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Merchant Mariner Entry Level Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Interlake Steamship Company

2nd Cook

Cleveland, OH · On-site

$17.25 - $21.25/hr

The 'General Purpose Maintenance - Galley' crewmember may be either an experienced or entry level ... H.) on a Merchant Mariner Credential. Direct Supervisor - Chief Steward Primary Responsibilities

Lake Michigan Carferry

Galley Utility - LMC

Ludington, MI · On-site

$14/hr

This position is the perfect entry-level position! Room for advancement, either within the galley ... Galley is required to hold or have the ability to obtain a USCG Merchant Mariner Credential and a ...

Tt

Marine Vice President

New York, NY

$155K - $200K/yr

You will be supported by a multidisciplinary team ranging from entry-level engineers to senior ... Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) or U.S. Coast Guard license also valued. * Ability towritereports ...

Bowhead

QMED/Wiper

Panama City, FL · On-site

$21.25 - $26.25/hr

Bowhead Marine Support Services seeks an entry level QMED/Wiper for shipboard positions at Tyndall ... Current Merchant Mariners Document with the Ordinary Seaman/Wiper/Oiler rating and a minimum of one ...

Bowhead

Wiper

Panama City, FL · On-site

$18.50 - $23/hr

Bowhead Marine Support Services seeks an entry level Wiper for shipboard positions at Tyndall Air ... Current Merchant Mariners Document with the Ordinary Seaman/Wiper/Oiler rating and a minimum of one ...

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Merchant Mariner Entry Level information

What is a Merchant Mariner Entry Level job?

A Merchant Mariner Entry Level job involves working on commercial vessels such as cargo ships, tankers, or tugboats, assisting with deck operations, maintenance, and safety procedures. Responsibilities typically include cleaning, securing cargo, standing watch, and helping with navigation and engine room tasks. Entry-level positions, like Ordinary Seaman or Wiper, require a Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) and basic safety training. This role is a starting point for a maritime career with opportunities for advancement through experience and licensing.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Merchant Mariner Entry Level position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Merchant Mariner Entry Level, you need basic seamanship skills, physical fitness, and a high school diploma, along with a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) and Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC). Familiarity with shipboard safety procedures, deck operations, and basic navigation or engine room tools is highly beneficial. Strong teamwork, adaptability, and effective communication are key soft skills for those entering this demanding environment. These skills and qualifications ensure safety, efficiency, and smooth operations while living and working aboard commercial vessels.

How much do entry level merchant mariner make?

Entry-level merchant mariners typically earn between $30,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on the vessel type, location, and certifications held. Starting salaries can increase with experience, additional certifications, and specialized skills such as navigation or safety procedures.

What types of schedules and living arrangements should I expect as an entry-level merchant mariner?

Entry-level merchant mariners typically work in shifts, often known as 'watches,' which can include nights, weekends, and extended periods at sea lasting several weeks or months. While on board, you will live in shared quarters with fellow crew members and have access to communal dining and recreation areas. It's common to experience a unique camaraderie as you work closely with a small, diverse team under varying weather and working conditions. Adjusting to life at sea, including limited personal space and extended time away from home, is one of the main challenges of the role, but it also offers the chance to travel internationally and build valuable maritime experience for career advancement.

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Merchant Mariner Entry Level jobs near you
Infographic showing various Merchant Mariner Entry Level job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Locum Tenens, 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.
2nd Cook

2nd Cook

Interlake Steamship Company

Cleveland, OH • On-site

$17.25 - $21.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Job Summary:

The ‘General Purpose Maintenance – Galley’ crewmember may be either an experienced or entry level position assisting the Chief Steward in all aspects of Galley Department operations. This can include meal preparation, cleaning/sanitation, stocking, rotation, light hotel services, and oversight of vessel guests.

The ‘General Purpose Maintenance’ crewmember may work in either the deck, engine, or galley department as appropriate. This position requires an endorsement as Ordinary Seaman and Food Handler (F.H.) on a Merchant Mariner Credential.

Direct Supervisor – Chief Steward

Primary Responsibilities:

Second Cook (and Porter as applicable):

  • Assist in the preparation of daily meals, night lunch, and salad bar
  • Manage bakery needs of the galley department
  • Assist with cleaning/sanitation of all Galley spaces
  • Assist with stocking and rotation of galley provisions and consumables
  • Oversee light hotel services (i.e. Captain quarters, guest quarters, and linen management)
  • Oversee guest/owner spaces for cleaning and stocking
  • Oversee company guests aboard vessels to ensure safety and comfort
  • Any other duties as requested by the Chief Steward
  • Respond in accordance with the duties listed on the Station Bill

Credential, License / Endorsement, and Certificate Requirements:

  • Valid U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC)
  • Valid U.S. Coast Guard Medical Certificate
  • Valid U.S. DOT Transportation Workers Identification Credential (TWIC)
  • Endorsement of U.S. Coast Guard as Ordinary Seaman AND Food Handler (F.H.)
  • Certificate of completion for First Aid / CPR / AED course
  • Certificate of completion for Servsafe (Food Handler)
  • Minimum 5-year company (or Union) physical noting “Fit for Duty” status