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Merchant Seaman Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Yulista

Able Bodied Seaman

Panama City, FL

Able Seaman stand as a lookout for the navigational watch and complete engineering rounds while ... Merchant Mariner Credential * National Able Seafarer (AB) Special Deck Rating. * Must be able to ...

Yulista

Able Bodied Seaman

Panama City, FL · On-site

Able Seaman stand as a lookout for the navigational watch and complete engineering rounds while ... Merchant Mariner Credential * National Able Seafarer (AB) Special Deck Rating. * Must be able to ...

Metson Group

Ordinary Seaman

Key West, FL · On-site

Merchant Mariner's Document required. Minimum 2 years general work experience related to the maritime field or, 6 months experience in deck positions. Physical Demands: Moderate. Please refer to the ...

ssc

Able Bodied Seaman - Marine

Philadelphia, PA

USCG Merchant Mariner Credential with the following endorsements: * International and national ... Able Bodied Seaman Unlimited, * Lifeboatman * Tankerman Assistant limited to Dangerous Liquid (DL ...

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Merchant Seaman information

What are some typical challenges faced by Merchant Seamen while working at sea?

Merchant Seamen often face challenges such as long periods away from home, adapting to different time zones, and living in close quarters with crew members from diverse backgrounds. The job can involve physically demanding work, changing weather conditions, and the need to maintain strict safety protocols at all times. Additionally, adjusting to a rotational work schedule and handling the isolation of extended voyages can be demanding. However, many find that the global travel experience, camaraderie among crew, and opportunities for career advancement make the career rewarding.

How much can a merchant seaman make?

A merchant seaman's salary varies based on experience, rank, and the type of vessel, but typically ranges from $2,000 to $8,000 per month. Higher-ranking officers and those with specialized skills or certifications can earn significantly more, especially on long voyages or with additional allowances for overtime and hazardous conditions.

What is a Merchant Seaman job?

A Merchant Seaman is a professional mariner who works on commercial vessels that transport goods, passengers, or perform specialized maritime services. They can work on cargo ships, tankers, ferries, or offshore supply vessels. Their duties vary by position but may include navigation, engine maintenance, cargo handling, and ship upkeep. Merchant Seamen are essential to global trade and often spend weeks or months at sea. They must meet training and certification requirements set by maritime authorities.

Do merchant mariners get paid well?

Merchant seamen typically earn competitive wages that vary based on experience, rank, and the type of vessel. Salaries can range from around $30,000 to over $100,000 annually, with additional benefits such as overtime pay, housing, and travel allowances. Certifications like STCW and specialized skills can also influence earning potential.

What do you do as a merchant seaman?

A merchant seaman operates and maintains ships that transport goods and passengers across waterways. They perform tasks such as navigation, cargo handling, maintenance, and safety procedures, often working in shifts on ships that can last several weeks or months. Certification and training in maritime safety and operations are typically required for this role.

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

To thrive as a Merchant Seaman, you need strong seamanship skills, a basic understanding of maritime operations, and must hold required certifications such as STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping) and a valid seafarer’s medical certificate. Familiarity with navigational equipment, safety gear, and shipboard systems is crucial for daily duties. Teamwork, adaptability, and effective communication are valuable soft skills for working efficiently in confined quarters and diverse crews. These competencies ensure safety, operational effectiveness, and smooth collaboration aboard vessels on extended voyages.

Can a merchant seaman make over $100,000?

Merchant seamen can earn over $100,000 annually, especially with experience, specialized skills, and certifications such as STCW. High-paying positions are often found on large cargo ships, tankers, or cruise ships, and include roles like captain or chief engineer, which typically require extensive experience and advanced licenses.
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Merchant Seaman jobs near you
Infographic showing various Merchant Seaman job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Part Time. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution.

Able Seaman- Summer Seasonal

Cook Inlet Tug & Barge

Anchorage, AK

Temporary

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

Able Seaman (AB)

Seasonal Opportunity | Cook Inlet Tug & Barge

Season Dates: 2026 Summer Season

Season: May-October

Location: Alaska

Sign-On Bonus Available Set Sail on an Alaska Maritime Adventure

If you’re an experienced Able Seaman looking for meaningful, hands-on work in some of the most rugged and spectacular waters in the world, this is your call to the deck.

Cook Inlet Tug & Barge—Alaska’s premier tug and barge operator—is seeking skilled Able Seamen (ABs) for the upcoming season. This is an opportunity to work alongside seasoned mariners, support essential marine operations across Southcentral and Western Alaska, and be part of a team that takes pride in doing demanding work safely and professionally.

This role is ideal for mariners who value adventure, teamwork, and a strong safety culture—and who want a seasonal schedule that delivers real experience and real impact.

Why Join Cook Inlet Tug & Barge?

Work That Matters
Our crews support critical maritime logistics in remote Alaskan waters—this is not routine coastal sailing. Every voyage counts.

Adventure Built In
Experience Alaska from the deck of a working tug—remote ports, challenging conditions, and unforgettable scenery included.

Seasonal Structure
A defined season (four to eight months) allows you to focus fully on the work, then recharge or pursue other opportunities in the off-season.

Crew-First Safety Culture
Health and safety are not slogans here—they’re expectations, reinforced daily by leadership and crew alike.

The Role: Able Seaman (AB)

As an Able Seaman, you are a key member of the vessel crew, responsible for keeping the tug and barge in a constant state of readiness while supporting safe, efficient operations.

Working under the direction of the Captain, you will:

  • Make up and manage single and multiple barge tows
  • Provide clear direction, distance signals, and situational awareness to crew
  • Maintain deck safety by keeping all lines and gear properly stowed
  • Perform vessel inspections, cleaning, and routine maintenance
  • Operate and work around deck equipment, including winches, capstans, peaveys, pike poles, pumps, and articulated loaders
  • Support daily crew needs, including meal preparation and supply stocking
  • Uphold company policies, procedures, and maritime industry safety standards at all times

You are an integral part of the onboard safety culture and play a direct role in protecting your fellow crew members, the vessel, and the operation.

Required Qualifications
  • Valid USCG Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) with Able Seaman (AB) endorsement
  • Valid Transportation Worker Identification Card (TWIC)
  • Valid United States Passport
  • Ability to pass a criminal background check and meet requirements for entry into Canada
  • Valid driver’s license
  • High School Diploma or equivalent
  • Must be eligible to work in the United States
Working Conditions & Physical Requirements
  • Lodging and meals provided onboard the vessel
  • Company-provided transportation to and from the vessel
  • Must be physically capable of:
    • Boarding tugs and barges
    • Ascending and descending ladders
    • Balancing and working safely in a seaway
    • Kneeling, stooping, reaching overhead, and standing for extended periods
  • Comfortable working at heights and on narrow walkways
  • Ability to work 12-hour days, every day, for the full season
  • Regular exposure to all weather conditions, including rain, wind, snow, ice, and heat
How to Apply

Submit your application today at:
https://www.cookinlettug.com/careers

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
Cook Inlet Tug & Barge is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to building a diverse workforce. We take affirmative action to employ and advance qualified women, minorities, individuals with disabilities, and protected veterans. We are a drug-free workplace and participate in the E-Verify Employment Verification Program.

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