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Merchant Marine No Experience Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Engle Martin and Associates, LLC.

WI · On-site

$75 - $110/hr

At least three years of prior experience in ocean marine surveying or related marine insurance work, or graduation from a maritime college with valid merchant marine licensure. * Prior experience ...

Engle Martin

Marine Surveyor - Houston, TX

Houston, TX · On-site

$60 - $90/hr

At least three years of prior experience in ocean marine surveying or other marine insurance-related work, or a graduate of a maritime college with valid merchant marine licensure* Prior experience ...

New

Military Sealift Command

MARINE SURVEYOR

Norfolk, VA

$75K - $98K/yr

Seagoing experience as a U.S. Coast Guard licensed marine engineer in the merchant marine. * For GS ... Education There is no educational substitution for a GS-0873-12. There is no educational ...

GovFirst

Ferry Crewmember

Surry, VA · On-site

High School Diploma or GED preferred; equivalent experience or training may be considered. * Required to obtain a Merchant Marine Credential (MMC) with AB or QMED endorsement within two (2) years of ...

GovFirst

Ferry Crewmember

Surry, VA

High School Diploma or GED preferred; equivalent experience or training may be considered. Required to obtain a Merchant Marine Credential (MMC) with AB or QMED endorsement within two (2) years of ...

Electronic Marine Systems

Field Service Engineer

Rahway, NJ · On-site

$60K - $125K/yr

Past military experience a plus such as Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, Merchant Marine a plus. Company Description We are a 47 yr old technology company. We manufacture automation for ships. We ...

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Merchant Marine No Experience information

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$11K

$38.5K

How much do merchant marine no experience jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for merchant marine no experience in the United States is $36,613.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,500.00 and $37,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a merchant marine with no experience?

Merchant Marine jobs with no experience are entry-level positions on commercial ships such as cargo vessels, tankers, and passenger ships. These roles, like Ordinary Seaman (OS) or Wiper, do not require previous maritime experience and serve as a starting point for a career at sea. Duties often include maintenance, cleaning, assisting with cargo operations, and supporting the crew. Entry-level workers receive on-the-job training and can advance to higher positions with experience and additional certifications.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a merchant marine with no prior experience?

To thrive as a Merchant Marine with no experience, you typically need a high school diploma or GED, physical fitness, and the ability to obtain entry-level credentials like the Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) and Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC). Familiarity with basic safety training, shipboard operations, and maritime regulations is gained through completing the required Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW) courses. Strong work ethic, teamwork, adaptability, and effective communication are vital soft skills for working in challenging, confined environments at sea. These qualifications and skills ensure safety, regulatory compliance, and smooth vessel operations, especially for those new to the maritime industry.

What can I expect from the training and onboarding process when starting as a merchant marine with no prior experience?

When starting as a Merchant Marine without previous experience, you can expect to undergo structured training that covers essential safety procedures, maritime regulations, and basic shipboard duties. Most entry-level positions require completion of the Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW) Basic Safety Training, which includes both classroom instruction and hands-on drills. Onboard, you'll typically be mentored by experienced crew members and gradually take on more responsibilities as you build your skills. The work environment is highly collaborative, and teamwork is key to daily operations, so you'll quickly become familiar with the routines and expectations of life at sea.

What is the difference between Merchant Marine No Experience vs Merchant Marine Deckhand?

AspectMerchant Marine No ExperienceMerchant Marine Deckhand
Required CertificationsBasic STCW certifications, no prior experience neededSTCW certifications, some maritime experience preferred
Work EnvironmentEntry-level, onboard ships, training providedOnboard ships, hands-on work, more responsibility
Employer & Industry UsageFamiliar for newcomers, entry point into maritime industryExperienced role, stepping stone to higher deck roles

Merchant Marine No Experience positions are designed for newcomers with minimal or no prior maritime background, often providing training and certifications on the job. Merchant Marine Deckhands typically require some experience or certifications but serve as a more hands-on role on ships. Both roles operate in similar environments onboard vessels, but Deckhands carry more responsibilities. The No Experience role is ideal for those starting their maritime career, while Deckhands are for those seeking to advance within the industry.

Is it hard to get a job in Merchant Marine?

Getting a job in the Merchant Marine can be competitive and often requires relevant certifications such as STCW and maritime training. Entry-level positions may be available with minimal experience, but advancing typically involves gaining sea time and additional qualifications.

What disqualifies you from being a Merchant Marine?

Disqualifications for becoming a Merchant Marine include having a criminal record, failing medical examinations, or not meeting age and physical fitness requirements. Additionally, applicants must pass background checks and obtain necessary certifications such as a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC).

What is the easiest job to start at with no experience in the merchant marine?

The entry-level position of Ordinary Seaman (OS) is often the easiest to start with no experience in the merchant marine. It typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent and may involve completing basic safety training such as STCW certification. This role provides on-the-job training and is a common starting point for those new to maritime work.
More about Merchant Marine No Experience jobs

What cities are hiring for Merchant Marine No Experience jobs?

Cities with the most Merchant Marine No Experience job openings:

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

The most popular types of Merchant Marine jobs are:

What states have the most Merchant Marine No Experience jobs?

States with the most job openings for Merchant Marine No Experience jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Merchant Marine No Experience jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Merchant Marine No Experience jobs are:

Merchant Marine No Experience jobs near you
Infographic showing various Merchant Marine No Experience job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 88% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,613 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

Assistant Merchant-Marine Electronics

Bass Pro Shops

Springfield, MO • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 24 days ago

Bass Pro Shops rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 439 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 39 rated national retailers

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY:
The Assistant Merchant I is a category-specific cross-functional role that supports the Merchandiser in all aspects of category planning and execution to achieve company goals. This role assists the Merchant with product assortment selection, proprietary product development, pricing, space and assortment planning, promotions and advertisements, sales and inventory data review. This position requires strong analytical, communication and personal skills and end-user experience with product category merchandise preferred i.e. apparel, hunting or fishing. This role exposes team member to all aspects of Merchant team role and offers development of a wide variety of skills.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
  • Assists the merchant in the preparation of financial plans and business strategy.
  • Analyzes historical data, current trends, and competitor pricing to identify opportunities, forecast sales and inventory to develop strategies to maximize opportunity and mitigate risks.
  • Communicates effectively with cross-functional teams and vendor partners.
  • Balances workload priorities to ensure successful execution of business initiatives.
  • Assists in the development of Proprietary Product, identifying market trends, and developing product and price structures
  • Assists Merchant and Product Development team with product specifications, sourcing, forecasting, and marketing strategy.
  • ALL OTHER DUTIES AS ASSIGNED.

EXPERIENCE/QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Minimum Degree Required: High School Diploma or equivalent
  • Preferred Degree: Bachelor's Degree in Business, Marketing, Supply Chain, Product Development, Merchandising
  • Years of experience: 0 - 1 year

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITY:
  • Excellent interpersonal communication, organizational, and time management skills.
  • Strong analytical ability, able to analyze data to make sound business decisions.
  • Ability to maintain and build effective relationships with cross-functional team and peers.
  • Strong problem solving and critical thinking skills.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Less than 5%

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
  • Regular computer work and sitting
  • Occasional walking and standing
  • Seldom lifting-up to 50lbs

INDEPENDENT JUDGEMENT:
  • Performs tasks and duties under direct supervision, using well-defined policies and procedures. Work is reviewed by supervisor. Limited opportunity exists for exercising independent judgment and decision making.

Full Time Benefits Summary:
Enjoy discounts on retail merchandise, our restaurants, world-class resorts and conservation attractions!
  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Health Savings Account
  • Flexible Spending Account
  • Voluntary benefits
  • 401k Retirement Savings
  • Paid holidays
  • Paid vacation
  • Paid sick time
  • Bass Pro Cares Fund
  • And more!

Bass Pro Shops is an equal opportunity employer. Hiring decisions are administered without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law.
Reasonable Accommodations
Qualified individuals with known disabilities may be entitled to reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act and certain state or local laws.
If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application process, please visit your nearest location or contact us at hrcompliance@basspro.com.
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