travel independently. All applicants must have ... S. Merchant Mariner's endorsement as a PIC/DL, and must possess a current, valid TWIC I. Primary ...

BallenIsles Country Club, Inc.

Be Seen First

Water Aerobics Instructors - Independent Contractor

Jupiter, FL · On-site

$60/hr

BallenIsles Country Club in Palm Beach Gardens, FL is currently hiring Independent Contractor Water ... Golf Merchandisers Platinum Award recipient, a Distinguished Club by Board Room Magazine and ...

New

LE001 Canal Barge Company, Inc.

Shore Tankerman

Houston, TX · On-site

$62K/yr

Shore Tankerman must be on-call and be able to travel independently. All applicants must have ... S. Merchant Mariner's endorsement as a PIC/DL, and must possess a current, valid TWIC I. Primary ...

ConocoPhillips

3rd Mate - Marine

Houston, TX · On-site

Who We Are We are one of the world's largest independent exploration and production companies ... Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) * Transportation Workers Identification Card (TWIC) * Currently ...

Canal Barge Company

Shore Tankerman

Houston, TX

$62K/yr

Shore Tankerman must be on-call and be able to travel independently. All applicants must have ... S. Merchant Mariner's endorsement as a PIC/DL, and must possess a current, valid TWIC I. Primary ...

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Independent Contractor Merchant Mariner information

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How much do independent contractor merchant mariner jobs pay per week?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average weekly pay for independent contractor merchant mariner in the United States is $1,089.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $721.15 and $1,211.54 per week, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an independent contractor merchant mariner?

Independent contractor merchant mariners are seafaring professionals who work on a contract basis rather than as full-time employees for a single shipping company. They may serve in various roles aboard commercial vessels, such as deck officers, engineers, or crew members, and are hired for specific voyages or periods. These mariners are responsible for managing their own contracts, taxes, and benefits, and they often have greater flexibility in choosing assignments. However, they also bear more responsibility for finding work and maintaining their certifications. Many independent contractor merchant mariners find opportunities through maritime staffing agencies or direct agreements with shipping companies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an independent contractor merchant mariner, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Independent Contractor Merchant Mariner, you need a thorough knowledge of maritime operations, navigation, safety protocols, and typically a valid Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with relevant endorsements. Familiarity with shipboard technology, radar systems, GPS navigation, and compliance with international maritime regulations is crucial. Strong problem-solving, adaptability, and teamwork skills help you excel in challenging environments and coordinate effectively with crew and clients. These competencies are vital to ensure the safe, efficient, and lawful movement of goods and personnel at sea.

What are some common challenges faced by independent contractor merchant mariners, and how can they be managed?

Independent contractor merchant mariners often face challenges such as irregular work schedules, extended periods away from home, and the need to secure their own contracts. Managing these challenges involves maintaining strong professional networks, staying updated with necessary certifications, and being adaptable to varying vessel types and routes. Additionally, independent contractors are responsible for their own benefits and insurance, so proactively managing finances and securing appropriate coverage is crucial for long-term stability.

What is the difference between Independent Contractor Merchant Mariner vs Crew Member?

AspectIndependent Contractor Merchant MarinerCrew Member
CredentialsSTCW certifications, Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC)Basic safety training, STCW certifications often required
Work EnvironmentOn ships, offshore, maritime industryOn ships, offshore, maritime industry
Employer UsageHired as independent contractor, self-employedEmployed directly or as part of crew, often by shipping companies
Search IntentContractor roles, maritime work, independent maritime jobsShip crew jobs, maritime employment, deck or engine crew

Independent Contractor Merchant Mariners work independently, often contracting directly with shipping companies, and typically hold specific maritime certifications. Crew Members are usually employed by shipping companies or agencies and perform onboard duties as part of a crew. Both roles operate in similar environments but differ in employment status and contractual arrangements.

How much does an independent contractor merchant mariner get paid?

Independent contractor merchant mariners' pay varies based on experience, vessel type, and voyage length, but they typically earn between $3,000 and $8,000 per month. Compensation often includes base pay, overtime, and per diem allowances, with additional earnings possible for specialized skills or certifications such as STCW or TWIC. Pay rates are negotiated individually or through contracts and can differ significantly depending on the employer and maritime sector.
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Independent Contractor Merchant Mariner jobs near you
Infographic showing various Independent Contractor Merchant Mariner job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,645 per year, or $27.2 per hour.

Shore Tankerman

Canal Barge Company

Lemont, IL • On-site

$65K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

CANAL BARGE COMPANY

JOB DESCRIPTION

SHORE TANKERMAN

*Chicagoland area.*

Canal Barge LLC Shore Tankermanare our internal experts in the transfer of liquid cargos. Qualified candidates must be safety conscious and able to work in a physically demanding environment. Shore Tankerman must be on-call and be able to travel independently. All applicants must have favorable work references and a valid driver's license and must pass a pre-employment physical examination and drug screen. Tankermen must hold a U.S. Merchant Mariner's endorsement as a PIC/DL, and must possess a current, valid TWIC

I. Primary Job Duties

  • Conduct transfers of liquid cargos

  • Follow all safety, environmental, and barge processes to conduct incident-free transfers

  • Conduct inspections of barges prior to conducting transfers

  • Perform minor maintenance and repair of barges and pumps as necessary

  • Inspect all safety and transfer equipment

  • Perform liaison role with customer dock personnel

  • Serve as first-line emergency responders

  • Physical requirements of the job include climbing ladders and stairs, repetitive bending and stooping, lifting heavy marine equipment, and lifting objects from various levels ranging from 10-100 pounds

II. Requirements

  • A valid Driver's License

  • A high school diploma or equivalency

  • Able to pass a background check

  • Able to pass a physical which includes a respirator fit test and requires candidate to be clean shaven

  • Must live in the Chicagoland area

Canal Barge Company and its subsidiaries are Equal Opportunity Employers - All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.

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