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Merchant Marine Officer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 Jul 17, 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 does a Merchant Marine officer do?

A Merchant Marine officer is responsible for the navigation, safety, and operation of ships engaged in commercial transportation. They oversee cargo handling, ensure compliance with maritime regulations, and maintain communication and safety systems onboard. Certification and training in navigation, safety procedures, and ship management are essential for this role.

What disqualifies you from being a Merchant Marine?

Disqualifications for becoming a Merchant Marine Officer typically include a criminal record, certain medical conditions that impair physical or mental ability, and a failure to meet age or educational requirements. Additionally, candidates must pass background checks, drug tests, and physical examinations, and must obtain necessary certifications and licenses such as the Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW).

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.

Can a merchant seaman make over $100,000?

Merchant Marine Officers can earn over $100,000 annually, especially with experience, advanced certifications, and working on large vessels or in specialized roles such as chief mate or captain. Salaries vary based on the vessel type, route, and union agreements, with some senior officers earning higher compensation due to extended contracts and offshore assignments.

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 can increase with certifications, specialized skills, and longer voyages, often accompanied by benefits like housing and travel allowances.

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

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 is a Merchant Marine Officer job?

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.

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:
What job categories do people searching Merchant Marine Officer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Merchant Marine Officer jobs are:
Infographic showing various Merchant Marine Officer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $63,572 per year, or $30.6 per hour.
Ferry Boat Captain (Seasonal)

Ferry Boat Captain (Seasonal)

Town of Greenwich, CT

Greenwich, CT • On-site

$30 - $38/hr

Temporary

Re-posted 27 days ago


Job description

Salary: $30.00 - $38.00 Hourly
Location : 101 Field Point Road, Greenwich, CT
Job Type: Temporary/Seasonal
Job Number: 25-26-00224
Department: PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT
Division: Parks and Rec Harbors and Boating
Opening Date: 02/20/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
General Statement of Duties
Performs skilled work involving the operation of town owned ferry vessels. Responsible for the safety of the passengers and the protection of the vessels. Involves considerable skill and knowledge of seamanship for proper operation and to guard against damage, injury or loss of life through accidents. Responsible for the general upkeep of boat engines and equipment.
Position reports to the Ferry Captain, Marine and Facilities Operation Division.
Qualifications
Must possess a valid Department of Transportation, United States Coast Guard, U.S. Merchant Marine Officer License to operate as Master of Inspected Passenger Motor Vessels of 100 Gross Registered Tons (Domestic) upon Inland Waters. Must also possess a Federal Communication Commission Marine Radio Operator Permit and a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC card).
*Applicants possessing a License of 25 or 50 Gross Registered Tons (Domestic) upon Inland Waters without restrictions will be considered based on operational need.
Job Description
ESSENTIAL FEATURES:
Pilots ferries carrying passengers, supplies and materials. and makes all scheduled landings in a safe manner.
Assumes the role of Vessel Security Officer when serving as master of subchapter K vessels in the fleet in accordance with the Vessel Security Plan.
Checks vessel, floats, gangways and dock areas for safety and cleanliness; loads supplies and water; inspects the condition of engines and vessel equipment.
Participates in preparing vessels for summer use; prepares and paints surfaces; loads life preservers and other safety equipment and performs all other work incidental to putting the vessel in first class condition.
Assists in engine repairs and overhaul; assists in replacing plumbing, exhaust piping, and marine wiring.
May assist in the maintenance and repair work on landing floats, docks, structures and other Parks and Recreation facilities, as directed, when the vessel is not in operation.
Performs related work as required.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
Thorough knowledge of and the ability to follow the rules and regulations of the United States Coast Guard, Federal Communications Commission and the State of Connecticut Department of Public Safety, Division of Homeland Security.
Considerable knowledge of seamanship, vessel operation and handling.
Considerable knowledge of all pertinent regulations of the United States Coast Guard regarding type "T" and "K" passenger ferries.
Knowledge of navigation hazards and weather conditions in Long Island Sound.
Knowledge of maintenance and repair needs of vessels, marine engines and auxiliary equipment.
Considerable knowledge of the needs and uses of standard safety equipment for vessels and ability to provide and direct the use of such equipment in emergencies.
Skilled in piloting and navigating vesselsunder varying weather conditions andability to respond quickly and reasonably in emergencies.
Ability to supervise subordinates in the care and operation of vessel equipment.
Ability to deal tactfully and courteously with the general public.
Ability to maintain accurate daily records, ship's log, record keeping, etc.
Ability to operates passenger vessel up to 100 gross tons. Operate marine auxiliary equipment. Operate machines, power tools, and equipment used in several of the building and marine trades and two way radio system.
Ability to perform the physical aspects of the position including, heavy lifting, 100 lbs. occasionally, 50 lbs. frequently, 20 lbs constantly, 7 hours a day. Remaining at helm of vessel up to 12 hours a day. Pushing, pulling, carrying, climbing. Boarding and unboarding vessels, docks and floats. Enter and work in tight vessel compartments.
Ability to swim.
Supplemental Information
All outside candidates will be required to undertake and successfully pass a pre-employment medical examination, which includes a substance abuse test that includes testing for THC (the psychoactive ingredient in marijuana), given at the Town's expense prior to employment if conditionally offered a part time, full time or safety sensitive position.
Candidates hired into unrepresented positions are not eligible for benefit coverage.
01
Do you possess a valid Department of Transportation, United States Coast Guard, U.S. Merchant Marine Officer License to operate as Master of Inspected Passenger Motor Vessels of 100 Gross Registered Tons (Domestic) upon Inland Waters?
  • Yes
  • No

02
If you answered no to question above, do you possess a License of 25 or 50 Gross Registered Tons (Domestic) upon Inland Waters without restrictions?
  • Yes
  • No
  • Not Applicable

03
Do you possess a Federal Communication Commission Marine Radio Operator Permit and a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC card)?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question