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Merchant Marine Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Candidate(s) selected for the Marine Oiler position through this posting will be hired on a ... The license or Merchant Mariner's Document with endorsement must be maintained for the duration of ...

Marine Oiler

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Candidate(s) selected for the Marine Oiler position through this posting will be hired on a ... The license or Merchant Mariner's Document with endorsement must be maintained for the duration of ...

Candidate(s) selected for the Marine Oiler position through this posting will be hired on a ... The license or Merchant Mariner's Document with endorsement must be maintained for the duration of ...

Candidate(s) selected for the Marine Oiler position through this posting will be hired on a ... The license or Merchant Mariner's Document with endorsement must be maintained for the duration of ...

Merchant Marine Academy * Military Class "A" or "C" Schools Security Clearance * Must be a U.S. Citizen and will be subject to a security investigation * Must be eligible to obtain and maintain a ...

Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with endorsement and medical certificate must be maintained for ... MARINE OILER(FERRY OPERATIONS) - 91547 Qualifications 1. Possession of a valid U.S. Coast Guard ...

Marine Oiler

Staten Island, NY · On-site

$80K - $90K/yr

Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with endorsement and medical certificate must be maintained for ... MARINE OILER(FERRY OPERATIONS) - 91547 Qualifications 1. Possession of a valid U.S. Coast Guard ...

Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with endorsement and medical certificate must be maintained for ... MARINE OILER(FERRY OPERATIONS) - 91547 Qualifications 1. Possession of a valid U.S. Coast Guard ...

Merchant Marine Academies, according to the BLS. States like Massachusetts, Michigan, New York, Maine and California also have merchant academies. Simulation devices are used in academies to ...

Desire past mechanical and electrical experience in a military, merchant marine or plant operations setting. * Education Required: High school diploma or equivalent; trade school or related ...

S. Coast Guard (USCG) Merchant Marine Third Assistant Engineer (unlimited) or higher with a minimum of two years sea time as a USCG licensed merchant marine engineer. License may be active or ...

S. Coast Guard (USCG) Merchant Marine Third Assistant Engineer (unlimited) or higher with a minimum of two years sea time as a USCG licensed merchant marine engineer. License may be active or ...

Desire past mechanical and electrical experience in a military, merchant marine or plant operations setting. * Education Required: High school diploma or equivalent; trade school or related ...

S. Coast Guard (USCG) Merchant Marine Third Assistant Engineer (unlimited) or higher with a minimum of two years sea time as a USCG licensed merchant marine engineer. License may be active or ...

S. Coast Guard (USCG) Merchant Marine Third Assistant Engineer (unlimited) or higher with a minimum of two years sea time as a USCG licensed merchant marine engineer. License may be active or ...

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Merchant Marine information

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$10

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How much do merchant marine jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Merchant Marine position, and why are they important?

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 is a Merchant Marine job?

A Merchant Marine job involves working on commercial ships that transport goods and passengers across domestic and international waters. Merchant mariners operate and maintain various types of vessels, including cargo ships, tankers, and passenger ships. They perform roles such as deck officers, engineers, and able seamen, ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the vessel. Unlike the Navy, the Merchant Marine is a civilian workforce that supports global trade and, in times of war, may assist military operations.

Can a merchant seaman make over $100,000?

Merchant seamen, especially those with advanced certifications and experience, can earn over $100,000 annually, particularly in senior roles such as chief mates or captains. High-paying positions often require extensive sea time, specialized skills, and the ability to work long schedules on ships or offshore platforms.

Is it hard to get into merchant marines?

Getting into the merchant marine can be competitive and requires meeting specific requirements such as age, physical fitness, and passing a drug test. Candidates often need to obtain relevant certifications like STCW and may benefit from prior maritime training or experience. The process involves applying through maritime academies or companies and completing training programs.

What exactly do the merchant marines do?

Merchant marines operate and maintain cargo ships, tankers, and other vessels that transport goods and materials across oceans and seas. They handle loading and unloading cargo, navigation, safety procedures, and ship maintenance, often working in challenging environments for extended periods. Certification and training in maritime safety and navigation are typically required for these roles.

What are the typical working conditions and schedule like for Merchant Mariners?

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.

How much do merchant marines get paid?

Merchant marines typically earn between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, rank, and the type of vessel. Entry-level positions often start around $40,000, with higher salaries for officers and those with specialized skills or certifications such as STCW or GMDSS. Pay can also include benefits like housing, travel allowances, and overtime pay due to the demanding nature of the job environment.
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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Part Time. 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.
Marine Oiler

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


City Of New York rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

527th of 700 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Job Description

***IMPORTANT NOTE: Candidate(s) selected for the Marine Oiler position through this posting will be hired on a provisional basis. To be considered for permanent employment in this role, provisional employees will need to take and pass the next civil service examination for Marine Oiler and obtain a list number issued by the NYC Department of Citywide Administrative Services. Please be aware that employees who do not take and pass the exam, may not be able to continue in the provisional position.***
The NYC Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) enriches the environment and protects public health for all New Yorkers by providing 1.1 billion gallons of high quality drinking water, managing wastewater and stormwater, and reducing air, noise, and hazardous materials pollution. DEP is the largest combined municipal water and wastewater utility in the country, with nearly 6,000 employees. DEP's water supply system is comprised of 19 reservoirs and 3 controlled lakes throughout the system's 2,000 square mile watershed that extends 125 miles north and west of the City.
The Bureau of Wastewater Treatment (BWT) is responsible for the operation and maintenance of all facilities related to the treatment of sewage within the five boroughs of the City. This includes 14 wastewater treatment plants, sludge dewatering facilities, collections facilities (pumping stations, combined sewer overflow retention facilities, regulators, tide gates, etc.), wastewater laboratories and harbor vessels.
Under direct supervision, the selected candidate will perform duties on DEP-operated vessels such as: assist in the maintenance and operations of marine propulsion and auxiliary equipment; clean and paint machinery spaces; maintain lube oil stores; assist on dock-handling mooring lines; operate sludge valves as directed; and perform other related tasks.
MARINE OILER - 91546

Qualifications

Candidates must possess one of the following issued by the United States Coast Guard: a valid Third Assistant Marine Engineer or higher license; or a valid Merchant Mariner's Document having any of the following endorsements: Junior Engineer, Qualified Member of the Engine Department (QMED), Marine Oiler, or Marine Fireman/Water Tender. The license or Merchant Mariner's Document with endorsement must be maintained for the duration of employment.

Additional Information

The City of New York is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.


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