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Merchant Mariner Entry Level Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Foss Maritime

Dredge Deckhand/Engineer

Richmond, CA · On-site

This is an entry level position with opportunities for advancement. Minimum Qualifications ... Valid Merchant Mariner Document (MMD) with Ordinary Seaman endorsement (OS) * Valid Transportation ...

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Merchant Mariner Entry Level information

What is a merchant mariner entry level?

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 as a merchant mariner entry level?

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.

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.

How much does an entry-level merchant mariner make?

An entry-level merchant mariner typically earns 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 training.

How to become a merchant mariner entry level with no experience?

To become an entry-level merchant mariner with no experience, applicants typically need to complete a maritime training program such as the Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW), and obtain necessary certifications like Basic Safety Training. Some employers offer on-the-job training or apprenticeships, and a valid medical certificate and physical fitness are also required for licensing and employment onboard vessels.

What are the most commonly searched types of Merchant Mariner jobs in California?

The most popular types of Merchant Mariner jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Merchant Mariner Entry Level jobs in California?

For Merchant Mariner Entry Level jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Merchant Mariner Entry Level jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Merchant Mariner Entry Level jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Merchant Mariner Entry Level jobs?

Cities in California with the most Merchant Mariner Entry Level job openings:

Merchant Mariner Entry Level jobs near you
Infographic showing various Merchant Mariner Entry Level job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Dredge Deckhand/Engineer

Foss Maritime

Richmond, CA • On-site

Other

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Job Description:

The Deckhand/Engineer is responsible under the direction of the Captain and Leverman to assist in the safe and efficient operation and maintenance of the dredge and associated machinery and equipment. The Deckhand/Engineer is responsible for monitoring and tending barge equipment during loads and offloads to include line-handling, operating machinery + conveyor belts, and engine room rounds. During down time the Deckhand/Engineer will assist maintaining equipment to include deck preservation, fabrication, and machinery repair. This is an entry level position with opportunities for advancement.


Minimum Qualifications:

  • Organizational and communication skills for effective teamwork.
  • Ability to think through unexpected events effectively.
  • Ambition, creativity, resolve, common sense and good judgment for effective problem solving.
  • Administrative skills to maintain records and inventories.
  • Basic computer literacy.
  • Must join the Inland Boatmen's Union within 30 days of hire.
  • Valid driver's license from State of residence.
  • Valid Merchant Mariner Document (MMD) with Ordinary Seaman endorsement (OS)
  • Valid Transportation Worker Identification Card (TWIC)

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Commercial maritime experience, to include line handling and seamanship.
  • Welding/fabrication experience, pipe-fitting.
  • Aptitude for operating machinery, previous experience with heavy machinery.
  • Basic Hydraulics
  • Basic Electrical
  • Basic Mechanics
  • Basic Rigging

How to Apply:

Ready to set sail with Foss? Submit your application via our careers page. If you need any assistance, please reach out to fossjobs@foss.com. We look forward to welcoming you aboard.

Drug Free Workplace:

Foss Maritime Company LLC is a Drug Free Workplace where post offer applicants and employees are subject to testing for marijuana, cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, PCP, and alcohol when criteria is met as outlined in our policies.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

Foss Maritime Company LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.


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