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Merchant Marine Officer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

A Merchant Marine Engineering Officer license. U.S. Coast Guard Master's License: A Merchant Marine Deck Officer license issued with restrictions on gross tonnage of the vessel (e.g 50 tons, 100 tons ...

A Merchant Marine Engineering Officer license. U.S. Coast Guard Master's License: A Merchant Marine Deck Officer license issued with restrictions on gross tonnage of the vessel (e.g. 50 tons, 100 ...

... in the Merchant Marine. The School provides a unique, experiential education that prepares ... Regimental Battalion Officers are the direct advisors and mentors to the cadet officers in their ...

... in the Merchant Marine. The School provides a unique, experiential education that prepares ... Regimental Battalion Officers are the direct advisors and mentors to the cadet officers in their ...

U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) Merchant Marine Third Assistant Engineer (unlimited) or higher with a ... USN or USCG Officer (03 or higher), Limited Duty Officer (LDO) or Chief Warrant Officer (CWO) with ...

U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) Merchant Marine Third Assistant Engineer (unlimited) or higher with a ... USN or USCG Officer (03 or higher), Limited Duty Officer (LDO) or Chief Warrant Officer (CWO) with ...

U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) Merchant Marine Third Assistant Engineer (unlimited) or higher with a ... USN or USCG Officer (03 or higher), Limited Duty Officer (LDO) or Chief Warrant Officer (CWO) with ...

U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) Merchant Marine Third Assistant Engineer (unlimited) or higher with a ... USN or USCG Officer (03 or higher), Limited Duty Officer (LDO) or Chief Warrant Officer (CWO) with ...

U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) Merchant Marine Third Assistant Engineer (unlimited) or higher with a ... USN or USCG Officer (03 or higher), Limited Duty Officer (LDO) or Chief Warrant Officer (CWO) with ...

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Merchant Marine Officer information

See salary details

$20.5K

$63.6K

$108.5K

How much do merchant marine officer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for merchant marine officer in the United States is $63,572.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,000.00 and $73,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Merchant Marine Officer?

A Merchant Marine Officer is a licensed professional who oversees the operation and navigation of commercial vessels, such as cargo ships, tankers, and passenger ships. They ensure the safe and efficient transport of goods and passengers across domestic and international waters. Duties vary by rank but typically include navigation, cargo management, ship maintenance, and crew supervision. Officers must meet U.S. Coast Guard licensing requirements and often attend maritime academies for training. The job involves extensive time at sea and requires strong leadership and problem-solving skills.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a Merchant Marine Officer?

To thrive as a Merchant Marine Officer, you need expertise in navigation, maritime operations, and vessel management, typically gained through a maritime academy degree and U.S. Coast Guard licensing. Familiarity with navigational systems (like ECDIS and GPS), radar, and safety equipment, along with valid STCW certifications, is critical. Strong leadership, teamwork, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities set exceptional officers apart. These skills ensure safe and efficient vessel operations, effective crew management, and compliance with maritime regulations.

What does a typical work schedule look like for a Merchant Marine Officer?

A Merchant Marine Officer’s schedule often involves working in shifts, commonly called watches, which can range from 4 to 8 hours on duty followed by a similar amount of rest. You may spend several weeks or months at sea before returning home for an extended break. The work is highly structured, with clear roles and responsibilities shared among officers and crew, and requires adaptability to changing weather, routes, and operational needs. While at sea, Merchant Marine Officers live aboard the vessel, collaborating closely with engineers, deckhands, and other officers to ensure the safe and efficient functioning of the ship.

How do you become a merchant marine officer?

To become a merchant marine officer, you typically need to complete a maritime academy or obtain a relevant degree, gain sea time through training programs, and earn necessary certifications such as the Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW). Licensing from the Coast Guard or relevant maritime authority is also required to operate as an officer onboard commercial vessels.

How much do merchant marine officers make?

Merchant marine officers typically earn between $70,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, rank, and the type of vessel. Salaries increase with certifications, such as STCW, and extended periods at sea often include additional compensation and benefits.
More about Merchant Marine Officer jobs

What cities are hiring for Merchant Marine Officer jobs?

Cities with the most Merchant Marine Officer job openings:

What states have the most Merchant Marine Officer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Merchant Marine Officer jobs include:

Infographic showing various Merchant Marine Officer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,572 per year, or $30.6 per hour.

Engine Officers

Chesapeake Crewing & Argent Marine Operations

West Palm Beach, FL • Remote

$19.25 - $26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Schuyler Line Navigation Company is seeking Engine Officers to join our team. We manage a fleet of seven of U.S. Flagged Vessels operating worldwide; details regarding our fleet can be found here: Our Fleet | Schuyler Line Navigation Company, LLC. Schuyler Line Navigation Company supports the US Merchant Marine, a cornerstone of the country's national defense, security and commercial trade. Schuyler Line's US flag operations support and value the role that the Merchant Marine will continue to play in responding to national defense, natural disasters, and similar emergencies. SLNC is an approved bidder for US Transportation Command and currently holds service contracts with them (USC 08). SLNC operates several short to medium charters for the United States Transportation Command (USTC), Surface Deployment and Distribution Command (SDDC), and Military Sealift Command (MSC). We are seeking experienced, safety-focused merchant mariners and Engine Officers with a proven background in deep-sea commercial vessel operations. Ideal candidates will hold the appropriate USCG credentials for their position (MMC, Med Cert, TWIC, Passport) and be members in good standing with a recognized maritime union (such as SIU, AMO, MMP, or MEBA). We value professionalism, teamwork, and a strong commitment to safety and regulatory compliance. About our vessels:All our vessels have private berths with their own bathrooms, crew lounges with video games, onboard gym, and an extensive onboard server (Starlink) with movies, and tv, for the crew and Engine Officer. About our benefits:The benefits package includes medical, legal, behavioral, life, retirement plans, pensions plans, Training, EAP, Dental, Vision, Accident, Vacation, along with company paid travel to and from the vessel.If you are looking for an opportunity to sail with a respected company that values its crews, we encourage you to apply.
Job Posted by ApplicantPro