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Merchant Marine Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Required to obtain a Merchant Marine Credential (MMC) with AB or QMED endorsement within two (2) years of hire. * Existing Merchant Marine credentials or endorsements are a plus. Required Work ...

Required to obtain a Merchant Marine Credential (MMC) with AB or QMED endorsement within two (2) years of hire. Existing Merchant Marine credentials or endorsements are a plus. Required Work ...

Experience in commercial marine operations such as merchant marine, fisheries, or boatyards * Demonstrated experience with coastal navigation, electronic navigation, and dead reckoning * Experience ...

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 ...

MATE TUG CLASS I

Detroit, MI · On-site +1

$48.44 - $56.50/hr

S. Coast Guard Merchant Marine Credential endorsements of: Master of towing vessels upon Great Lakes and inland waters (or equivalent). * Must have a current U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Marine ...

Merchant Marine Academy, Kings Point, NY 11024, United States. Job Type: Part time. Qualifications: * 2 years of professional experience in music education teaching high school or college and ...

Merchant Marine Academy, Kings Point, NY 11024, United States. Job Type: Part time. Qualifications: * 2 years of professional experience in music education teaching high school or college and ...

MATE TUG CLASS I

Detroit, MI · On-site +1

$48.44 - $56.50/hr

Coast Guard Merchant Marine Credential endorsements of: a Mate of Self-propelled vessels not including auxiliary sail of less than 500 gross register tons (GRT)upon Great Lakes and Inland Waters (or ...

Showing results 21-40

Merchant Marine information

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$10

$26

$38

How much do merchant marine jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for merchant marine in the United States is $26.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.36 and $31.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What skills and qualifications are needed to work as a merchant marine?

A Merchant Marine needs strong seamanship, navigation, and mechanical knowledge, often supported by completion of maritime academies and possession of relevant licenses such as those issued by the U.S. Coast Guard. Familiarity with shipboard machinery, navigation systems like ECDIS, and safety protocols is essential. Adaptability, teamwork, and problem-solving are valuable soft skills for thriving in the dynamic maritime environment. These competencies are crucial for ensuring safe operations, efficient voyages, and effective collaboration under challenging conditions at sea.

What are the typical working conditions and schedule like for merchant marines?

Merchant Mariners often work on ships for extended periods, typically following a rotational schedule such as several weeks or months at sea followed by time off. The work environment can be demanding, involving long shifts, confined living quarters, and exposure to varying weather conditions. Daily responsibilities include operating and maintaining the vessel, performing safety drills, and collaborating closely with other crew members to ensure smooth shipping operations. Despite these challenges, the role offers unique opportunities for travel, camaraderie, and career advancement within the maritime industry.

Is it hard to get a merchant marine job?

Getting a merchant marine job can be competitive and requires relevant certifications such as STCW and maritime training. Experience, physical fitness, and the ability to work long hours in challenging environments are also important factors in securing employment in this field.

What exactly do the merchant marine do?

The merchant marine is composed of civilian ships and personnel that transport goods, cargo, and passengers across international and domestic waters. They operate and maintain ships, often requiring certifications and training in navigation, safety, and seamanship, and work in various environments including ports and open seas.
More about Merchant Marine jobs

What cities are hiring for Merchant Marine jobs?

Cities with the most Merchant Marine 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 jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Merchant Marine job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,632 per year, or $26.7 per hour.

Ferry Crewmember

GovFirst

Surry, VA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday


Job description


Job Title: Ferry Crewmember
Location: Surry, VA 23883
Employment Type: Full-Time (W2)

GovFirst is seeking a reliable and safety-focused Ferry Crewmember to support ferry vessel operations. This role serves as a key member of the ferry boat crew, assisting with the safe loading and unloading of vehicles and passengers, maintaining vessel safety and security, and ensuring compliance with all U.S. Coast Guard and VDOT regulations.
Responsibilities:
  • Direct vehicles and passengers to the proper location with clearly understood signals during loading and unloading operations.
  • Ensure proper spacing between vehicles to maintain passenger and vessel safety.
  • Properly check and secure the first and last vehicles in each lane.
  • Provide information and assistance to passengers.
  • Properly handle vessel lines and assist with docking and undocking operations as required.
  • Stand lookout watch when assigned and remain alert during vessel operations.
  • Patrol vessel decks to ensure compliance with safety and health regulations.
  • Maintain awareness of security concerns and report suspicious behavior or violations immediately.
  • Perform security sweeps of the vessel between crossings to ensure all passenger access areas are clear before reloading.
  • Respond appropriately to emergency situations and assist in emergency response activities.
  • 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 orderliness of the vessel.

Requirements
Required Skills & Experience:
  • Experience performing manual labor using basic hand tools.
  • Experience participating in emergency response activities preferred.
  • Knowledge of seamanship, line handling, and basic marine terminology preferred.

Required Education & Credentials:
  • 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 hire.
  • Existing Merchant Marine credentials or endorsements are a plus.

Required Work Authorization:
  • US Citizenship.

Required Licensing & Background Check:
  • Valid driver's license required.
  • DMV records check required.
  • Pre-employment drug screening required.
  • Fingerprint-based Criminal History Records Check required.